Tryfon Stathopoulos is a martial artist and instructor based in the United States, known primarily for his work in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He is the owner and head instructor of North Bay Jiu Jitsu in Novato, California. Stathopoulos began his martial arts journey in 2000 and decided early on to pursue it as a career. He holds a second-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, earned in 2013 under Professor Eduardo Rocha, a fourth-degree black belt from Gracie Jiu Jitsu Oakland. He also has a third-degree black belt in Freestyle MMA, awarded by Sensei Mike Valentine of Practical Martial Arts, and is certified in F.A.S.T. (Fear Adrenaline Stress Training) defense under Bill Kipp.

Stathopoulos opened North Bay Jiu Jitsu in 2011 with the goal of sharing his passion for BJJ and promoting its benefits to his community. He’s been a full-time instructor and competitor since 2003, teaching hundreds of students across all age groups. As a competitor, he’s racked up an impressive record, winning multiple championships at various belt levels, including bronze at the IBJJF World Championships (blue belt), double gold at the No Gi World Championships (purple belt), and gold at the US Open (black belt), among others.

Beyond the mats, he’s a father of three

, and he’s known for his commitment to testing his skills in competition to refine his teaching. His school emphasizes a technical, community-driven approach to BJJ, and he’s built a reputation as a skilled and approachable figure in the Bay Area martial arts scene.