About Us - Our Story & Philosophy | Submission Labs San Roque

Our Story

High-Level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Grappling in San Roque Submission Labs is a professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and submission grappling academy based in San Roque, Campo de Gibraltar, serving students from Gibraltar, Sotogrande, La Línea, and the wider Costa del Sol.

We specialise in structured, high-quality martial arts instruction focused on real technical development, physical capability, and long-term progression — not shortcuts or gimmicks.

At Submission Labs, we believe in training with purpose. Whether you're a complete beginner looking to learn self-defense, an athlete seeking to compete at the highest levels, or someone wanting to transform their fitness and mindset, we provide the environment, expertise, and community to help you succeed.

USQUE AD MORTEM

Until Death

This isn't just our motto; it's our commitment to excellence, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. We train hard, we support each other, and we never give up. This philosophy permeates everything we do at Submission Labs, from our daily training sessions to our approach to competition and life itself.

Our Values

Excellence

We strive for technical perfection and continuous improvement in every aspect of training.

Community

We build a supportive team environment where everyone helps each other grow and succeed.

Respect

We honor the martial arts tradition, our instructors, training partners, and the journey itself.

Perseverance

We embrace challenges, push through adversity, and never give up on our goals.

Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe Lineage

Our direct connection to Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe represents one of the most prestigious lineages in modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission grappling. This lineage brings world-class technique, proven competition strategies, and a systematic approach to training that has produced champions at the highest levels.

Carlos Gracie Jr.

Legendary Coaching & Innovator

Roberto “Gordo” Corrêa

creator of the modern offensive half-guard position

Chris Thompson & Ben Poppleton

Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe Black Belts

James Holman
Black Belt - Submission Labs

Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe, founded by the legendary Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe, represents the pinnacle of modern no-gi grappling. The team's systematic approach to leg locks, back attacks, and positional dominance has revolutionized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Through his instructors' direct connection to this lineage, James brings these cutting-edge techniques and training methodologies to San Roque.

Our Head Instructor

James Holman

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt

James Holman is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt with deep roots in one of the sport's most successful competition teams. Training under Chris Thompson and Ben Poppleton, both renowned black belts and members of Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe, James brings world-class technique and competition experience to Submission Labs.

With years of competition experience and a passion for teaching, James has developed a comprehensive curriculum that serves everyone from first-day beginners to seasoned competitors. His teaching style emphasizes technical precision, strategic thinking, and the mental toughness required to succeed both on and off the mats.

James's commitment to his students goes beyond technique. He creates an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. His dedication to the Gordo Jiu-Jitsu Europe methodology ensures that students at Submission Labs receive instruction that is at the cutting edge of modern grappling.

ABOUT SUBMISSION LABS