We had the great honor of welcoming Master Royce Gracie for our official Grand Opening. The event drew more than 100 attendees — a truly special and historic day for Sherman, Texas. We are building something unique and meaningful here. It was powerful to share our vision with so many first-time visitors, and to witness the community respond with openness and enthusiasm. Master Royce Gracie, UFC Hall of Famer and pioneer of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide, stood on our mat and affirmed what we believe: that the art belongs to everyone who is willing to earn it.
International Instructors Meeting
Earlier that day, before the seminar, we hosted an International Next Level Jiu-Jitsu Professors and Instructors Meeting. Professors from different countries gathered to discuss the philosophy behind Next Level, the importance of uniformity — including our white Gi standard — cleanliness, discipline, class structure, and the beauty, purpose, and truth behind our system.
Professors and instructors from across the globe gathered in unity
Next Level is not random. Everything we do has intention, honor, and structure behind it. This meeting represents the global expansion and unity of our association — a shared commitment to excellence that transcends borders.
Seminar with Master Royce Gracie
When Royce stepped onto the mat, the energy in the room shifted. Students of all ages and ranks gathered to learn from the man who introduced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the world. His humility and presence are unmistakable. He teaches with patience, clarity, and the quiet authority of someone who has spent a lifetime living the art.
Royce Gracie being awarded a plaque of recognition from Next Level head professor Tony
It is rare for a community like Sherman to have direct access to such legendary figures. This opportunity — to train under Royce Gracie in our own school — is a gift we do not take lightly. It affirms that the art we teach is the real art, passed down through the lineage that changed combat sports forever.
Uncle Royce with little Layla
Special Recognition — Master John Machado
We were deeply honored to have Master John Machado as a special guest at our Grand Opening. His presence added another layer of significance to the day. Master John Machado is an iconic figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and his commitment to excellence and tradition aligns with everything Next Level stands for. We extend our sincere gratitude to him and to his students who attended and supported the event. Your presence strengthened our celebration.
Honored guests and the Next Level community together
Black Belt Promotion — Yves
One of the most meaningful moments of the day was Yves receiving his Black Belt from Professor Tony. A Black Belt is not given — it is earned through years of discipline, sacrifice, loyalty, and perseverance. It represents a lifelong journey. For Yves, it is the culmination of dedication that extends far beyond the mat.
A milestone moment for Next Level and for our brotherhood
This was a milestone not only for Yves but for Next Level and for our brotherhood. We celebrate his achievement with dignity and pride.
Royce demonstrating techniques with our dear good friend Fish
Community Gratitude
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended — to families, students, friends, and supporters. Your presence made this day possible. This is only the beginning. Together, we are building something that will endure.
Our sincere thanks to Master John Machado for honoring us with his presence
Media Coverage
Our Grand Opening was also featured in local news coverage. We encourage you to view the segment and share in the recognition of this historic moment for Sherman:
Building the Future in Sherman
February 15, 2026 was a day of honor, legacy, and gratitude. It was a day when the international vision of Next Level met the strength and tradition of our art, and when the Sherman community showed that it is ready for something extraordinary.
We are building the future here. We invite you to be part of it.
The journey continues — welcome to Next Level
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