Professor Josh Griffiths & Clockwork Jiu Jitsu

Lineage Background & Credentials

Professor Josh Griffiths is a fourth-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and the founder of Clockwork Jiu Jitsu in New York City. He was awarded his black belt in 2007 by renowned UFC competitor and third-degree black belt Kenny Florian. Griffiths represents a respected branch of the technical lineage descending through Roberto Maia to Carlos Gracie Jr.

Under Griffiths' leadership, Clockwork Jiu Jitsu developed a national reputation for elite technical instruction, high-level competition success, and a warm, welcoming mat environment that prioritizes longevity and mutual respect.

Sensei Sandy's Training Heritage

Sensei Sandy dedicated over a decade to rigorous daily training at Clockwork Jiu Jitsu under the close guidance of Professor Griffiths. Sandy earned each of his color belts and his black belt from Professor Griffiths through years of disciplined practice on the mat.

The time spent training in New York City shaped Sandy's technical foundation. He studied the detailed biomechanical principles that allow smaller practitioners to neutralize force through frames, angle creation, and mechanical leverage.

The Clockwork Philosophy in the Catskills

When Sensei Sandy established his academy in Tannersville, NY, he brought the foundational principles of Clockwork Jiu Jitsu to the Great Northern Catskills:

• Technical Leverage Over Muscle: Emphasizing precise timing, bone-frame alignment, and intelligent weight distribution so students train sustainably.
• A Calm and Cooperative Room: Cultivating an environment where training partners protect each other, communicate openly, and learn with mutual curiosity.
• Structured Beginner Progression: Breaking complex grappling sequences into clear, accessible steps so novices build confidence from day one.