Contributed article | May 10, 2026
San Antonio, Tx -At the IBJJF San Antonio International Open, Coach Josh Spivey stepped back onto the mats carrying more than competitive ambition. He carried the grit of Cuero, Texas, the expectations of his students, and the mindset that has shaped his journey as both a coach and an active Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor.
Spivey trains and teaches at Family Jiu-Jitsu Karate, located at 105 E. French St. in Cuero, where he balances coaching kids and adults with a demanding competition schedule. Known for testing himself often, he competes year‑round across Texas, sharpening his skills through constant drilling, cross‑training, and live rounds at multiple academies.
His return to the San Antonio Open came just weeks after suffering an injury at a Houston tournament—an obstacle that could have sidelined many athletes. Instead, Spivey treated it as another challenge. He stepped back onto the mat not because it was easy, but because the work still mattered.
That resilience reflects the spirit of Cuero: hardworking, disciplined, and unwilling to back down when things get tough.
According to BJJ Metrics, Spivey has earned 41 career medals, including 10 gold, 21 silver, and 10 bronze, with titles at IBJJF San Antonio, IBJJF Waco, IBJJF Dallas Summer, IBJJF Austin Summer, and NAGA. He currently holds a country ranking of 77 among U.S. blue‑belt ultra‑heavyweight competitors.
While he didn’t capture gold in his division at the San Antonio Open, the day still marked a victory. He showed up after being hurt. He competed. He stayed in the fight. And for the students watching him—kids and adults alike—that example matters more than any medal.
Spivey’s preparation extends beyond the academy. He works with 14 Degrees Fitness in Cuero to support his conditioning and nutrition, and he receives sponsorship support from Nation Athletic and 1st Phorm as he continues to chase major competition goals throughout 2026.
He also credits the team at Ohana Jiu Jitsu in San Antonio for helping support him throughout the event—an example of the brotherhood that defines the Jiu-Jitsu community.
Coach Spivey returns to competition Sunday for No‑Gi, looking to build momentum and continue representing Cuero on the big stage.
Gold or no gold, his message remains the same: Keep showing up. Keep working. Keep going.
And he’s not done yet.