Tony Vachirakorntong

My martial arts journey began because I was bullied growing up as an immigrant from Thailand. I wanted to learn how to protect myself, and that decision changed the course of my life.

​

I began training in Kung Fu in 1986 as a teenager before transitioning to Kenpo Karate, where I earned my black belt in 1997. In 2011, I started training in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Aikido. I earned the rank of brown belt in Aikido, but eventually chose to dedicate my full attention to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

 

In December 2020, I earned my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt from Epic Fight & Fitness. A few months later, in April 2021, I opened Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Weatherford, where I have proudly served our community ever since. I also earned my First Degree Black Belt through Gracie University, and today our academy is a proud Pedro Sauer affiliate, teaching the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu curriculum.

 

Teaching martial arts is more than a career—it’s a calling. I am grateful to share this journey with my children as a family-owned business. It is a privilege to help people develop the confidence, skills, and mindset to protect themselves and their loved ones. Watching students grow in both ability and self-confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.