Carlos Raba is a family man, chef, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt. He is the founder of Guardian Gym Baltimore, located next to his award winning restaurant, Clavel.

Jiu Jitsu has had a profound impact on Carlos. His experiences during training have helped him manage uncomfortable situations and difficult emotions that everyday life throws at him. In addition, it also “has provided the friendships and the lessons that shaped me to be who I am… that is the reason why it’s in my routine and one that I want to mentor and share… I believe if everyone was exposed to a good roll, the world would be more humble and patient.”

I began training Jiu-Jitsu as a young kid growing up in Hawaii. I came to Baltimore in 2019 for school, and it was here that I began teaching at the Hopkins Jiu-Jitsu Club and Guardian Baltimore.

I love seeing how the gym becomes a place where people can have fun, train with friends, and meet new people. Watching the beautiful community that's blossomed here at Guardian has been incredibly rewarding, and I'm excited to keep growing it.

Hope to see you on the mats!

Hi there! My name is Emily and I started training in 2019. I am especially passionate about supporting women in the sport and fostering an inclusive environment on the mats.

As an educator by profession, teaching jiu jitsu has been such a gratifying experience and I am excited to continue learning and growing with my teammates at Guardian Baltimore.

Come train!

My name is Evan and I’ve been doing jiu jitsu since 2019. I started training at my old Taekwondo gym back in New Jersey when one of my old instructors moved back and started teaching BJJ before moving to Baltimore for college in 2021.

I’ve been teaching martial arts for a large portion of my life and am grateful to get to keep teaching here at Guardian. It’s been a welcoming and supportive community for me and I hope to make it the same for every student that steps on the mats. This community means the world to me and I’m excited to help it grow.

I started training when I was 12 years old. I joined through Guardian Baltimore's Scholarship Program. When I turned 16, I earned my blue belt. Right away, I started helping coach the same kids program that I grew up in.

It feels amazing to give back to Guardian Baltimore. I want to help kids get the same chance I was given. BJJ helped me grow into a better person. Now I get to help kids find that same chance to grow.