World Champion Jiu Jitsu in Downtown Raleigh
Train under 3rd degree black belt Glayton Melo — Nova União lineage, former SWAT officer, 24+ years on the mat. Beginner to competitor. Your first class is free.
World Champion Instruction in the Heart of Downtown Raleigh
IRONGRIP Jiu Jitsu was founded in 2020 by Glayton Melo — a world champion and 3rd degree black belt with over 24 years of training under the Nova União banner, one of the most dominant BJJ and MMA teams in the world. Glayton also served as a SWAT officer with the Pernambuco Police Force, applying submission techniques in real-world situations.
Glayton teaches almost every class himself. Every student gets personalized attention and a structured, progressive curriculum designed to take a complete beginner to confident and capable — step by step. IRONGRIP is welcoming, ego-free, and genuinely community-driven. Growth is inevitable here.
Our Programs
Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Authentic Gi and No-Gi BJJ classes focused on technique, real-world self-defense, and building a strong community. Whether you're stepping on the mat for the first time or preparing for competition, our program meets you where you're at.
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Kids Jiu Jitsu
Our Kids BJJ program teaches children ages 5–12 to defend themselves with confidence while developing discipline, focus, and resilience both on and off the mat.
Learn MoreWhat Our Members Say
"I started my BJJ journey in January of '26 at IronGrip BJJ and I am loving it. Coach Glayton is an amazing instructor and the gym vibe is very welcoming to newbies. I definitely recommend this place!"
Emil Garcia
"Iron Grip has been one of the best decisions we've made. Coach Glayton is not only an excellent instructor, but also a great mentor. He creates a positive and disciplined environment where kids learn technique, respect, and confidence. Every class is structured, fun, and encouraging. Couldn't be happier — highly recommend to anyone looking for a great jiu jitsu academy."
Cynthia
"IronGrip is as good as it gets! This gym is a great place to learn BJJ and welcomes all skill levels. Coach Glayton fosters a welcoming community, productive training, and a legitimate martial arts culture."
James Virgil
Why Train at IRONGRIP
World Champion Teaches Your Class
Glayton Melo is a 3rd degree black belt and world champion who personally teaches almost every session at IRONGRIP. At most gyms the head instructor is barely on the mat — not here.
Every Student Gets Personal Attention
Small class sizes and hands-on coaching mean Glayton actually watches you, corrects your technique, and knows where you are in your journey. You're not a number on a mat.
Structured Curriculum From Zero to Confident
IG 1 Fundamentals is built for people with zero experience. The curriculum progresses logically — so you always know what you're working on and why. No confusion, no wasted sessions.
Real Community in Downtown Raleigh
Welcoming, ego-free, and genuinely tight-knit. The people you train with at IRONGRIP become friends. Located at 731 W Hargett St — convenient to Glenwood South, Cameron Village, Cary, and Midtown.
Train Under a World Champion — First Class Free
Glayton teaches almost every class at IRONGRIP. Personalized attention, structured curriculum, no experience needed.
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