Collective Jiu Jitsu & MMA
About
Collective Jiu Jitsu & MMA offers comprehensive training across multiple disciplines including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. The gym is led by experienced coaches like Head Coach Andre Tieva, a black belt and former professional fighter with a 15-2 record, and Owner Armand Violi, a purple belt and MMA competitor. Other specialists include Jake Sweeney, a tournament gold medalist in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Jesse Soules, the current World Class Fight League flyweight champion. This diverse coaching staff ensures students receive expert guidance in both grappling and striking arts.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the gym's exceptional coaching, particularly highlighting coaches Aalon, Armand, and Cruz for their skill, patience, and clear instruction. They describe a welcoming, family-like atmosphere where everyone feels supported and motivated, with many noting the perfect balance between training experienced fighters and being beginner-friendly. Specific compliments include coaches who take time to explain fundamentals thoroughly, a positive community vibe that boosts confidence, and an environment that helps members improve their training level. No concerns are mentioned in the reviews, with all feedback being overwhelmingly positive.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Mikey Conlon
7 months ago
i love this gym. it’s my go to when i’m in tampa. Aalon is what truly makes it special. such a high level martial artist who truly cares about his students. with experience at the highest levels of MMA, you can’t ask for a better coach!
Kate Hawkins
10 months ago
I absolutely love training here! Coach Aalon and Coach Armand are not only incredibly skilled but also super supportive and down-to-earth. Everyone’s vibe is positive, respectful, and motivating. It feels like a real community here, like a family! Training with this crew makes me feel confident and really helps me improve my level of training. Very grateful for the Collective!!!
Keegan Dombrowsky
9 months ago
Coach Cruz is the best, just started here from my home gym back in MD. Coach is super friendly and welcoming, his gi fundamentals class are very good. He goes in to the perfect amount of depth explaining and performing the moves. Great teacher and is always there to help you improve.
Kyle Pachano
9 months ago
Collective Jiu Jitsu & MMA is an incredible gym with a great atmosphere and even better people. The coaches are knowledgeable and passionate, and the community is welcoming and supportive. Whether you're looking to train hard or just get started, this is the kind of place that makes you feel right at home. Highly recommend!
Dominic Jacquemin
9 months ago
I have been to other MMA schools and the great thing about Collective Jiu Jitsu is while they have experienced fighters at their school they are additionally beginner friendly. Aalon as the main instructor really takes time to explain the basics of techniques and what you are missing as opposed to leaving you to figure out yourself and from past experience at other schools in other states or even the Tampa area you will not find that everywhere. Also the school is just getting starting opening officially on June 7th!
Contact
4316 S Manhattan Ave, Tampa, FL 33611, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 – 11:30 AM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:30 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 12:30 – 3:30 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Andre Tieva
Head Coach
Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, former professional fighter (15-2 record)
Over 15 years experience in MMA and elite grappling. Leads MMA and BJJ curriculum with an athlete-first approach focusing on fundamentals and competitive preparedness.
Armand Violi
Owner & Founder
Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA & kickboxing competitor
Founder and owner. Holds purple belt in BJJ, has competed in MMA, kickboxing, and professional grappling. Shapes gym culture and coaches occasional classes.
Jake Sweeney
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Specialist
Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, multiple tournament gold medalist
Head of BJJ curriculum. Known for technical precision and breaking down complex movements. Designs and oversees gi and no-gi class structures.
Jesse Soules
Striking Specialist
Current World Class Fight League flyweight champion
Brings hands-on experience in Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and MMA striking. Emphasizes clean technique, footwork, combinations, and strategic thinking.