Growing up in Saddle Brook, NJ, the fighter attended Seton Hall University as a Philosophy major for his first year in college. He then transferred to William Paterson University, where he remains a student, to be closer to his home and training camp at The Edge Ultimate Martial Arts.
Having trained in martial arts since he was 3 years old, J. Rios can be described as a more than well-rounded fighter and instructor.
His experience includes:
- 2nd degree Black Belt in Taekwondo
- 4th degree Black Belt in Sil Jun Do
- 1 Stripe Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- 2009 Black Belt of the Year
- Captain of The Edge Fight Team
The fighter also trains in boxing, Muay Thai, and MMA. All of his training has been under Master Richard Raciti.
He also is currently ranked under the Central Pennsylvania Warrior Challenge. He is ranked third in their Bantamweight Division. Under Evolution MMA, he is the Bantamweight Champion.
As the Director of the KIDS Program at The Edge Ultimate Martial Arts Academy, J. Rios is great with kids and incorporates all that he has learned in fun and innovative ways in his classes. He also provides private lessons to both kids and adults, whether it be for self-defense, competition, or both.
