About Burdette Jiu Jitsu

We are a proud affiliate of Team Clinch in Owasso. Team Clinch is run by professor Christian Derr, who received his black belt from Jean Jacques Machado, thus our lineage has its roots also with Jean Jacques Machado. If you are familiar with grappling, then you will know that name. Jean Jacques is acknowledged and respected as one of the top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu artists and teachers in the world. He is a native Brazilian and is a cousin to the famous Gracie family. ​

I began training BJJ in 2011 when a buddy of mine, Matthew Holland also a black belt under Professor Christian Derr at Clinch, coaxed me into trying a class. Fortunately for me, my buddy and I were both working at the Williams tower in downtown Tulsa, and had the convenience of using their fitness center. Matthew scored some old heavy wrestling mats, and the journey began. Matthew and a few us formed what is now called DTC, Downtown Clinch, which has been credited with putting out 4 black belts now. In 2021 as a brown belt, I had the privilege of serving as the lead instructor at DTC for two years. This lit a passion in my for teaching and promoting the BJJ lifestyle. In February of 2023, I was awarded my black belt by Professor Christian Derr.

Thus begins the story of Burdette Jiu Jitsu... ​

Why:

BJJ has been a huge part of my life for the last 12 years. In those 12 years, I've met incredible friends, learned quality self defense and have had a blast rolling around on the mats! BJJ is an incredible way to increase confidence, strength and awareness and build a legit tool belt of self-defense. ​

Additionally, by opening Burdette BJJ, I will also be able to combine my love for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with the Jiu Jitsu community. ​

On a personal note, I am married to my best friend, Amber Burdette, of 23 years. We have two amazing boys, Jacob who is 21 and heading to Chiropractic school, and Luke who is 18 and heading to OU. I am currently in my second year of my PhD program at OSU (even though I bleed crimson and cream), studying Educational Leadership. Our family loves Jesus and attend Woodlake in Bixby, Oklahoma.