Love this place Sensei Starks has done an amazing job and the massage studio beautiful!!!
About Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy
Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy (DBJ) is a unique self-defense art that focuses on teaching students to respond to realistic scenarios efficiently. The dojo, led by Grandmaster Starks and his wife Julia, provides a welcoming environment for both adults and children to grow mentally and physically stronger.
DBJ's curriculum covers a wide range of combat techniques, including percussive strikes, stress factor strikes, joint locks, throws, takedowns, and submission holds. Students also learn to use and defend against conventional weapons. The dojo promotes a healthy fight culture and produces the next generation of dedicated warriors.
The academy follows a traditional style of Jujutsu called Gyawn Atiko Jujutsu, and students must earn their promotions through set tests. Belt giving is not a common practice at DBJ.
Students of all levels, including those with experience in wrestling, boxing, and Judo, have praised DBJ for its exceptional teaching methods and supportive community. The dojo's students become part of a growing family and legacy, and the academy is highly recommended for anyone interested in learning martial arts or self-defense in the Chicagoland area.
DBJ's approach to martial arts instruction has been featured in Deadly Art Of Survival (15th Edition), and the dojo offers a variety of facilities, including mats, a full boxing ring, and an MMA cage. Overall, DBJ is a one-of-a-kind dojo that provides students with a unique and effective martial arts experience.
Reviews
My son has been a part of this dojo since 8/13/2024, and I can honestly say joining was one of the best decisions we made. Trust me, it hasn’t always been easy. Growth, discipline, confidence, and learning how to push through challenges does not happen overnight. It’s a marathon, not a race.
When I first enrolled him, I was hesitant and unsure, but over time this dojo became so much more than a place to train — we gained a family. The instructors genuinely care for these children like they are their own. They encourage them, hold them accountable, support them, and truly want to see them succeed in every aspect of life.
I’ve watched my son grow mentally, emotionally,… read full review
I've been studying and training at the DBJ dojo for nearly two years and it's been one of the best combat experiences! This is coming from a 4 year wrestler who also has nearly 2 years of boxing (training only), minor Judo trianing in Cameroon, and a handful of months at a Gracie Academy. Not only does the dojo uphold its set principles and values, but it also pushes its students to do the same. Strikes are taught off the rip because they're woven into the curriculum; and by extension, your technique. Under Grandmaster Starks, if you take it seriously, you'll become a legit student under the Gyawn Atiko Jujutsu system-a more traditional style of Jujutsu. Belts aren't… read full review
Photos

Hours
Good to know
- wheelchair accessible
- accepts credit cards
- private lot parking
- bike parking
Location
Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy, 2649 East 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60649
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