Julio Rivera
Julio Angel Rivera is a New York City writer, mental health advocate, and self-defense coach. The Brazilian jiu jitsu, judo, and Japanese jiu jitsu black belt has also taught kickboxing, MMA, and Krav Maga. Decades of training have shaped his fighting philosophy, but just as important has been Julio’s experience with mental illness, trauma recovery, mindset, and emotional regulation. In 2018, he sold his martial arts academy to focus on writing, private instruction, and corporate workshops.
A former world masters jiu jitsu champion who is open about his mental and emotional struggles, Julio’s first book, Brokedown Sensei: How I Fought Trauma and Bipolar Disorder From the Outside In, is available on Amazon. His new book, Internal Jiu Jitsu: Conquering Mind and Body Resistance by Giving Way, was released in May 2025.