Alex Ecklin BJJ Camp
The Undercover Genius Returns to XP
The Mind Behind the Moves – Meet Alex Ecklin
In the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Alex Ecklin BJJ Camp stands out as more than just a training opportunity it’s where innovation, leadership, and a fresh perspective on the art come together. Known for his sharp techniques and laid-back style, Alex is the kind of professor who transforms how people see and feel Jiu-Jitsu. A third-degree Black Belt under Vitor “Shaolin” Ribeiro (read more about Shaolin Ribeiro on BJJ Heroes), Alex has cemented his legacy not just through titles but through the thriving community he’s built in New York City.
Now, he’s back at XP for the third time, bringing his wealth of knowledge, creativity, and experience to Colombia from March 25th to 30th. For those who don’t know him yet, let’s dig into why Alex Ecklin is someone you don’t want to miss.
A Champion in Every Sense
Alex Ecklin’s competition resume is stacked. As a Brown Belt, he dominated the scene, taking medals at IBJJF Worlds, Europeans, No Gi Pans, and the American Nationals, along with multiple IBJJF International titles. At Black Belt, he’s added gold at No Gi Pans and the Atlanta No-Gi Open in the Masters division. His record isn’t just a list of wins; it’s a testament to years of dedication, precision, and pushing limits.
But Alex’s impact isn’t just on the mats. It’s in the systems he’s developed to make high level Jiu-Jitsu more accessible to everyday practitioners. The most notable? The “G Roll” attack system, which has been featured on platforms like BJJ Fanatics and The Grapplers Guide. If you’re curious to dive deeper into this innovative system, check out Alex Ecklin’s G Roll instructional available here. It’s techniques like these that earned Alex the nickname of an undercover BJJ genius someone who isn’t loud about his brilliance but lets his techniques do the talking.
Masterskya – Building More Than a Gym
Alex Ecklin isn’t just a competitor. He’s also a builder of teams, culture, and communities. In New York City, he co-founded Masterskya, a training space that’s become a hub for serious practitioners and curious beginners alike. Learn more about his gym and its mission at Masterskya’s website. More than just a gym, Masterskya represents the kind of inclusive, no-ego culture that mirrors what we stand for at XP.
But Alex’s journey to building Masterskya didn’t happen overnight. He started teaching at Vitor Shaolin’s gym before developing his own program at Coban’s Muay Thai Camp, where he experimented with teaching styles and curriculum. This experience funneled into the original Masterskya, a 100% donation-based gym in Bushwick, Brooklyn. To avoid overcrowding, the gym operated speakeasy-style, with its address kept private and locations shared only with followers.
This approach brought together practitioners from various gyms, creating a melting pot of styles and techniques. Alex embraced an open-minded philosophy, giving his students the freedom to explore and develop their own styles. This foundation of experimentation and inclusivity has shaped Masterskya into one of New York’s most respected academies.
A Vision Fueled by Consistency
For Alex, Masterskya isn’t just a gym it’s the product of relentless dedication. Since starting BJJ in 2006, Alex has been fully committed to the art, whether training, teaching, or studying. He believes that consistency and forward movement are the keys to growth.
“Even on my days off, I’m thinking about how to get my students better,” Alex shares. His vision is to position Masterskya as one of the top gyms on the East Coast, and eventually, the world. Whether through competitive success or faster progression for hobbyists, Alex’s commitment to his students’ improvement is unwavering.
A Creative Force on the Mats
Alex’s teaching style thrives on creativity. Improvisation and experimentation have always been central to his approach.
“The concepts in BJJ are universal and eternal, but the techniques are not,” he explains. Alex encourages his students to ask, “What if?” and put their own spin on techniques. By fostering individuality, he helps students develop their own styles and personalities on the mats a hallmark of his classes.
This mindset gave rise to the “G Roll” system, a testament to Alex’s ability to innovate and adapt. His focus on free-styling and finding new ways to achieve desired results keeps his teaching dynamic and engaging.
A Third Trip to XP – Raising the Bar in Colombia
We’re honored to have Alex back for the third time at XP. It’s not just his technical brilliance that makes him a perfect fit for our camp it’s his mindset. Alex embodies what XP stands for: pushing limits, exploring the unknown, and building something bigger than ourselves.
When asked what draws him back, Alex credits the XP team Nico, Chavito, and Migue for their heart, dedication, and teamwork.
Supporting the BJJ Community
Alex Ecklin doesn’t stop at his own success. One of his most remarkable traits as a professor is his ability to help students whether hobbyists or aspiring champions accomplish their goals. By using his own teaching system and encouraging students to make the art their own, Alex has guided several to achieve their dreams of becoming world champions at their respective belt levels. He’s also deeply committed to giving back to the sport and helping it grow. Whether he’s mentoring competitors, supporting grassroots efforts, or sharing knowledge through platforms like BJJ Fanatics, Alex is constantly finding ways to move Jiu-Jitsu forward.
His work at XP has also extended to helping the local Colombian BJJ community. Alex has supported up-and-coming young athletes by assisting with competition expenses and helping them improve their technique. Notably, he has inspired grapplers worldwide, such as two brothers from England, Noah and Titan, who flew to Colombia to spend a week learning from him and exploring his unique approach to Jiu-Jitsu. This time, Alex will also work with kids from Calima Combat, further broadening his impact on the next generation of athletes in Colombia.
Words of Wisdom
When it comes to breaking through plateaus, Alex keeps it simple:
“Be open minded, connect with others, don’t be arrogant in your technique or training, and always have a thirst to improve.”
Why You Don’t Want to Miss This Camp
If you’re serious about your Jiu-Jitsu, this is your chance to learn from one of the sharpest minds in the sport. Alex isn’t just a professor; he’s a technician who knows how to break down moves in ways that make them stick. Whether you’re chasing medals or looking to level up your fundamentals, Alex has something for you.
Don’t Miss Out
Alex Ecklin is back, and this camp is set to be one for the books. Whether you’ve trained with him before or this is your first chance, don’t miss the opportunity to learn from a coach who’s redefining what it means to be a Black Belt. Mark your calendar for March 25th–30th, pack your gi, and get ready for an experience that could change your game forever.
Warm regards,
Nico Orrego Founder, BJJ Camp XP