Meet Erik Arias

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Erik Arias. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Erik below.

Hi Erik, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

I think about what makes me unique. For one, I know I stand out and this is intentional to show the positivity of what I’ve been through in life. When people first see me they probably assume I’m a criminal. My body is covered in tattoos, including two new tattoos on my head. I’m Mexican, tall and slim. At the age of 15 I remember choosing to live life in a way that I wasn’t going to be a follower. I want to be different. Who I am attracts the spotlight, which gives me the platform to shine and impact the lives of everyone I meet. When people take the time to get to know me, they learn that I am generous, a great mentor, and a passionate teacher to those who don’t have to learn things the hard way.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m proud to be one half of Arias Bros Jiu Jitsu, alongside my twin brother Robert Arias, who first launched the academy to share our deep passion for jiu jitsu with our community.

As a competitive purple belt with nearly six years of training, jiu jitsu has taken me on an incredible journey I never expected. I’ve had the honor of competing at some of the highest levels in the sport—including as a finalist at the 2024 AJP Grand Slam and the 2020 American Nationals, and earning gold in open weight divisions at several nationally recognized tournaments. I also had the opportunity to compete at the 2023 ADCC East Coast Trials, one of the most prestigious grappling events in the world.

But my journey didn’t start with medals. I originally stepped onto the mats just looking for something positive in my life—and it changed everything. I began training with my brother and his coach, Josh McKinney, in an environment that was encouraging, challenging, and unlike anything I’d experienced before. Within five months, I entered my first competition—and won. That early win set the tone for the kind of athlete I’ve become: known for grit, speed, and a relentless drive that my team now calls “The Dawg Pound.”

I’m incredibly excited about the grand re-opening of Arias Bros Jiu Jitsu in Belleville, IL. Our new space will offer classes for adults, women, and teens, creating a welcoming environment for anyone ready to take the first step on their own jiu jitsu journey. Our mission is simple but powerful—we want to be a catalyst for positive change in our community and show people the life-changing impact this art can have, just like it did for me.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, one thing has always been true—I’m incredibly determined when I set my mind to something. That drive has kept me consistent in my training, even on the days that felt tough.

I’ve learned that I’m willing to grind, no matter the circumstances. Whether I’m tired, sore, or not feeling my best, I show up. And every time I do, I leave feeling better—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

If you’re just starting jiu jitsu, my advice is simple: just stick with it. Know that the worse person on the mat is still better than someone who never touches it.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I go the gym and train to clear my head. I also use focused breathing exercises. As a man who sometimes struggles with anxiety, I have learned techniques over the years to help manage the uncomfortable feelings. Jiu Jitsu has been a big part of my healing journey, which is partly why I train so often. It keeps me grounded.

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