In the heart of South Phoenix, Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu stands as a beacon for community-driven martial arts, thanks to the passion and vision of its founder, Professor Darrell Taylor. A Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Robert Drysdale, an IBJJF and ADCC champion, Darrell established Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu in 2013 with a clear mission: to create an academy where respect, culture, and camaraderie are at the core. This isn’t just a place to train; it’s a team grounded in shared values and a dedication to building a positive environment.
Darrell’s approach to Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu is unique. Rather than simply growing in numbers, he is selective in choosing students who align with the academy’s values and “vibe,” ensuring each new member is a good fit for the positive culture they’ve built. This intentional approach has shaped the gym into a close-knit family, where every student feels like a valued part of something greater. It’s this environment of respect and camaraderie that has solidified Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu’s reputation.
Since 2015, Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu has proudly been affiliated with Zenith Jiu-Jitsu under the mentorship of Robert Drysdale, a renowned figure in the Jiu-Jitsu world. This affiliation has not only added to the gym’s prestige but also provided students with access to an internationally respected network within the Jiu-Jitsu community. Training under the Zenith banner has empowered students to develop their skills under a world-class system and provided them with a sense of pride in their association.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu is its strong connection with South Phoenix’s vibrant Hispanic community. Over the years, Darrell has embraced the cultural heritage of his students, many of whom come from Hispanic backgrounds. This connection deepened further when Darrell faced a personal injury and needed time to recover. During that time, his students and their families rallied around him, providing care, meals, and unwavering support. This experience only strengthened his commitment to creating a gym that truly feels like family—a place where people can lean on each other in and out of the gym.
For Darrell, community is everything. His students are more than training partners; they are an extension of his family. Every class, every seminar, and every belt ceremony at Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu reinforces this commitment to building a supportive, uplifting community that stands by each other through life’s ups and downs. Darrell’s goal for the future is to continue growing the academy, not just in numbers but as a positive force within South Phoenix—honoring the cultural diversity that makes the gym so special.
With the success and reputation of Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu, there’s no doubt we’ll see even greater things ahead. Darrell Taylor’s vision has not only put South Phoenix on the map for Jiu-Jitsu but has created a legacy of respect, culture, and family that will inspire future generations.
Stay tuned for more from Like Minded Jiu-Jitsu!
