The Gym

About Us – Gym Jitsu Allen

At Gym Jitsu Allen, we believe Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than a sport—it’s a way to become a better version of yourself. Co-founders Kayvon Rahbar and David Akina built this academy with a shared dream: to create a world-class facility that brings the life-changing power of martial arts to everyone, delivered with authenticity, excellence, and heart.

Our story begins with Kayvon’s transformation. With a degree in Economics and a career as a stock market analyst, Big 4 management consultant, and real estate developer, Kayvon was no stranger to challenge. But after being laid off from his real estate development job, he spent over 18 months searching for work, 40 pounds overweight and craving purpose. A former high school wrestler and college football player, he stumbled into a BJJ academy, drawn by its resemblance to wrestling. What started as a way to get back into space and lose weight sparked a passion that became an obsession. For Kayvon, Gym Jitsu Allen is the realization of a lifelong dream to own his own business—a dream fulfilled in the most unexpected, profound, and joyful way. By his side is his wife, Clarisse, the brains of the operation with her Harvard MBA, and their two infant children, Rose (2) and Rocco (12 weeks as of the Grand Opening), whose energy fuels our family-owned academy.

Kayvon’s journey converged with David’s at their former BJJ academy, where their vision for something greater took root. David Akina, a serial entrepreneur with a knack for building businesses, brings an unmatched passion for BJJ to the table. With over 25 years of experience on the mats and a reputation as an obsessive competitor, David knows firsthand the transformative power of BJJ. It reshaped his life, and now he’s driven to share that impact with others. For David, BJJ isn’t just about technique—it’s about helping people grow stronger, more resilient, and more connected to themselves and their community. Together, Kayvon and David turned their idea into reality in just six months, creating a space where lives are changed through martial arts.

As a family-owned, local business, we’re proud to be part of the Allen, TX story. Our mission is clear: to help every student become better—mentally, physically, emotionally, and morally—through the power of martial arts.

What Sets Us Apart

BJJ Allen is built on three core principles:

1. World-Class Instruction: We partner with elite instructors, empowering them as stakeholders to deliver unparalleled training.
2. A Modern Dojo Experience: Our state-of-the-art facility blends the traditional spirit of a Japanese dojo with modern comforts, creating an environment where students thrive.
3. Holistic Recovery: We provide recovery programs to support students through the ups and downs of training, ensuring they can keep growing.

Martial Arts is challenging—because anything rewarding is. But with world-class coaching, a tight-knit community, and a facility designed for transformation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Join us at Gym Jitsu, where we don’t just train—we change lives.