Gracie Barra JiuJitsu Instructor Raul Montolfo will host the grand opening of his new school on Sunday, July 27, at American Hapkido Mixed Martial Arts in Moorpark, located at 5260 Kazuko Court, Suite A.

The opening will feature training seminars with legendary founder Carlos Gracie Jr., world Jiu-Jitsu champions Marcio Feitosa, Flavio Alameda and Fabio Leopoldo, as well as former WBC Welterweight boxing champion Lupe Aquino.

Availability is limited to 120 attendees.

"Master Carlos Gracie Jr. founded Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu. It's a privilege having the legend himself doing a seminar here," Master Dan Anderson said.

"Gracie is the name in the world of Jiu-Jitsu. Gracie Barra has produced dozens of world champions and top UFC fighters. We are proud that the best in the business is now, for the first time, offering unparalleled instruction in Moorpark. The interest and demand is incredible."

American Hapkido Mixed Martial Arts is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Anderson, fifth-degree black belt and president of the American Hapkido Association, said: "We are proud to be affiliated with Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu and share our facilities with this prestigious program. It's such a great opportunity for mixed martial arts students."

Montolfo, who recently returned from training and receiving his teaching certificate from Gracie Jr. in Brazil, will be instructing classes for men, women, teenagers, and kids ages 6-12.

Montolfo, who was also a professional basketball player, has devoted his life to the study of martial arts, living in both Japan and South America, earning black belts in Hapkido and Aikido.

"Jiu-Jitsu is about using smooth fluid motion and technique to overcome strength," Montolfo said.

"It's amazing how even after a short period of training, a basically competent 10 year old can safely defend himself against a much bigger, stronger and older kid without ever throwing a punch."

Sensei Montolfo is quick to point out that the essence of JiuJitsu is not about fighting itself, but rather building character, discipline, confidence and physical fitness in a friendly, supportive, family-oriented environment.

"Our goal is to prepare all our students to succeed in all aspects of their lives by using the principles taught through Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu," he said.