Mixed Martial Arts in DC News Blog

Luis Pantoja

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Luis Pantoja of Team Yamasaki is not known for being outspoken, but his leadership by example approach to jiu-jitsu is what has earned him respect from his students and peers. As he teaches his students at his Yamasaki Jiu-Jitsu location in Woodley Park, they know that he has earned his black belt the old fashioned way: through hard work.

“I just try to lead by example by competing,” said Pantoja. Recent third place finishes in the black belt divisions of the No-Gi Pan American Championships (October 2010) and the New York International Open (Gi division-May 2010) showed his recent activity in the sport.

Like many competitors inspired in the 90′s, Pantoja took to Brazilian jiu-jitsu when watching the early UFC’s of Royce Gracie. Intrigued by the idea that a smaller person could defeat a larger opponent, he started training in the Yamasaki camp in the late 90′s. “I got into BJJ because of Royce Gracie,” said Pantoja.

As a full time instructor, Pantoja likes to use a very simple, yet effective approach to teaching his white belts. “My advice is to focus on the basics,” said Pantoja. Using Roger Gracie as an example, Pantoja said that Roger Gracie doesn’t use any fancy moves, but focuses on the basics to win.

After over 10 years of training, Pantoja remains humble with his philosophy on jiu-jitsu. “I consider myself a student,” he says. When discussing the usage of technique, Pantoja said, “Everybody moves a little differently.” Always try to learn, change the training, and change the approach, said Pantoja.

Yamasaki Jiu-Jitsu D.C. is located on Connecticut Avenue NW in the neighborhood of Woodley Park. Contact Luis Pantoja at www.bjjdc.com for more information about the academy.

Read Related Yamasaki D.C. Articles:
Check out the Yamasaki D.C. facility and the BJJ class
BJJ technique: Luis Pantoja demonstrates an armbar finish from the guard position
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