The leader of Elite Team Visalia, Tom Knox has had quite the life story. Originally living in the LA area, Tom started training judo at 4 years old and eventually earned his black belt there. To go along with that, he also earned the same in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu while also achieving the status of pro skateboarder as well. He’s competed at the highest levels of that sort and continues to make his presence in that scene.
One might say this is an interest dichotomy of interests but Tom makes it work. He’s a thrill seeker and doer at heart who pursues his passions, whatever they may be. And how could you not respect someone like that?
Knox steps onto the F2W stage for his latest challenge when he takes on BJJ OG Alan Marques, AKA “Gumby” of OTM, in a 180 lbs. black belt gi match.
And this happens tonight.
Read on before this matchup at Fight 2 Win 96.
Tom, you’re a pretty interesting guy, right? Tell us a little about yourself and your story.
My name is Tom Knox, I am a 3rd degree black belt in jiu jitsu and have been training for 19 years in jiu-jitsu, I am 47 years old. I am also a second-degree black belt in judo and started judo when I was 4 years old. I am a 3X IBJJF Pan masters black belt champion, 2X IBJJF European masters black belt champion, 2X IBJJF Asian masters black belt champion ,4X IBJJF World masters black belt bronze medalist and the 2017 IBJJF South American masters black belt champion. I am also a professional skateboarder and have been since I was 16 for Santa Cruz skateboards, some people might say I am sort of well-known in that sport, lol.
Congratulations on all your accomplishments. You’re definitely living life! Where does jiu jitsu fit into the grand scheme of things for you?
Jiu jitsu is my life! Skateboarding and jiu-jitsu are the lifestyle I live, breathe, and do every day. I am so grateful to have made my living doing 2 things I love and respect!
What’s your schedule like?
I train 3 times a day on Monday and Wednesday, I train 1 time per day on Tuesday and Thursday, 2 times on Friday, strength and conditioning and jiu-jitsu on Saturday, rest on Sunday. Saturday and Sunday usually includes some hardcore skateboarding somewhere as well. I am kept motivated to train by my students, I want to lead by example.
When I am not training, I skate. I am also constantly thinking about new training methods or thinking of new ways of marketing my academy. I enjoy jiu-jitsu 24 hours per day! But yeah, I still love skateboarding and if I am not on the mat, I’m on my board.
What else do you want to accomplish?
The number 1 thing I want is the best kids’ jiu-jitsu program around, and we are getting there! We have so many kids pan champions and some of the best teens and young adults in the world, all homegrown talent, bred not bought! I am also predicting that within 6 years we will have 2 black belt adult world champions!
What’s one difficult thing you’ve had to overcome so far?
Injuries are always there, but the death of my mother and brother were hard. My mom died 6 days before pans 2016, which happened to be the first year I won as a black belt! Also, my brother was my judo training partner for many years and a big influence on my stand-up game…
This match at F2W 96 – why did you decide to compete?
F2W 96 is basically in my backyard! I live in Visalia, Ca about 30 minutes from Fresno, I don’t get many chances to compete so close to home, so all my students can watch. Plus, I love what Fight 2 Win is doing and they have the best produced show around! A true professional experience!
How do you feel about the match with Gumby?
I prepare for every match, tournament the same. I am ready to fight 5,6,7 matches in one day, so 1 match is easy. I NEVER prepare for the opponent, I prepare to enforce my game and my will on them!
Any last words?
I want to say a huge thanks to ALL my students and training partners and coaches. I feel so happy to have the most supportive academy with dedicated tough students, I fight for them!
I also want to say a huge thanks to Moya Brand for their support of my jiu-jitsu career and helping support some of my students. Also, a huge thanks to my skateboarding sponsor for 30 years, Santa Cruz skateboards and Independent trucks.
