Jamie Cruz began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1994. Back then, the martial art was relatively unknown in the United States and had only been witnessed by a wide audience in a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) event now known as UFC1. Under the tutelage of the legendary Renzo Gracie, one of the pioneers of the popularization of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the country, Jamie’s propensity for grappling was realized and his skills quickly advanced.

By 2003, after nearly a decade of dedicated training, Renzo awarded Jamie his black belt, becoming just the 7th practitioner to ever receive a black belt from the acclaimed martial artist. ​ Now a 4th degree black belt, Jamie has developed his own legacy, having trained MMA fighters such as Charlie Brenneman, Brian McLaughlin, Jim Miller, Dan Miller, and Dillon Danis, and is one of the most recognized names and widely respected instructors within the New Jersey martial arts and grappling world. Jamie’s renowned teaching strategies are centered on a framework of proven success for all students.

In an effort to spread knowledge and grow the martial art, Jamie Cruz supports and encourages all of his students to one day become teachers themselves. As a result, many have been motivated to do just that and even start their own Jiu-Jitsu programs and open their own schools.​

Currently, Jamie is training Kodokan Judo and is a brown belt under Sensei Camal.