Edgar Figueroa

Marcos Estrada Sr

Edgar Figueroa

Co-Founder of Valor Jiu-Jitsu, Orland Park, IL

Edgar is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with nearly 20 years of experience. He began training in 2006 and earned his black belt in 2018 under Professor Christian Uflacker. After moving to Orland Park, Edgar trained and taught at Rol Academy, eventually leaving his 18-year career as a Futures Trader to pursue Jiu-Jitsu full-time.

In 2025, he partnered with longtime mentor and training partner, Marcos Estrada Sr, to launch Valor Jiu-Jitsu. Edgar’s teaching style is approachable and student-focused, welcoming all experience levels to train, grow, and thrive through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Marcos Estrada Sr

Co-Founder of Valor Jiu-Jitsu, Orland Park, IL

Marcos is a lifelong martial artist with deep roots in grappling, combat sports, and coaching. A former high school wrestler and U.S. Marine, he spent over 20 years sharpening his skills while serving, including a 3-1 amateur MMA career. In 2014, he earned his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Professor Christian Uflacker.

Marcos brings decades of experience and leadership to Valor Jiu-Jitsu, where he’s passionate about helping students of all backgrounds grow through Jiu-Jitsu. His mission is to build strong, confident individuals—on and off the mats—through disciplined training and community.

  • Marcos Estrada Jr

    Marcos Estrada Jr received his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt in 2023 under Professor Christian Uflacker, a 5th-degree black belt under the legendary Renzo Gracie. With over 25 years of experience in combat sports, Marcos holds winning records in wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and mixed martial arts (MMA). Since beginning his teaching journey in 2016, Marcos has successfully coached athletes of all ages and skill levels across multiple disciplines. His teaching philosophy emphasizes technical excellence, personal growth, and building a strong, respectful team culture both on and off the mats.

  • Mitch Cook

    Mitch Cook is an Orland Park native and former collegiate wrestler with a lifelong passion for grappling. Since 2013, Mitch has been dedicated to coaching students across a variety of martial arts disciplines in wrestling, with a strong focus on takedowns and ground control. A seasoned USA Beach Wrestling competitor, Mitch brings high-level experience, technical precision, and a student-first approach to every class. He has successfully trained individuals of all ages and skill levels, helping them build confidence, improve performance, and deepen their understanding of grappling arts.