Danny Stolfi

From Video Game Inspiration to Purple Belt Under Matt Serra

Danny Stolfi's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey began uniquely—sparked by playing as BJ Penn in a UFC video game. Motivated by this virtual experience, he stepped onto the mats for the first time in 2009 at Matt Serra's academy on Long Island, New York. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and rapid progression, Stolfi earned his purple belt under Serra in approximately three years.

Elite Training and Mentorship at Art of Jiu Jitsu (AOJ)

Relocation and Training Under the Mendes Brothers

In 2012, driven by aspirations of reaching elite competition levels, Stolfi relocated to Southern California to train full-time at Art of Jiu Jitsu (AOJ) under legendary competitors Rafael Mendes and Guilherme Mendes. His relentless commitment and technical aptitude quickly distinguished him among AOJ's talented roster, eventually earning him the rare honor of becoming a head instructor despite initially being an outsider to their inner circle.

Black Belt Promotion and Continued Growth

Under the meticulous mentorship of Rafa and Gui Mendes, Stolfi received his black belt in 2017. In May 2021, he was promoted to first-degree black belt, marking over a decade of dedicated training and refinement of his craft.

Competition Style and Notable Matches

Technical Guard Specialist

Danny Stolfi is widely recognized for his highly technical and sophisticated open guard game, particularly his mastery of advanced techniques such as the De La Riva Guard and Berimbolo. His guard proficiency was notably showcased at Eddie Bravo's Combat Jiu-Jitsu Worlds 2021, where he advanced to the quarterfinals in the unique palm-strike grappling format.

Memorable Competitive Moments

Further solidifying his reputation as a top middleweight grappler, Stolfi was invited to compete at the prestigious EBI 2022 Welterweight Event. One of his most memorable competitive achievements occurred at the 2012 IBJJF New York Open, where, as a purple belt, he submitted the reigning Pan-American champion in the semifinal—a pivotal victory that fueled his ambition to pursue jiu-jitsu at the highest level.

Establishing Breathe Jiu Jitsu Academy and Coaching Philosophy

Founding Breathe Jiu Jitsu

In 2021, after years of teaching and training in Costa Mesa, California, Danny Stolfi returned to his roots on Long Island to co-found Breathe Jiu Jitsu Academy alongside his fiancée Jamie, herself a purple belt under the Mendes Brothers. As head instructor, Stolfi integrates AOJ's distinctive culture into the academy, emphasizing a balanced approach between traditional Gracie fundamentals and modern sport innovations.

Teaching Style and Academy Atmosphere

Known for his authoritative yet approachable teaching style, Stolfi meticulously breaks down complex techniques step-by-step, making advanced concepts accessible even to hobbyists. He remains actively involved in daily training and sparring sessions alongside his students, maintaining his own competition readiness while fostering a welcoming, family-like atmosphere at the academy.

Philosophy and Global Influence

Danny Stolfi advocates a balanced and holistic approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, blending tradition with evolution. He regularly incorporates fundamental self-defense drills into his curriculum while staying current with modern trends such as leg locks and lapel guards. Fully embracing the "jiu-jitsu lifestyle," Stolfi emphasizes healthy living, mental resilience, and humility—values he cultivated during his transformative move across the country at age 22.

His global influence extends beyond the United States, having taught seminars internationally in Europe and Asia, including significant training experiences in Japan. Through his personal journey, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication, Stolfi remains committed to spreading AOJ-influenced jiu-jitsu and inspiring practitioners worldwide to pursue their passions.