The Graham County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the grand opening of Onyx Jiu-Jitsu Checkmat in downtown Safford on Friday, Jan. 3, 2026, at 408 W. Main St.

The opening marks an exciting addition to the activity and skill based businesses in Downtown Safford.

The public is invited to attend a ribbon cutting and participate in special classes and open-mat sessions as Onyx Jiu-Jitsu officially opens its doors alongside members of the Checkmat family, including representatives from Checkmat Phoenix and Exodus Jiu-Jitsu.

The event will begin at 11 a.m. with a formal ribbon cutting hosted by the Graham County Chamber of Commerce.

Speakers include Danny Smith, speaking on behalf of the Downtown Association Board, Jason Hensley, coach at Exodus Jiu-Jitsu, sharing remarks on the partnership and the expansion of jiu-jitsu opportunities in the region; and Tommy Schnell, head instructor at Onyx Jiu-Jitsu.

“I’ve trained at gyms across Phoenix and Tucson. What makes a place special isn’t just the mats or instruction—it’s the feeling when you walk in. That’s what we’re building here: a place where kids gain confidence, women feel supported, and the sport of jiu-jitsu meets real community.”, Schnell said.

The event schedule includes a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., a parents and kids class at 11:15 a.m., a women’s class at 11:45 a.m., an adults class at 12:15 p.m., and a community open mat at 12:45 p.m.

Event highlights include belt promotions, classes led by Exodus Jiu-Jitsu, a community open mat, and facility tours and instructor meet-and-greet opportunities.

Onyx Jiu-Jitsu invites local residents, athletes, families and newcomers to celebrate this milestone and experience the supportive environment being created for the Gila Valley.

For more information, visit onyxbjj.com or follow @onyxjiujitsu on social media.