RIKI DOJO USA Japanese Jujutsu and Kodokan Judo - Mesa, Arizona

Cass

This absolutely a hidden gem here in the valley. I’ve never met a more passionate and knowledgeable person in the sport of Judo.
Sensei Riki’s understanding of the foundational methodology of Judo is fascinating. The people who go here are so kind and helpful. I’ve felt welcomed at every turn…and throw.
Thank you for all you do!

Frank Blackman

Riki Sensei is one of the most knowledgeable people you’ll ever meet. Not just in martial arts, but life in general. One of the kindest human beings period. The students from Kiril to Will to Mike, Ryan, Benito, Nathalie, Ashley and countless others are a family and will help you become the best you can be in judo. There’s no judgement or shaming here. I personally encourage you to drop by for a visit and talk with Sensei. Oh yeah, Al is a piece of work and you’ll learn a lot from him as well!

Emanuel Khoshaba

Sensei Riki truly cares about authenticity and tradition, which is why Riki Dojo is such a special place to learn Judo. Not only does he teach you the kata of Judo, but also the history and even the uses of certain moves in war. Sensei is also excellent at making you comfortable practicing an intense sport, all while bringing out your confidence and desire to improve. I would absolutely recommend Riki Dojo to anybody who’s even slightly interested in Judo!

Michael Sobczyk

As a parent, I had my son at the dojo for over a year. During that time I appreciated Sensei Riki’s attentiveness and resilience with teaching the children. He works to ensure they understand throws and how to fall safely and to ensure that don’t get hurt. After watching my son participate in judo practice for a year I finally joined the dojo. I had never done martial arts and promised my son I’d try it out. Now a year later and I love going and practicing. Sensei teaches traditional Japanese Judo and looks to make sure you understand the throw and the historical purpose of the throw. If you are looking for an teacher that can show your child confidence and how to protect themselves, or if you are an adult looking to protect yourself and get an amazing workout, I cannot stress enough, that this is the dojo for you. Show up and try the dojo for 7 days at no charge, and I guarantee you’ll be hooked, just like I did.

Matt

Love this place! I was a student here for several months and went every day it was open. Sensei Riki is an amazing teacher and everyone there will really make you feel like you are part of a family.

The teaching style is very traditional and you will drill your kata and your waza many times to make sure you build a solid foundation for your Judo.

I HIGHLY recommend Riki Dojo if you are looking for a traditional Judo experience and you want to learn a discipline instead of just a sport.

(Edit)
I would love to go back sometime, I ended up leaving because of the pandemic, and then ended up moving to another state. But if I'm ever back in AZ then I'll definitely visit the dojo. I just wish there was a Judo dojo near me now! Thanks, Riki Sensei!

Saquib Siddiqui

If you are looking for place that will help you learn traditional Kodokan Judo with one of the best instructors this is the place to go. It is one of the few training dojos that places emphasis on mastering technique. Sensei Riki is a really patient and kind teacher who is extremely welcoming. There is spirit of respect that can be seen in all the students and everyone is hospitable. Would definetly recommend visiting this place and giving it a shot. You will thank yourself.

Matthew Pacheco

A great dojo to learn judo in the holistic sense. Very beginner friendly yet demanding for those who want to elevate their judo.

This is not a competition focused dojo. There are no trophies on the wall, and practice is not geared towards dominating your partner. Instead it is focused on the traditions and techniques of judo and historical jujitsu.

Sensei is very good with the young children. From teaching respect and how to fall properly to emphasizing protecting one's partner, I cannot recommend this dojo enough for young and young at heart.

Reginald Bron

☑ Courage and Bearing
☑ Benevolence
☑ Politnesss
☑ Truthfulness
☑ Honor
☑ The Duty of Loyalty
☑ Justice

It is no coincidence that these virtues of the Samurai are foundational at Riki Dojo. Sensei Riki's lineage can be traced directly to the teachings of Jigoro Kano, the Kodokan Institute, and the battlefield martial arts used by the Samurai.

What makes this form of Judo so powerful is the emphasis of technique and martial science to allow a smaller person to take down a much larger person irregardless of strength or stature. This makes it extremely effective for use by women, children, and men of any size (Jigoro Kano was 5'2" and sickly as a child).

Every martial artist can benefit from Riki Dojo's Judo.

"Judo is really amazing. They figured out the science of launching people into the air and slamming them on the ground...you know those movies where a guys flips people through the air and BOOM! A real judoka can do that...they've basically figured how to hit a person with the planet." -- Joe Rogan

An advanced practioner of ANY martial only has to speak to and observe Sensei Riki to know he is "the real deal". This is not a Black Belt Factory or some neutered derivative of Jujutsu. Riki Dojo is not a fancy gym resplendent in cheap medals and trophies. This a humble place to learn the true heart of "The Warrior's Way".