Our Story
Sharpen Iron Academy “SIA” follows a martial arts family tradition started in 1925 by Carlos Gracie, and Hélio Gracie, the founders of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). SIA owners partner with instrumental members across the Worldwide BJJ network to stay close to the roots of this unique martial art. We employ only the best instructors, world recognized athletes and champions to promote the art.
We have held world class seminars by Gracie family members such as Roger Gracie, Renzo Gracie, Rillion Gracie, along with other known practitioners such as Nick Diaz, Roberto Godoi, and Rodrigo Clark. These enhance learning and keep traditions even closer with one-on-one training and Q&A. SIA Plano location has been named “Best Gym for Men”. We pride ourselves in being a close knit family of families. We welcome everyone to become a part of our tradition of a healthy lifestyle, with the most efficient self defense system at its center.
Ricardo Garone
Head Instructor at Allen Academy
Professor Ricardo, or Professor ‘Cafe’ is a 4th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Roberto Godoi.
Professor Cafe started his BJJ journey in 1995, receiving his blue belt under Daniel Gracie in 1998. He then received his Purple Belt in 2001 from the legendary late Ryan Gracie at the original Gracie gym. Cafe was given his black belt from ‘BJJHeroes’ Professor Roberto Godoi in 2005.
Professor Ricardo loves to teach, and believes in improving the lifestyle off the mat through the values instilled on the mat. He is an avid competitor, and passionately teaches lessons beyond the constraints of BJJ techniques. He aims to make a difference in each student’s life, young and old, thru the use of life lessons on the mat.
Professioanl Athlete
Edmaicon Moraes
Born in São Paulo, Professor Maicon used to live inside an academy , sleeping at night on the mat alongside legends like The Miyao Brothers and Leandro Lo. Earning his black belt in 2017, he continues to sharpen his blades to become one of the most impressive BJJ & MMA fighters in the world.
Training other arts to balance his BJJ and launch his MMA career, his record continues to grow in the W column. At the beginning of 2020, his record is 4-1.
Professional Athlete
Henrique Rossi
Born in São Paulo, Professor Henrique started his BJJ journey at the age of 12. He was a rambunctious kid getting into fights far too often. As a way to get let energy out, and discipline himself he started training.
Henrique lived in the same academy as Maicon and Max, garnering attention for his unique style; Being more agile and jumpy than others. Henrique is also one of the highest ranking athletes in the world.
Professional Athlete
Yasmim Pinheiro
Yasmim hails from Belem, Para. She started her BJJ journey at the age of 10, mirroring her older sister’s Judo takedowns. After a few years of Judo, she ultimately fell in love with Jiu Jitsu. Soon after joining SIA, she went on to be a world champion as a Blue Belt. Ranking #1 for her weight class, and #14 ranking in the world for all blue belts. She received her Purple Belt on the podium after becoming a world champion in 2019. She’s been a inspiration for woman of all ages in our academy.
What Members Are Saying
“…Not only was the staff friendly, helpful and encouraging, but the students and parents were friendly as well. They were very clear and forward when discussing their prices, programs and credentials. I opted to go with a contract which was ONE page and it couldn’t have been. The various classes, programs and payment options were a welcomed surprise. I feel as if there are programs that would fit any age, experience, and schedule…” ~ Tiffani C excerpt from Yelp Reviews. Read More!
“…First, how many times have you heard ‘we’re a family here‘ when you start a new job or attend a new church or whatever just to find out that it’s actually more of a group of acquaintances more than an actual family? I’ve heard that a thousand times, so when I started hearing the word ‘family‘ thrown around I rolled my eyes and thought, ‘Sure. This is going to be one of those families where nobody knows anyone else’s names and we don’t speak outside of these four walls.‘
Friends, that’s not the case here. I kid you not, this community of people are closer than my actual family. We’re always in communication outside of training hours. Everyone’s genuinely invested in each other on and off the mat. This is a similar brand of camaraderie I found in the Marines; it’s very much a ‘no man left behind‘ culture here…” ~ Shane A excerpt from Google Reviews. Read More!
“This is an incredible place, the staff, the professors, and the coaches are as awesome as they say. They are approachable and do make you feel like family. I was very impressed with the entire facility with cleanliness and overall feel from the gym. They offer a military discount and support veterans [We also offer many more discounts!]. I would give this gym 6 stars if able. If you are able to and in town train here you will enjoy it! They also have a kitchen with fresh Açaí bowls at a good price. Amazing!” ~ Matthew Roberts from Google Reviews. Read More!
Our Member Base
We have over 500 students across both academies, and we’ve been blessed to grow every year. The backgrounds of our members has always been spread all across the world, with people coming from all walks of life. We throw get-togethers all the time – especially for fight nights!
- Ages 3-16
- Young Adults 17-30
- Adults 31+