KOMUNAL JIU JITSU
Excellence and success that don’t ask you to abandon your quality of life. A professor who put family and school next to world titles.
Train with a professor that prioritizes you, whether you’re brand new or preparing to compete at the IBJJF Worlds.
Head Instructor and Founder
Professor Rolando Samson
Born and raised right here in San Diego, Rolando Samson shattered the myth that elite Jiu-Jitsu success requires sacrificing education, work and family. He dominated the competition scene while excelling academically—winning IBJJF World titles during high school and college. He is known as one of the most talented athletes of his generation.
A standout example: During his senior year at San Diego State University (SDSU), training just twice a week to prioritize studies, he earned 2nd place at the IBJJF World Championships while not only graduating, but also made the Dean’s List.
One more incredible example of unprecedented achievement: His second daughter was born in late April, followed by his first daughter’s birthday party in May. During that time, he barely trained at all, and competing at the 2025 IBJJF Worlds wasn’t even a thought. Yet on the very last day of registration, he decided to enter—and went on to win the IBJJF World Championship Black Belt Middleweight Silver Medal.
Putting family first while still reaching the absolute top level of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. That’s true excellence on and off the mat.
His entire career has been clean, with no performance-enhancing substances.
Education
Emory Elementary
Eastlake Middle School
Eastlake High School
Southwestern College (AA)
San Diego State University (BS in Kinesiology) – Dean’s List
Why KOMUNAL Jiu Jitsu
Rolando is a renowned World Class competitor and professor, who brings an unrivaled ability to teach intricate techniques with clarity, detail, respect, and care—making complex concepts accessible to everyone. His talent for teaching, coaching and motivating is unparalleled, just ask anyone who attended any of his classes, privates and/or seminars.
He’s also an outstanding father, husband, and a genuinely one-of-a-kind human being, a collective statement known worldwide.
San Diego’s own elite competitor and instructor —Rolando Samson— is your chance to train and be taught by one of the best in the world.Helps students sharpen timing, conditioning, and match strategy. Focused on game-planning, situational rounds, and sustainable training habits.