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Since 2014 · Irvine, California
An academy built ontechnique and patience.
Phenom BJJ is dedicated to top-notch Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for individuals of all ages and skill levels — a supportive, inclusive room where students learn and grow under experienced instructors.
01 Our school
The room on Von Karman
Phenom BJJ sits at 16782 Von Karman Ave, Unit 22, Irvine, CA 92606. Our academy is dedicated to providing top-notch Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where students learn and grow under the guidance of experienced instructors. With a focus on technique, discipline and community, Phenom helps each student reach their personal and martial arts goals.
The facility includes locker rooms and showers for a comfortable, convenient training experience, top-of-the-line shock-absorbing mats for added safety, and an air-conditioned floor that keeps classes running year round.
02 Head instructor
Professor Martin Morachimo
Professor Martin Morachimo is the Head Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor at Phenom BJJ in Orange County. With 24 years of experience in the art, he brings an unusually deep lineage to the mat.
Martin began his Jiu-Jitsu journey under Roger Machado, one of the five world-famous Machado brothers, in December 2000. After eight years he wanted a larger role in the sport, which led him to train with Romulo Barral — a world-class competitor and multiple-time international and world champion.
Under Professor Romulo's tutelage Martin sharpened his technical game, competing as a brown belt and winning the 2011 Pan American Jiu-Jitsu Championships. That period also prepared him for his role as a black belt instructor.
He began teaching full time in 2009, first as head instructor of Gracie Barra Santa Ana for three years. His dedication to teaching led him to open Phenom BJJ in 2014, where he has been instrumental in building a strong and supportive community.
Martin believes Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone — from professional athletes and retirees to elementary school children looking for discipline and a sense of unity. He views it as a way to focus mind and body while providing genuine stress relief, and he emphasises that the challenges in Jiu-Jitsu mirror those in life.
It teaches us to be comfortably uncomfortable — and shows there is always a possibility to overcome obstacles and rise again.
Our mission
Building confident students and a stronger community.
Grow on and off the mats
We provide high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a safe, positive and respectful environment where kids and adults build confidence, discipline, resilience and lifelong friendships.
Every student matters
Every student is unique. Whether you are brand new, returning to training after years away, or helping your child get started, you are welcome here.
Technique before force
Classes are built around proper technique, respectful training partners, and coaching that helps each student improve at their own pace rather than survive someone else's.
The facility
- Locker rooms and showers — train before or after work without planning your whole day around it.
- Top-of-the-line shock-absorbing mats for safer falls and live training.
- Indoor, air-conditioned floor — classes run year round regardless of heat or rain.
- Five coaches on staff so students get real attention and closer supervision.
- Two Orange County locations — Irvine and Lake Forest.
- Spacious, fully equipped training area suited to beginners and seasoned competitors alike.
05 Proof
Twenty years of lineage, judged by parents
06 Start here
Your first class is free.
No experience needed, no fitness prerequisite, nothing to buy. Here is exactly how it goes.
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01
Book it
Reserve your free intro class online in about a minute — or call and we will book it for you.
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02
Turn up
Comfortable athletic clothes are fine for a first class. Arrive a few minutes early and we will show you around.
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03
Train
Meet the coaches, learn a few basic movements and get an honest feel for how the room works.
Prefer to talk? (657) 210-1615 ◆
07 Find us
Two academies in Orange County
Our flagship academy sits in the Irvine business district off Von Karman Avenue, minutes from Tustin, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach. Our second location serves Lake Forest and south county.
Irvine, CA 92606 Get directions