DM Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Lakewood, United States

5

Closed now

20 reviews

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Telephone:
+1 310-800-5878
Website:
www.dmbjj.com
Address:
5543 Woodruff Ave, Lakewood, CA, 90713
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
3.1 miLong Beach Transit
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Bussiness info

Good for Kids
Yes

Today

Today 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Closed now
Local time (Lakewood) 09:29 Monday, 23 June 2025

Business hours

Monday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tuesday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Wednesday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Thursday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Sunday –

Description

Specialties

DM Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) center is an official representative of the world famous, Machado Jiu-​Jitsu Association and is Bellflower’s only fully accredited Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu Academy, offering instruction by multiple certified USBJJF and IBJJF Black Belts. DMBJJ offers a comprehensive self-​defense program in the arts of Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu (BJJ), Submission Wrestling/​Grappling/​No-​Gi BJJ, Judo, Wrestling, Muay Thai, Boxing, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Womens Self Defense, and Fitness Classes.

Our goal at DMBJJ is to enhance our community and it’s citizens through the positive personal development a martial arts education provides. Our strong passion for our students encourages us to strive every day to exceed their expectations. We offer a clean and friendly environment, adult and children classes, 6 days a week schedule, professional and courteous staff, and world-​class instructors who are ready and willing to answer all of your questions.

History

Established in 2002.

Professor Dimitri Mavraganis is a 2nd Degree Black Belt under the world famous Rigan Machado.

During his Jiu-​Jitsu career Professor Dimitri has won multiple State, National, and Pan American titles as well as many other Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu titles. He remains the only competitor to win 2 championship belts in one NAGA tournament. He did this by dominating both the no-​gi expert division, and the brown and black belts in the expert Gi division! He also won the Joe Moriera 2008 Black Belt Challenge, and the 2008 North American Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu Tournament in the Heavyweight category. He has conducted BJJ seminars all over the USA and Europe and takes a special liking to teaching arrest and control seminars for the US Marshal’s, FBI, and Correctional Officers at the federal prison of Terminal Island, in Long Beach, CA. Professor Dimitri has also appeared in Tapout Magazine numerous from 2009 – 2012 to demonstrate his Brazilian Jiu-​Jitsu techniques.

Meet the Business Owner

Dimitri M.

Business Owner

He began training In his garage and more with Rogers brother Rigan Machado, once Roger moved his academy to a location that was too far to follow. In 2004 Dimitri also started training with Pan-​American champion Paulo Guillobel at a Machado affiliate academy near his home. Dimitri received his brown belt from Paulo Guillobel with both Roger and Rigans blessing. In 2005 Paulo received an opportunity to expand his academy and also began teaching at a location that was too far to follow. Dimitri then returned to the Machado Jiu-​Jitsu Academy in Torrance where he has been ever since. He received his black belt from Jiu-​Jitsu master Rigan Machado in early 2007 and now holds the rank of second degree black belt.

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20 reviews of DM Jiu-Jitsu Academy

No registration required
Place rating: 5
La Mirada, CA
I have been wanting to write this review for some time. Our daughter has been in the Monday & Wednesday little Spartans class for almost two years now, which is geared towards the fundamentals of Jiu-​Jitsu and implementing techniques against bullies. When we first started, the class was taught by Professor Dimitri and I believe that the class was no more than 8 kids. If you ever have the opportunity to be taught or have your child be taught by Professor, you will see that he has a true passion for Jiu-​Jitsu and his approach to teaching is excellent. Every once in awhile we have him as a sub when Coach Suzy is out and my daughter gets so excited.(it’s really cute)
Which brings me to another star in my daughters training. Coach Suzy. There truly isn’t enough good things to say about her. She was truly meant to teach little ones. She is patient, motivational, provides discipline and expectations. She explains techniques at a level for the children to really remember. She always gives 100% when she is with the kids. My daughter has learned so much from her and my husband and I feel so fortunate to have found this place for our daughter. The little Spartans class has really grown since we started and because of the people that teach it is only going to continue to grow.
Place rating: 5
Cypress, CA
This place hits home! My boyfriend and I were looking for a new school because we weren’t feeling challenged with the program they had at our old school… and we found Dmbjj. We love it! The ambiance is like that old school feel of training with your buddies in the garage with dope music; there’s ample people in each belt rank and man are there woman at this school. Everyone rolls uniquely in there own way… and I love it!
Place rating: 5
Bellflower, CA
I go to DM bjj academy and I think it is fun and always look forward to every Tuesday and Thursday I think any body who goes will have a fun time but still learn how to do jj –Enzo age 11
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
My daughter Isabella loves DM Jiujutsu. We’ve been to several different academies, but Coach Suzanne has showed her a lot of compassion, talks to them not at them, brought the fun back to art my daughter lives for. Training for competition is hard work. My daughter comes home to exercise and implement what she is taught in class and in everyday life. I know my daughter is being taught the tools to defend herself.
Place rating: 5
Norwalk, CA
The professor here is very knowledgeable and has experience in self-​defense and sport jiu-​jitsu. If your looking to train hard, lose weight, and gain confidence this the place to go. Whether you want to compete or have a hobby this place has it all. If your scared or feel you are out of shape don’t worry; Dmbjj has a great atmosphere and will help you get in shape and have fun.
Place rating: 5
Bellflower, CA
I have been training at DMBJJ for 1 ½ years and I can honestly say this is the school for me. Coming in I had no idea what I was getting myself into with no back round in martial arts, it was definitely a step out of my comfort zone to say the least.
The environment is great with good people who make you feel welcomed, professor dimitrios is a highly knowledgeable instructor who is producing high level jiu jitsu students.
I love to compete and I can proudly say every competition I do professor dimitrios is always there to coach me. If your looking for a good jiu jitsu gym with good people DMBJJ is a great school to try out.
Place rating: 5
South Gate, CA
One of the best and most knowledgable jiu-​jitsu instructors in all of Los Angeles County. And no doubt thee best in the Lakewood area. Dimitrios Mavraganis is a 3rd degree black belt under the legendary Rigan Machado.
Place rating: 5
Midway City, CA
After training with a few different academy’s I found DMBJJ to be the perfect fit. Professor Dimitrios is known as the «Encyclopedia» of Jiu Jitsu. There’s no question or situation he doesn’t have an answer to. At my 49 years of age Professor Dimitrios has tailored a game plan to keep me competitive with the rest of the team. Many different talents and helpful teammates at this school. After training here for 7 years I can actually say I have found a school that not only teaches the best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but also promotes Jiu Jitsu, fitness, and health as a way of life.
Place rating: 5
Bellflower, CA
My sons have been attending DMBJJ for a year and a half and they love it here. The coaches are extremely patient with the younger kids and motivating yet appropriately stern with the older kids. The kids learn respect for their elders, each other, and most importantly, themselves. The jiu jitsu techniques are taught with «bully» scenarios in mind… the kids learn them as a defense and as a last resort (Talk, Tell, then Tackle). Self-​confidence is learned and friendships are born here!
The coaches incorporate jiu jitsu into the warm-​up and concluding games the kids play. This motivates the kids to work hard and as a team. I have tried «free trials» at other martial arts locations and have found that DMBJJ’s coaches and teaching strategies are the best.
Place rating: 5
Bellflower, CA
My husband and two of my sons attend DM jiu jitsu Academy. They absolutely love it. The coaching is amazing. Structure, discipline, technique in the art of jiu jitsu and so much more. It really is my families home away from home ! Great if your looking for a healthy lifestyle change.
Place rating: 5
Downey, CA
I joined DM JITSU Academy, 4 months ago and it’s one of the best things I’ve added to my life. The first day I walked in I felt like I was home, I was received with so much love, respect, and support. The Professor and my classmates welcomed me right away and just made me feel like I was a part of his academy. Professor never makes anyone feel left out and is always giving you support. You can ask him any questions and he always answers all your questions and explains everything in away where we all understand and reviews his techniques in a very detailed manner so you understand. His foundation is very humble and reminds us that we’re all there to learn and help each other out. He shares his knowledge and experience in BJJ from his heart. Everyone in the gym is super nice. I am very proud and honor to be a part of DM academy and I wouldn’t change my academy for any other place. Please check us out The Professor offers free trials you will be very happy with this academy.
Place rating: 5
Long Beach, CA
I have always enjoyed martial arts, but after blowing my knees out in high school wrestling, I had a very hard time finding a martial art I could practice without re-​injuring myself. I was referred to DM BJJ by a good friend who knew I was looking for a place to train. I have now been training there for several months and I can’t say enough great things about the place or the team. DM BJJ has high level instructors who make it easy to ask questions and always display a strong sense of respect for everyone who comes through the door. This high regard for respect is equally practiced by the students, which made it very easy for a first timer, like myself, to get the most out of my time on the mat.
It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a good workout, self defense training, or hardcore BJJ training– DM BJJ covers it all. It also doesn’t matter what type of shape you’re in. DM BJJ’s training regiment can be adjusted to meet the needs of all body types. Take it from someone with a torn meniscus in both knees, DM BJJ offers an excellent training regiment that won’t push your body too hard… Unless you’re too prideful to tap.
Place rating: 5
Pico Rivera, CA
I joined the academy June 2013. One of the best decisions that I have made in my life was joining DMBJJ. The academy is filled with great and helpful people. Everyone at this academy is respectful of one another. Professor Dimitrios is highly knowledgeable and always eager to help his students.
Aside from the regular BJJ class, I also recently joined the women’s self defense class. I highly recommended this class to all women, as it teaches not only skills that can possibly save your life, but also provides great fitness.
Before joining this academy, I tried out a few others, but they didn’t compare to the instruction and environment at DMBJJ. I recommend DM academy to everyone. Come try it out and I guarantee you will not regret the decision. Professor Dimitrios offers a free trial, but it only took one class for me to realize that this was the academy where I wanted to train.
Place rating: 5
Lakewood, CA
I’ve been training here for 4 ½ years now. In that time, I’ve always felt that this is the place for me. When I started my training, I was pretty nervous for the first week or so, but that was only because I knew my skills weren’t there yet, and I felt the need to keep up. Everyone was always so approachable and willing to help, and it definitely gave me a boost of confidence. DMBJJ quickly became a second home for me.
Professor Dimitrios has a way of teaching that I’ve never experienced before. He’s detailed, patient, and passionate about the techniques we learn. It’s evident that he truly cares about the growth of each of his students.
Everything from the high level instruction, great teammates, and positive atmosphere sets DMBJJ above the rest. Whether you’re looking for a hobby, to compete, self defense, or just to get in great shape, look no further than DMBJJ.
Place rating: 5
Anaheim, CA
I started the womens self defense class here about a month ago and I LOVE IT!!! the instructor is awesome. He makes you feel very comfortable. So glad I found this place
Place rating: 5
San Diego, CA
First of all, at least when I went to this gym, there was a ten day free-​trial offer. So you get a risk-​free, good opportunity to see if this is the gym for you or not. So even if you choose no, I respect that they let you get a good look at the gym. Which is part of why I rated this five stars.
The instructor is a nice guy. He’s friendly, and helpful with technique.
Most of the students are in the white/​blue belt mix. Because of this the gym will naturally be more white-​belt friendly, and would likely be a good place to get started.
The pricing is around average. Maybe a hair high on a relative basis, but still more-​or-​less in line with most gyms.
Place rating: 5
Redding, CA
amazing jiu jitsu instruction very detailed and thorough black belt knowledge.
Place rating: 5
Downey, CA
I was looking for place for my son and me to train together. We tried other places before we went DMBJJ Academy. The first thing I noticed was that everyone greeted us with a hand shake and made us feel at ease. We came in without a clue of what Jiu-​Jitsu really was; we did our free trail in February and have been hooked ever since.
If you are looking for a place with NO meat-​heads, students that are always willing to help you, Patient and Excellent instructors, DMBJJ is the place for you.
Place rating: 5
Pico Rivera, CA
I have been a member of this school for about 6 months now.
When I first stepped in the academy, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I walked in and sat in the guest area to watch while Professor Dimitrios was teaching that day’s lesson. The professor is very professional and super knowledgeable in the art of Brazilian jiu jitsu. He’s very approachable, which makes it easy to ask questions you may have about joining.
This place has a great environment for learning and fine tuning your own jiu jitsu game. Although higher belts will always give you pointers during rolls or drills, majority of the time it’s Prof. Dimitrios who corrects you.
Prior to finding this place, I was determined on finding a Muay Thai school because I used to train Muay Thai and loved it. I would train some no-​gi with some friends but it wasn’t a structured academy taught by a black belt. This is the first time I’ve ever trained in gi jiu jitsu, and I gotta tell you, I don’t regret it. Don’t get me wrong, I still would like to find a close Muay Thai place to do some stand up, but I would not give up DMBJJ for it.
If you’re even reading these reviews, come into the academy to see how a class is ran. If you like it and are interested, the prof will have you sign a waiver and you can try it out! Everyone is very friendly and will make you feel welcome to join the class. Oh and if you have trained bjj somewhere else and are looking for a new place, I bet you’ll learn a lot from joining here. Great place to grow as any level bjj practitioner.
Place rating: 5
South Gate, CA
DMBJJ is an amazing place. I started training in June/​2013. Before this academy I went to a few other ones to check them out. All the other places around my area were not as professional or well organized like DMBJJ. What I like the most is that you don’t have big headed guys in there. The academy has «leave your ego at the door» in the front window, and I can say that truly applies to this academy. The first time I went to check this place out everyone came to shake my hand an introduce themselves, that’s when I noticed how professional this place was and knew that this was the place for me. EVERYONE helps each other out. Being taught by a black belt is amazing, Professor Dimitrios is very detailed in his instructions on technique.
I was nervous going in there the first time just getting to meet knew people and didn’t know what to expect, but everyone is super humble. Come check this place out, and expect me to shake your hand and introduce myself when you show up!
If your looking for an amazing, respectable place to train this is the Academy you want to be at! DMBJJ!
Come get your roll on! Oss!