MIGUEL TOPETE ”Muay Thai King”
Miguel Norberto Topete began his martial arts journey in Obregón, Sonora, Mexico, at a gym called Spiritu Forte, which focused on self-defense jiu-jitsu. His path toward combat sports began at age 15, when he was first introduced to boxing. A friendly challenge from a blue-belt classmate—ending in a swift double-leg takedown and armbar—ignited his passion for jiu-jitsu. He joined Spiritu Forte the very next day and has been training ever since.
What inspired Miguel to train was witnessing violence in his community and realizing the harm it brought to those unprepared to defend themselves. His motivation has always been survival, not dominance. Alongside that, his love for martial arts and anime—especially Dragon Ball Z—made the pursuit even more meaningful. Now a brown belt with over 13 years of experience, Miguel embodies both discipline and creativity on the mat.
Among his greatest influences is Daniel Grippaudo, his first mentor and teacher at TBJJ. Miguel also draws inspiration from legends like Georges St-Pierre, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Israel Adesanya, Anderson Silva, and Saenchai. His fighting style is creative, explosive, unorthodox, and top-heavy, with a particular fondness for the omoplata sweep from closed guard.
Though he avoids the word “pride,” Miguel takes deep joy in his accomplishments, including multiple AZBJJL state titles at purple belt and a victory in his brown belt debut. Overcoming injuries and refusing to quit have become central to his sense of dignity and gratitude.
His philosophy in jiu-jitsu is simple but fierce: “Kill or be killed. All in or all out.” To Miguel, jiu-jitsu is a lifelong journey of self-determination and growth—an art form that saved his life by pulling him away from a dangerous path and instilling discipline, perseverance, and faith.
Quoting Rickson Gracie, Miguel often reminds others, “Our fears don’t stop death. They stop life.” He believes the hardest belt to earn is white, because it takes courage to start and endure discomfort. For those who persist, the reward is an unbreakable community and a life-changing experience.
Today, Miguel proudly calls The Eyrie his home gym, where he looks forward to helping grow the Muay Thai team and putting our warriors on the map
JOrge “the warrior” juarez
Jorge Juarez is an ISSA-certified Strength and Conditioning Coach with more than a decade of experience guiding individuals toward their fitness objectives.
A United States Marine Corps Combat Veteran and former professional MMA fighter, he is also an active competitor and trains at The Eyrie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Tucson, Arizona.
Jorge specializes in developing strength, explosive power, and cardiovascular endurance with an emphasis in mobility and recovery modalities that are essential for combat sports.
He also runs The Eyrie’s Homeschool Jiu Jitsu Club and is a certified ESA Vendor.
Dedicated to clients of all experience levels, he is committed to optimizing performance, and helping individuals achieve their desired physique. His training philosophy emphasizes building consistency through daily habits, ensuring safe, effective, and personalized programs tailored to each client’s needs.
With a proven track record, Jorge has successfully assisted numerous clients in overcoming injuries, increasing strength, and realizing their full fitness potential.
Coach Jorge also is running our ESA Home Schooling program Mondays and Wednesday 12:30-2PM.
Ready to embark on a transformative fitness journey? Contact Jorge Juarez at (951) 746-5933 or visit www.CHAtucson.com to begin!