Estevan Martinez

Estevan Martinez-Garcia was born on March 28, 1993, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His martial arts journey began at age 14 when he joined his high school's wrestling team, actively competing throughout his four-year tenure. Shortly after graduating in 2011, Martinez discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through a wrestling teammate who invited him to a local class. Initially training under coaches Kalo and Kale Lopez, Estevan quickly developed a passion for submission grappling, drawn by the sport's competitive intensity and technical depth.

In pursuit of higher-level training and greater competitive exposure, Martinez relocated to California in 2017 to join the prestigious ZR Team. Under the mentorship of Lucas Rocha, Estevan refined his grappling skills and significantly elevated his performance on the international stage. After three years of dedicated training, Martinez earned his black belt from Rocha on June 1, 2019, following a bronze medal finish at the 2019 IBJJF World Championship. His first year as a black belt featured impressive achievements, highlighted by double gold medals at the 2020 IBJJF American Nationals (Gi and No-Gi) and a gold medal at the 2021 IBJJF Pan Championship No-Gi.

In early 2024, Martinez announced the opening of his own academy, Bully Me Now Ormond Beach, in Florida. Serving as co-owner and head coach, this move marked his departure from ZR Team in California and signaled a new chapter in his career. At his academy, Martinez emphasizes competition-oriented training, strategically preparing his students for elite-level events, including ADCC competitions.

Estevan Martinez-Garcia is renowned for his fearless competitive approach, frequently challenging opponents significantly larger than himself. This bold mindset has earned him the nickname "Giant Slayer." A notable example of his willingness to engage larger opponents was his memorable match against a 6'3" competitor at Third Coast Grappling 8. Martinez consistently embraces open-weight divisions, showcasing an aggressive, technical grappling style characterized by dynamic movement, precise timing, and relentless pressure.

Martinez has expanded his competitive presence into the ADCC Open circuit, achieving notable success. At the 2024 ADCC Orlando Open, he secured multiple victories and captured entire divisions, demonstrating his adaptability and technical proficiency in submission grappling. Alongside his active competition schedule, Martinez dedicates himself to coaching, guiding his students toward success in ADCC and other prestigious grappling tournaments.