I have been meaning to reach out to Josef to share my experience and thank him but what better way to do it than on here for all to see. I work at a preschool and often deal with children facing delays socially, cognitively or both. About 3 months ago, I recommended Cutting Edge BJJ to a student who was having trouble with focusing and with speech. In addition, she had some social-emotional issues (very shy, wouldn't speak to adults, etc) Mom was thinking about putting her in karate to see if that would help. That's when I suggested she go meet Josef and try out a class. Keep in mind, that school started in Sept and she was already in 'the system' waiting to be approved for speech therapy and/or occupational therapy at school. Time kept passing and with one delay after another, it was already March and nothing yet. That's when she started training. Within 2 weeks, the teacher asked me if I knew what was going with hee because she was doing so well and so much better in school. I said the only thing I could attribute it to was that she had started jiu-jitsu. I can only speak because I saw it for myself. She can focus, she answers open ended questions, her speech has improved dramatically, she is now friendly and outgoing! Granted her parents take her 4x a week but the improvement she has made in the past 3 months are incredible! Thank you so much for whatever it is that you are doing! You probably don't even realize the impact you are having on these young children. In this case, it is personal because she is my cousin. I thank you for helping her to break out of her shell. Her smile and confidence are contagious now (before she would hide from us, her family) Her improvement in school can be documented via the different assessment tools that the teachers use. Her score went up in every area! I tell everyone I can and recommend you to all parents when they tell me they want to put their child in 'karate.' I ask if they've considered jiu-jitsu instead and that they should go do a trial class with you! They probably think we are related as highly as I speak of you and your program! Once again THANK YOU. Continue doing what you do! And I can't wait for my 1 year old to be old enough to start! read more

I had the pleasure of being introduced to Professor Josef through a mutual friend back in 2004 when Cutting Edge was established. Back then, I was interested in trying to get in shape and learn some cool techniques in the process. I could never have imagined the significant life changing experience and transformation that I was about to go through. Under the tutelage of Josef and with the support of my now "brothers" in jiu-jitsu, I have not only learned countless Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Striking techniques but I have embraced everything about the Cutting Edge Brazilian Jiu Jitsu "lifestyle". My diet is cleaner and healthier than it has ever been and I've pushed myself physically beyond any limits I could have imagined. If I could choose just one thing that has influenced me the most about CEBJJ though, I would have to say it's the attitude there. The willingness to help each other, friendly attitude and hard but safe training is what brings me back on the mats time and again. It has made it easy for those that want to compete to train hard but injury free, while at the same time allowing those that just want to learn the art to enjoy themselves on the mat. I have made countless friendships that I will have there for a lifetime. So, if you're looking for a great place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Striking at the highest levels in a safe, friendly and healthy environment stop in and talk to Professor Josef. He will make you an offer that is impossible to refuse. Osu! read more

I was introduced to Cutting Edge Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by a friend and I have been training at Cutting Edge for about 2 years where it has transformed my very being. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has made me more confident, assertive, and gotten me in shape. Over that timespan I have dropped from 198 lbs to 165 lbs and my love for the martial art has continued to flourish. Cutting Edge has an excellent clean environment and a family/community like atmosphere that is very welcoming (which is constantly reinforced by the head instructor Professor Josef Manuel). Professor Manuel will always put in the effort to make you a better person and Jiu-Jitsu player and expects you to do the same. I hope (and plan) to continue to practice this beautiful art for the rest of my life and keep training at this wonderful Academy. You will not regret signing up at Cutting Edge. read more

I have been training in martial arts since the 70s, including two different BJJ schools before coming to Cutting Edge. Josef has created something unique at this unassuming gym in Harrison. Truly world class Jiu Jitsu instruction is delivered in an atmosphere that is friendly, engaging and supportive. The culture of the dojo is one where everyone is striving to improve their Jiu Jitsu, but are also heavily invested in the learning experience of the student next to them. The training is not easy, but the results speak for themselves. I have lost fifty pounds since I started training and am in better shape on the cusp of 50 than I was in my early thirties. If you are interested in training martial arts I encourage you to stop by and see for yourself. read more

Professor Manuel is an outstanding instructor. I had the honor of attending a recent seminar and was blown away with his level of Professionalism and knowledge. He breaks each move down and explains not only how, but why you should do things a certain way. I have trained in many different gyms, in several different styles, and with some marque level names, but in my personal opinion Joseph's ability to articulate what he is demonstrating truly sets him apart. I had an opportunity to get to know Professor Manuel outside the gym after the seminar and can truly attest to his down to earth attitude and his dedication to improving BJJ training for everyone, even those that don't attend his school. OSS! read more

I have been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts for over ten years. I have now been at Cutting Edge for six year and I have finally found my home sweet home. Prof. Josef Manuel is one of the most knowledgeable instructors that I have ever been trained by. His instruction is clear, concise, and developed in a manner for you to see results immediately. My training has leveled up immensely since I made CEBJJ my home. I would highly recommend this academy to anyone interested in joining a real team orientated environment for lifelong experience in martial arts. read more

I've had the privilege to learn from Professor Josef Manuel, who simply doesn't show you a technique, but explains why you are making the small moves within the "big picture". This is important whether you are looking for self defense or training to compete. Besides your training, knowing the rules, terms and point system is vital to being successful when you compete. These rules and terms are used throughout the classes so you are accustomed to them. No matter your reason to train, you won't find a better facility to help you reach your goals. read more

Cutting Edge is a fantastic place to train. A very welcoming environment with high level instruction. Sensei Josef Manuel invests himself into all of his students to help them meet their own goals both on and off the mat. Despite what people might think about a combat sport it really is for everyone, and Cutting Edge has done a great job to keep a controlled, respectful environment for everyone to train safely and learn. I would recommend any interested in the benefits of martial arts to check out this academy. read more

CEBJJ is absolutely a must for all comers who want to learn to survive on the street or compete, you can get get the best of both worlds. Sensei Josef will push you to your limits so you are able to defend yourself or your family in a real world environment. I been training at CEBJJ for several years now and I don't regret it one bit! The knowledge I have gained is priceless. I encourage everyone to visit Cutting Edge Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and empower themselves! See you on the mat! MDN read more