About LionX Martial Arts Academy
About Us
LionX is built on a simple belief: martial arts shapes more than athletes — it shapes confident, disciplined, respectful people. From a child's first step onto the mats to an adult's recovery session, every member belongs to something bigger.
Designed for family experience
Clean, safe, and welcoming from the moment you walk in. Pristine mats and top-tier facilities - because hygiene, safety, and professionalism matter. More than a place to train: a place where families connect and grow together.
Two Separate Mat Spaces
Kids and parents train at the same time - maximizing every visit.
Full Recovery Center
Fully equipped to support wellness, performance, and longevity.
Fitness Area
A dedicated space for strength and conditioning to elevate your fitness and performance.
Comfortable Viewing Areas
Watch your children grow with complete peace of mind.
On-Site Playground
Before class, after class, or while siblings train - kids feel at home.
our team

Lior Ofir
Head Coach

Joel Gandara
Founder
Lior Ofir
Head Coach
Lior Ofir is a second-degree black belt, BJJ World Champion, and former Israeli X-Navy SEAL. His martial arts journey began with Krav Maga, training and coaching various military branches and special forces units worldwide. In 2012, Lior discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, training at over a thousand gyms throughout his competitive career.
He has won multiple world championship titles in both Gi and No-Gi and occasionally leads seminars at academies around the globe. Lior is also the founder of a nonprofit that empowers children and young adults to protect themselves while building self-esteem and confidence.
As a coach, Lior emphasizes open communication, technical expertise, and creating a fun, supportive environment where students can grow both on and off the mats.
Joel Gandara
Founder
Joel began his Jiu-Jitsu journey in September 2020 when he stepped onto the mats for the first time. Since then, he has trained with exceptional consistency through injuries, setbacks, promotions, and plateaus.
His coaching background was shaped by years of mentoring men in discipline, accountability, leadership, mental toughness, and personal development. Those same principles are what drew him to Jiu-Jitsu and continue to bring him back to the mats.
Joel’s role in the academy centers on culture and vision. He is dedicated to building an environment rooted in respect, consistency, and hard work, with strong brotherhood and family values- where beginners feel welcomed, experienced practitioners are challenged, and character matters as much as skill. He supports the instructors, the students, and the long-term mission of creating something that positively impacts lives both on and off the mat.
Join the pride
Walk in, meet the coaches, step on the mat. No pressure, no contract.

