Xcell BJJ Wellington
Our Instructors
World-class black belts with decades of competition and teaching experience — dedicated to your growth on and off the mats.
Head Instructor & co-Founder
Professor Fernando Rodriguez
Fernando Rodriguez is the co-founder of Xcell BJJ Wellington and a 3rd degree black belt with over 15 years of coaching experience. His teaching philosophy is built on technical precision, mental toughness, and creating a family-first culture on the mats. Fernando has developed hundreds of students from complete beginners to competitive black belts.
15+
Yrs Training
15+
Yrs Coaching
Highlights
- 3rd Degree Black Belt
- 15+ years of coaching experience
- Hundreds of students promoted across all belt levels
- Competitive background at regional and national level
Fernando Rodriguez & Jorge Santiago — the coaches behind Xcell BJJ Wellington
head instructor & co-founder
Professor Jorge Santiago
Jorge Santiago is a Jiu Jitsu World Champion, UFC veteran and black belt who brings elite-level competition experience to the Xcell BJJ mats. Having competed at the highest levels of mixed martial arts and grappling, Jorge's insight into real-world application of BJJ is unmatched. His classes blend high-level technique with the intensity of a professional fighter's mindset.
30+
Yrs Training
20+
Yrs Coaching
Highlights
- UFC Veteran
- Professional MMA career at the highest level
- Elite grappling and submission wrestling background
- Proven competitor in international BJJ events
Instructor
coach Anthony Rodriguez
Anthony Rodriguez is a black belt who has been competing and coaching since 2018. Anthony brings a sharp technical game and a passion for developing students at every level. His competitive experience and dedication to the craft make him a cornerstone of the Xcell coaching staff.
10+
Years Training
6+
Years Coaching
Competition Highlights
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt
- Active competitor at regional and national tournaments
- Consistent podium finishes across multiple divisions
Specialties
Train With the Best
Come experience world-class instruction firsthand. Your first class is on us.