Discovering High-Level BJJ, Muay Thai, and Local Community Culture in the Heart of Northern Arizona.
1491 E Cherry St | Cottonwood, AZ
Training, Community, and New Beginnings in Central Arizona
Capturing the Energy at Verde Valley Jiu Jitsu
Having worked in creative marketing across Central Arizona for several years, every visit to the Verde Valley deepens my connection to this unique community. One of the first people to welcome me into the fold was Jimmy Sharkey, an instructor at Verde Valley Jiu Jitsu in Cottonwood.
When Jimmy first reached out about a creative collaboration, I knew it would be a rewarding project. Beyond his martial arts background, Jimmy is an accomplished videographer who brings a sharp artistic vision to everything he does. What began as a professional shoot quickly evolved into a solid friendship and an ongoing creative partnership.
Together, we’ve executed several dynamic media projects, but photographing the adult and youth Jiu Jitsu classes stands out as a highlight. Capturing combat sports was new territory for my lens, but the discipline, movement, and tight-knit community at the gym made it incredible to document.
Inspired by the energy on the mats, I decided to jump into a kickboxing class myself. What started as a spontaneous trial turned into a genuine passion—prompting me to step onto the mats for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training during my trips to Cottonwood. Watching the coaching staff teach sparked a deep appreciation for self-defense, body mechanics, and martial arts philosophy.
The Legacy & Evolution of Verde Valley BJJ
Verde Valley BJJ has a rich history deeply rooted in Cottonwood, Arizona. The academy was originally founded by Maynard James Keenan (lead vocalist of Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer) alongside his wife Jennifer, built on a vision of delivering elite, ego-free martial arts instruction to northern Arizona.
During the gym’s original era—before relocating to its expanded Cherry Street facility—Maynard and Jennifer cultivated an inclusive, high-standard training environment for local families, competitors, and beginners alike.
In subsequent years, leadership of the academy was passed down to Coach Clay Wimer. Building upon the strong foundation laid by the original founders, Clay has guided Verde Valley BJJ through its next evolution on Cherry Street, continuing its legacy as Cottonwood’s destination for elite grappling, striking, and fitness.
Featured Instructors & Coaching Staff
James “Jimmy” Sharkey
Muay Thai & Kickboxing Instructor
South Dakota native Jimmy Sharkey serves as the lead striking coach at Verde Valley BJJ. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu blue belt under the prestigious Amal Easton lineage, Jimmy brings over eight years of active competition experience across Boxing, Muay Thai, and No-Gi grappling tournaments.
Blending technical precision with practical fight dynamics, Jimmy’s striking classes are energetic, detail-oriented, and structured for practitioners of all skill levels—from total beginners to seasoned combat sport athletes.
Coach Clay Wimer
Head Instructor | BJJ Black Belt
Alaskan-born Black Belt under Professor Vellore Caballero, Coach Clay Wimer leads the grappling programs at Verde Valley BJJ with an emphasis on defensive responsibility, positional control, and fundamental mastery.
Clay began his combat sports journey in professional MMA, making his sanctioned debut in 2014. After a back injury shifted his focus away from MMA, Clay adapted his approach through deliberate, precise, and highly technical movement. This methodical style allowed him to continue competing at the highest tiers of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, including major national platforms. His coaching philosophy reflects that journey: technical, longevity-focused, and deeply dedicated to student growth.
About Us – Verde Valley BJJ in Cottonwood: Training at Verde Valley Jiu Jitsu: Photography, Martial Arts, and Community in Cottonwood, AZ
Teen & Adult Kickboxing Classes in Cottonwood, Arizona
