Norwood & Roslindale, Massachusetts
We don't drill techniques on a standing-still partner. For the last three years, Connors has trained exclusively with the Constraints-Led Approach — live, competitive games designed so the skill has to work against real resistance.
That's why our beginners get dangerous faster — and why our competitors keep winning.
Only able to train once or twice a week? That's exactly who this works for. When you're a hobbyist, every hour on the mat has to count — our style of training maximizes your development in the time you have, with live training instead of long lectures, so none of your time is wasted.
No long lectures. Just training.
Head instructor John Connors spent his first 18 years coaching the traditional way — static drilling, technique of the day, compliant partners. For the last three years, Connors has been CLA-only: every round is a live game with defined constraints, so timing, pressure and problem-solving are built in from day one.
No shadow-drilling a move 50 times on a partner who isn't resisting. You learn the skill inside the fight, against someone trying to stop you.
Each drill is a competitive game with constraints that force the exact skill being built — position, connection, finishing mechanics.
Students say new training partners become a real problem within six months — and that it's a better workout than static drilling ever was.
The same training works for both. Competitors get live rounds that prepare them for tournaments, and hobbyists get the same coaching, fitness and self-defense — with no pressure to compete. Train for medals, or just train because you love it.
Our coaches have competition-tested results — IBJJF Masters Worlds, Euros and Pans gold at the head-coach level, and a 7–3 pro MMA record on the team. What you learn here has been proven in current competition and brought straight back to share with our students, so you're training the most up-to-date knowledge, not an outdated game.
“We believe that competition is an extension of our training. We use the results to dictate the next steps of our training.”
Three programs in Norwood — Jiu Jitsu (Gi & No-Gi), Muay Thai and Kids No-Gi Jiu Jitsu — plus Adult No-Gi at our temporary Roslindale location. No-Gi is the backbone of the academy, with a class every single day.
One Jiu Jitsu program, two class types. No-Gi classes run throughout the week — submission grappling in rash guard and shorts, with takedowns, leg locks and live rounds every class, including the daily 11:00am session in Norwood and lunchtimes in Roslindale. Gi classes train in the traditional uniform — grips, collar chokes and the full guard game — at 6:00am on Mondays and Fridays with Coach Matt Dion.
The art of eight limbs — punches, kicks, knees, elbows and clinch work. Morning and evening sessions coached by Jesse McElligott, a black belt and former professional MMA fighter.
All kids classes are No-Gi — no gi required. Confidence, discipline and real self-defense, split by age so every kid trains with the right partners. Sunday is all ages together; Tuesday and Thursday split 5–8 and 9+; Wednesday is for the competition team.
One-on-one training at the Norwood academy, built around your game and your schedule — offered as a service alongside the three programs above. Call (617) 285-2401 to book.
Five coaches across two locations — black belts, a former professional MMA fighter, and a competition team that finishes tournaments at the top of the standings.
Head Instructor · Norwood & Roslindale
Professor John Connors is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with over two decades of BJJ experience. He teaches Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA and Muay Thai Kickboxing to kids and adults.
John is a Harvard University graduate, where he was part of the Harvard Boxing Club, and served on the Board of Directors of Level Ground Mixed Martial Arts (2016–2017), a children’s nonprofit.
He began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in January 1999 and earned his black belt in October 2006 from Roberto Maia at Boston Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He has run his own Jiu Jitsu academy since July 2005 and has studied Muay Thai since 2006 with the trainers at Sityodtong Academy in Somerville, MA.
IBJJF Titles — Gold
John teaches classes at both Norwood and Roslindale.
Coach · Black Belt · Roslindale & Norwood
Rory Connors is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, born and raised in Boston, MA. He is the son of Head Instructor John Connors. Rory graduated from Boston Latin School in 2012 and attended the UMass Dartmouth School of Engineering.
He started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in February 2016 and began coaching classes in 2020. He received his black belt from John Connors in December 2024, after becoming a Brown Belt World Champion.
Rory currently coaches both Kids and Adults classes, and also meets with students for private lessons. He specializes in No-Gi Grappling.
Achievements
More titles
Rory teaches classes at both Norwood and Roslindale.
Coach · First Degree Black Belt · Norwood
Matt runs the early shift. His 6:00am classes are where Norwood's working professionals get their training in before the day starts.
Coach · First Degree Black Belt · Norwood
A black belt and former professional MMA fighter, Jesse coaches adult BJJ and kids No-Gi BJJ as well as the Muay Thai Kickboxing program — striking and grappling under one coach who's done both at the pro level.
Pro MMA Record
Assistant Coach · Purple Belt · Norwood
Bob assists with the Kids No-Gi Classes in Norwood, helping young students build confidence, discipline and solid fundamentals on the mats.
Norwood trains seven days a week. Roslindale runs Adult No-Gi at lunchtime, three days a week. Filter by class type to find your session.
Private lessons are available at the Norwood academy — call (617) 285-2401 to arrange a time. Friday Open Mat is open training time — one combined session with Kids ages 9+ and adults on the mats together.
12:00–1:00pm — Adult No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Coach: John Connors or Rory Connors
12:00–1:00pm — Adult No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Coach: John Connors or Rory Connors
12:00–1:00pm — Adult No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Coach: John Connors or Rory Connors
John Connors and Rory Connors take turns teaching these classes — you'll train with one of them each class, not both at the same time. At YMAA, 756 South St, Roslindale. Roslindale is a temporary location — call the Connors number, (617) 285-2401, to get started.
5.0 stars from 102 Google reviews — all 102 are 5-star. The reviews below are from Google, shown as written.
102 Google reviews — all 5-star. All reviews in this section are from Google. Long reviews are shortened with a Read more button — tap it to see the full text exactly as written on Google.
I have been training at Connors Martial Arts Academy since October 2025, and I can confidently say it has been one of the best decisions I've made. Coach John and Coach Rory are both extremely high-level competitors and coaches who genuinely care about the growth, skill development, and progression of every student. The quality of training is top notch, and I have seen tremendous improvement in my skills in a relatively short amount of time. Beyond the technical instruction, the community is what makes this place special. More experienced students are always willing to help, share knowledge, and push you to improve while fostering a positive environment where everyone is focused on growth. There have been times when I have been able to train five times per week and times when I was only able to train twice per week, but their CLA style of training allows everyone to improve regardless of how busy their schedule may be. The academy has also pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I have been encouraged to compete a few times, and those experiences have helped me grow not only as a martial artist but also as a person. The lessons I have learned on the mats have carried over into my life off the mats. If you are looking for a place with excellent coaching, challenging training, and an incredible community, Connors Martial Arts Academy is the place to be!
Steve S.Google review
I joined Connors Martial Arts Academy 4 years ago at the age of 53. I can tell you it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Having joined the gym at almost 240 lbs and now 4 years later at age 57 weighing 200 lbs I can tell you not only am I getting World class training from John and Rory I am in better shape than I have been in 30 years. The gym is welcoming, clean and safe for people of all ages and ability. Whether your training to compete in tournaments, get in shape or just understanding some self defense you will not find a better gym around. Take it from me, its never to late to start.
Kevin F.Google review
I have been training at Connors MMA for about a month now, both jiu jitsu and Muay Thai. I don't have to worry about wearing funny outfits and bowing down to my "sensei", it's just straight grinding and improving. Rory, John, and all the other coaches are simply amazing. Every question I have is answered with expertise and I learn something new every day. The level of guidance and support I've experienced makes it feel like a private class. Not only that, but the community at this gym is full of amazing, genuine, knowledgeable people that, especially as a beginner, have helped me learn so much to the point where I feel like I just have an infinite amount of coaches. This has resulted, in my humble opinion, in a solid amount of progression since I started. I couldn't be happier, and I highly highly recommend Connor's MMA to anybody, especially beginners looking to build their confidence with a helping hand.
Nathaniel G.Google review
The hardest thing to do in any gym is to walk through the front door and give it a shot. From the first day I joined coach John, coach Rory and everybody in the gym welcomed me and made sure it was a fun experience. There are people of every skill level in this gym and everbody has a common goal of improving. This attitude is fostered from the top down. Give Conners a try and you will not be disappointed. - Dan M.
Dan M.Google review
I joined almost eight years ago and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've learned a lot and have met some great people who have become my friends. The kids program is outstanding and my son started there when he was six. He's now thirteen and for him it has been a very positive experience. It has helped him mentally and physically grow. The coaches are top notch and Coach John has been a superb instructor.
Scott M.Google review
I've been training at Connors for a little over a year and it's been the best decision I've made in my life. As previously mentioned, the instruction is fantastic. Attention to detail and easy to follow for people of all different experiences. But the most important aspect of Connors is the environment. What John, Rory and all the coaches of Connors have brought to this gym in terms of a welcoming and friendly environment is why I drive 40 minutes to train (even with a gym 5 minutes from my house). They always provide an open ear and open mind to anyone who approaches them, they train with all students and they've created a gym that has attracted people of the highest caliber. I cannot recommend this gym enough to anyone who has approached me about training.
Billy F.Google review
I've been going to Connors for the past 10 years. It is a great gym filled with incredible instructors and students. The quality of the training has been consistently strong and it is very safe and clean training environment. Everyone is there to learn and improve and it is a very inclusive place. If you are interested in starting your BJJ journey or are looking to improve your game, this is the place to be.
CraigGoogle review
As a 54 year old police officer looking to improve my ability to safely control aggressive subjects, I started training no Gi Jiu Jitsu at Connors Martial Arts Academy 8 months ago. Coaches John and Rory are excellent instructors who immediately welcomed me to begin my journey. I highly recommend stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something that is humbling but even more rewarding. The teaching and training methods at Connors are vey practical and applicable. I highly recommend Connors for anybody looking to train in a professional, knowledgeable, and friendly environment. -Tim D
Tim D.Google review
I've been training at Connors for about 6 years now. What stands out to me about Connors is the easy going, very warm and welcoming atmosphere. I've never seen someone turned away nor have I heard any negative comment about anyone. I have made countless friends throughout my time at Connors as well as learn invaluable lessons about my training and more importantly myself. I also like the fact that I can come train at any point throughout the week when it's convenient for me with open mat every Sunday. It definitely was one of the best decision I've made in the past 6 years!
Tin N.Google review
My girlfriend is from Norwood and we came here to escape hurricane Milton. I had been following the Connors' instagram for a while and was excited to come here for a drop in class. I had a great time training with them! Rory was super friendly, and trained with me throughout the entire class. All of the students were super nice and welcoming, no egos here. I can't speak to the overall curriculum, but from what I saw, I can already tell these guys are legit. I definitely recommend visiting for a drop in if you are in the area!
Scott-Jeffrey M.Google review
I've trained at Connor's MMA for nearly 20 years—absolutely unmatched! Expert coaching, top level competitors, great training partners and tight-knit community. Ideal for all skill levels. Ive seen incredible progress and my confidence has soared thanks to the guidance and support of everyone here. Highly recommended.
George L.Google review
Great people, great coaching, great environment.
Rebecca M.Google review
Best BJJ place to roll in the area, period.
Alexander K.Google review
The owners/coaches are super friendly, helpful and supportive!
John B.Google review
A parent's note and the team's competition results — separate from the Google reviews above.
“Her confidence is through the roof — and she made the honor roll.”
Kevin F.Connors parent — on his daughter's progress
Team Standings
The academy backs its coaching with results: the #1 team in North America in Grappling Industries, with 545 team wins and 17,786 points.
Grappling IndustriesNorth America team standings
Competition Record
599 team medals and counting — 275 gold, 214 silver and 110 bronze earned by Connors students on Smoothcomp.
SmoothcompTeam medal totals
Our home academy in Norwood, and — for a limited time — lunchtime No-Gi in Roslindale. One phone number reaches both.
59 Davis Ave, 2nd Floor (Unit 204)
Norwood, MA 02062
Hosted at YMAA (Yang's Martial Arts Association)
756 South St, Roslindale, MA 02131
Your first class is free. Membership pricing below is for Norwood only.
Train in one program — Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai Kickboxing.
Both programs together — grappling and striking.
Kids No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Norwood.
Registration: All sign-ups include a one-time registration fee of $75.
Roslindale: For pricing at our temporary Roslindale location at YMAA, please call (617) 285-2401.
Nervous about your first class? That's normal. Here's what beginners at Connors actually want to know — in plain answers.
Yes. No experience is needed to start. Beginners are welcome, and your first class is a free trial class — pick a program from the schedule and come try it.
No. Connors training is for both competitors and hobbyists. If you want to compete, the live training and coaching will prepare you for tournaments. If you don't, you'll get the same training, fitness and self-defense — just train at your own pace, for your own reasons. There's no pressure to compete.
Wear comfortable workout clothes — preferably with no pockets or zippers — and make sure your finger and toe nails are trimmed before class.
Beginners jump right in — you'll be training in your first class, not sitting on the side. If you'd feel more comfortable watching your first time, that's fine too. And take as many breaks as you need.
Your first class is free. Choose a location and program below, then call (617) 285-2401 to lock in your spot.
Norwood pricing:
All sign-ups include a one-time registration fee of $75.
For Roslindale pricing, please call (617) 285-2401 — Roslindale is our temporary location at YMAA.
Norwood — main academy: 59 Davis Ave, 2nd Floor (Unit 204), Norwood, MA 02062. Classes 7 days a week.
Roslindale — temporary location: Hosted at YMAA, 756 South St, Roslindale, MA 02131. Adult No-Gi only, Monday / Wednesday / Friday, 12:00–1:00pm, taught by John Connors and Rory Connors, who take turns teaching.
One phone number reaches both locations: (617) 285-2401.
All kids classes are Kids No-Gi Jiu Jitsu in Norwood, split by age:
See the full schedule for class times.
Still nervous? Your first class is free — and you can watch first or take breaks whenever you need to.
Book a Free TrialYour first class is free. Tell us where you want to train and what you're interested in — then call to lock in your spot. First time on the mats? Wear comfortable workout clothes, preferably with no pockets or zippers, and trim your finger and toe nails before class. See Norwood pricing and the FAQ above.
Choose a location and program from the schedule — beginners are welcome in every fundamentals-friendly session.
Call (617) 285-2401 and we'll hold your spot and answer any questions.
Arrive 15 minutes early. Your first class is a real class — live games, real resistance, no standing still.
To lock in your spot, call us at (617) 285-2401 and mention your trial request.