Academy Overview
About Black Cat
The Story
Black Cat Jiu Jitsu is the premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in Springfield, Virginia, owned and operated by 2nd Degree Black Belt Adam Benayoun. Founded in 2022, Black Cat was built to provide world-class Jiu Jitsu in a welcoming, competitive and safe learning environment where students of all ages and experience levels can thrive.
With nearly 20 years of experience studying under some of the most respected and accomplished minds in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Adam has built a reputation as both a world-class competitor and a highly sought-after instructor. His passion for teaching extends far beyond the academy, leading to the creation of multiple instructional releases and a growing online learning platform that has helped students around the world deepen their understanding of Jiu Jitsu. Whether you're stepping onto the mats for your very first class or preparing for elite-level competition, our mission is to provide the guidance, structure, and support needed to help you reach your goals with confidence and purpose.
Since opening its doors, Black Cat has grown into one of Northern Virginia’s leading academies, serving a community of more than 200 members. Supported by a team of dedicated instructors and operating out of a custom-designed 4,200-square-foot facility, Black Cat continues to empower students through martial arts while fostering discipline, confidence, personal growth, and lasting friendships on and off the mats.

Head instructor
Adam Benayoun
Adam Benayoun began his martial arts journey in New York City as a teenager and has been coached by the world's best Jiu Jitsu players since his very first class. Adam received his blue and purple belts under 9-time black belt World Champion Lucas Lepri, his brown belt under 4X ADCC world champion Marcelo Garcia and is presently a second-degree black belt under UFC standout and American-born Jiu Jitsu legend, Ryan Hall.
As a black belt, Adam has developed into both a detailed instructor and world class competitor at the international level. Adam's varied experience and passion for helping others make him a fantastic guide for beginner and advanced students alike. Apart from teaching and competing in Jiu Jitsu, Adam has become a valuable resource as an MMA corner having coached bouts in the UFC, ONE FC, FURY FC and more.