There are days that remind me why I started this unique journey of combining Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the world of live music.
Yesterday, I traveled to Ruhrpott Rodeo 2026 in Hünxe, Germany, to spend another unforgettable day backstage with my friends from Biohazard. What began a few years ago as a simple training session has grown into a genuine friendship built on mutual respect, discipline, and a shared passion for pushing ourselves every day.
The trip itself was an adventure. What should have been a 3½-hour drive turned into nearly five hours because of heavy traffic, roadworks, and countless detours. But some friendships are worth every extra kilometer, and as soon as I arrived, I knew the journey had been worth it.
One of the highlights of the day was catching up with Billy Graziadei, someone I’ve had the privilege of training with on several occasions over the past few years. No matter how busy a festival schedule is, Billy always makes time for friends. His dedication to both music and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to inspire me, and every conversation with him leaves me motivated to keep growing.
It was also great to see Bobby Hambel again. Bobby is exactly the kind of person you hope your heroes turn out to be—friendly, humble, approachable, and always willing to take a moment to catch up. Moments like these remind me that behind legendary bands are genuine people who appreciate the same values we practice every day on the mats.
Watching Danny Schuler perform from close to the stage was another unforgettable experience. His precision, power, and energy behind the drums perfectly reflect the intensity that has made Biohazard one of hardcore’s most influential bands for decades.
Experiences like this continue to reinforce my mission with Backstage Jiu-Jitsu. My goal has never been simply to teach techniques. It’s about creating opportunities for touring musicians to train safely while they’re on the road, helping them stay active, relieve stress, and experience the positive impact that Jiu-Jitsu can have, even during the busiest tour schedules.
Every backstage session, every conversation, and every friendship reminds me how incredible it is to see two worlds that I love—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and hardcore music—coming together.
A huge thank you to Billy, Bobby, Danny and Evan, the entire Biohazard family, and everyone at Ruhrpott Rodeo for another unforgettable day.
I’m already looking forward to the next chapter.