About Us

The Legacy and Lineage of Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne

Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne is part of a deep and respected lineage, tracing back to some of the most influential figures in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our academy stands on the foundation of knowledge, discipline, and technical excellence, passed down through generations of world-class practitioners.

Axis Jiu-Jitsu Japan – The Beginning of Our Legacy

Our journey starts with Axis Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Japan, one of the first official Gracie Jiu-Jitsu academies in the country. Established in 1997 by Takamasa Watanabe, the academy was originally known as Gracie Japan before evolving into Axis Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

Takamasa Watanabe is a Rickson Gracie black belt and was instrumental in bringing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Japan. His dedication to the art and commitment to preserving its core principles have influenced countless practitioners worldwide.

Axis Jiu-Jitsu Australia – The Expansion

From Japan, the Axis lineage extended to Australia through Jason Roebig, a key figure in the Australian Jiu-Jitsu scene. Jason received his black belt from both Takamasa Watanabe and Kron Gracie, strengthening his technical foundation with direct influences from two of the most respected names in the sport.

It was Takamasa Watanabe who introduced Jason to Rickson Gracie, a meeting that profoundly changed Jason’s perspective on Jiu-Jitsu. Rickson’s unique philosophy and approach to the art had a major impact on Jason’s understanding of connection, breathwork, and efficiency. As a result, Jason went on to become, and still is the official representative of Rickson Gracie in Australia, bringing Rickson’s principles to the Australian Jiu-Jitsu community.

Jason’s teachings emphasize fundamentals, pressure, and technical mastery, ensuring that every student learns Jiu-Jitsu in its most effective and efficient form.

Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne – Posture, Connection & Breathwork

Carrying forward this incredible legacy, Robbie Aardoom opened Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne, after receiving his black belt from Professor Jason Roebig. 

What makes Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne unique is Robbie’s integration of posture, movement, and breathing principles into his teaching. As an expert in posture and movement mechanics, Robbie has layered his deep knowledge of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) into his Jiu-Jitsu practice. This expertise allows students to better understand the power behind Rickson Gracie’s and Jason Roebig’s concepts of connection and breathwork.

By focusing on postural alignment, breathing mechanics, and efficient movement, Robbie helps students unlock a deeper level of control, power, and fluidity in their Jiu-Jitsu—making techniques more effective with less effort.

At Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne, we stay true to the core values of our lineage—efficiency, control, adaptability, and deep technical understanding. We provide a welcoming yet challenging training environment, where students of all levels can build their skills and confidence while becoming part of a worldwide legacy.

When you train at Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne, you’re not just learning techniques—you’re developing a foundation of movement, breath, and connection that enhances every aspect of your Jiu-Jitsu journey.

Welcome to Axis Jiu-Jitsu Melbourne!