Pictured are Fillmore’s Ethan Genest, Theo Zendejas and Arsen Arushanyan after getting their medals at the American Grappling Federation (AGF) Tournament held at Moorpark High School. Photo credit Michael Torres.

By Michael Torres
On Saturday, June 7th- Moorpark, CA – Fillmore jiu-jitsu athletes delivered a dominant performance at the American Grappling Federation (AGF) Tournament, held this past weekend at Moorpark High School, earning 1st Place in the Kids Gi Division, 1st Place in the Kids No-Gi Division, and securing the title of Overall 1st Place Team.

The team trains out of Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio in Fillmore, CA, under the leadership of Professor Michael Torres, a Gracie Humaitá black belt under Professor Mario Aiello. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground control, leverage, and submissions to neutralize opponents.

Fillmore’s young competitors set the tone early with standout performances in both Gi and No-Gi divisions. Many students competed in both brackets and showed excellent versatility, discipline, and composure.

Ethan Brock Genest –Boys 8-9 yrs. Gray Belt- 1st Place (Gi), 1st Place (No-Gi)
Mateo Dela Cruz – Boys 12 -13 yrs. Yellow Belt, 2nd Place (Gi)
Danny Izquerdo – Boys 10-11 yrs. Gray Belt, 1st Place (Gi), 1st Place (No-Gi)
Maya Ramirez – Girls 8-9 yrs. Gray Belt, 2nd Place (Gi), 2nd Place (No-Gi)
Theo Zendejas – Boys 8-9 yrs. Gray Belt, 2nd Place (Gi)
Xjavier Zendejas – Boys 10- 11 yrs. Gray Belt, 2nd Place (No-Gi), 3rd Place (Gi)
Zeke Zendejas – Boys 6-7 yrs. Gray Belt, 2nd Place (Gi), 3rd Place (No-Gi)
Leo Zendejas Jr. – Boys 11-12 yrs. Gray Belt, 1st Place (No-Gi), 3rd Place (Gi)
Fillmore’s youth team showed exceptional heart and technical ability. Danny Izquerdo and Ethan Brock Genest stood out with double gold medal finishes, while the Zendejas family displayed excellence with multiple podium placements.

The adult athletes continued the club’s success with strong podium finishes across divisions:
Luis Ixta – Adult White Belt Middleweight, 3rd Place (Gi)
Raul Santa Rosa – Adult Blue Belt Cruiserweight, 1st Place (Gi), 1st Place (No-Gi)
Vincent Vergara – Adult White Belt Welterweight, 3rd Place (No-Gi)
Leo Zendejas – Adult Blue Belt Welterweight, 2nd Place (Gi), 3rd Place (No-Gi)
19 year old, Raul Santa Rosa, who has been training for 4 years, and is undefeated in his last two tournaments led the adult group with a powerful double gold performance, while Leo Zendejas contributed medals in both categories.

“The team came in prepared to give their best, and the students delivered with focus, heart, and integrity,” said Professor Michael Torres. “It’s not just about winning—it’s about growth, discipline, and supporting each other on and off the mat. I’m extremely proud of every member of this team.”
Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio offers classes for kids and adults and is committed to developing martial artists of all ages through structured training, discipline, loyalty, and respect. For more information email: fillmorebjj@gmail.com or text: 805-443-8501.