Ground ZERO Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense
About
Ground ZERO Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense offers comprehensive martial arts training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, judo, and karate. The gym is led by Head Coach Derek Ruffin, an IBJJF No-Gi World Champion and former professional MMA fighter with extensive credentials including Rener Gracie US National Champion and three Pan Am medals. Founder Leonardo Pecahna, who established Team Kronos, also contributes to the instruction. The facility provides a balanced approach that blends sport techniques with practical self-defense applications, catering to both competitive athletes and those seeking personal protection skills.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently describe the gym as having an amazing, family-like atmosphere where everyone is friendly and supportive. They praise the exceptional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction as top-notch in Kansas City, with specific appreciation for Head Coach Derek Ruffin's expertise and the patient teaching style of all instructors. Reviewers highlight how welcoming the environment is for beginners, with affordable pricing and a perfect balance between sport techniques and practical self-defense applications. Many mention the kids classes are excellent for developing confidence, and they value the high-quality seminars and diverse martial arts offerings.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Kyle S
3 years ago
Great atmosphere to train and learn. The instructors are professional and welcoming. The kids classes offer great BJJ teaching in a fun environment while also developing leadership and confidence.
Roderick Sherrill
4 years ago
This place is amazing! They offer many different approaches to self defense but the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu here is top notch! The technique is the best I've experienced in KC. The people are very kind and professional. The kids classes are great! There are also two very good black belts that run classes. The offer judo, striking and more. As I have already said also great Jiu-Jitsu. I have decided to call this place home.
Sarah Staat
2 months ago
This group of humans are amazing. The teachers all the way down to the newest person are helpful and the most friendly group of people you could ever want to be around. You will learn so much from this group of humans.
John Gagen
3 years ago
Amazing Jiu Jitsu gym! This was an amazing first experience to jiu jitsu. Going into a sport like BJJ was super scary but all the people here made it super easy to get into it. The prices are super cheap compared to other schools. The classes teach BJJ in a perfect mix between sport and self defense. Derek is a super nice guy and is a great professor. They also host some great seminars that you can really learn a ton from. Below is a picture from one of their seminars with Royce Gracie; a UFC hall of famer and jiu jitsu champ. Overall a great way to get into jiu jitsu and a great deal for everything you get out of it.
William Toney
6 years ago
Awesome place to train! Derek Ruffin is a great guy and has lots of experience in a variety of different martial arts as well as self defense. His instructors are also very qualified and are patient as you learn the ropes. The people that train here treat each other like family and its been great getting to know everyone. Its been a blast and I would highly recommend trying it out!
paymentsMembership
$120/mo
Contact
305 W 80th St, Kansas City, MO 64114, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Derek Ruffin
Head Coach / BJJ Instructor
IBJJF No-Gi World Champion, Rener Gracie US National Champion, 3x Pan Am medalist, former professional MMA fighter, former KCPD SWAT
Kansas City's longest active national and IBJJF competitor. Over 30 years of martial arts experience. Student of Prof. Leonardo Pecahna.
Leonardo Pecahna
Founder of Team Kronos
Professor, founder of Team Kronos
Founder of Team Kronos, under which the gym operates. Mentor to Prof. Derek Ruffin.