Our Story
Head coach Rich Rodriguez has seen it all in combat sports. From the gritty boxing gyms of old to the modern MMA gyms for those willing to pay top dollar. He soon realized the current gym model excluded those who could most benefit from training. So he started Harlem Free Fight Academy. A place where all youth have equal access to free boxing and jiu jitsu training. A place where ability level doesn’t determine how much attention a coach gives a fighter. A place where everyone can feel free to not only learn, but also share and exchange ideas. We are all one. We are fighters. We are Harlem.
Our Mission
Increase youth engagement through boxing and Brazilian jiu jitsu
Provide mentorship and guidance to youth students
Increase neighborhood awareness through community outreach
Set students up for continued success outside of boxing and jiu jitsu