(402) 651-7721

Our Story & Lineage

Trace the roots of Legacy BJJ Omaha. From the Rickson Gracie and Rodrigo Vaghi lineage to the 30-year journey of Coach Ed and Coach Matt in Nebraska BJJ.

The Legacy Philosophy

Why “Legacy”? Jiu-Jitsu is a gift passed from one generation to the next. We focus on long-term development over short-term gains. Our goal is to instill a character that lasts longer than a tournament trophy—building resilience, humility, and a spirit of service that you carry off the mats and into your home and career.

The Pioneers: Coach Ed & Coach Matt

Senior Professor Ed Shobe

In the early 1990s, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was nearly non-existent in the Midwest. Senior Professor Ed Shobe was among the first to plant those seeds in Nebraska, traveling hundreds of miles to seek out authentic instruction. His path was defined by a search for “invisible” Jiu-Jitsu—the subtle details that make the art work for everyone.

Professor Matt Lippold

Matt joined Ed in 2000. Together, they spent over two decades training side-by-side, evolving from students to local leaders. Their partnership is built on a shared commitment to the “Old School” values: mastery of the basics, respect for the hierarchy, and the belief that a coach’s greatest success is the progress of their students.

The Team Vaghi Connection

Legacy BJJ Omaha is a direct affiliate of Master Rodrigo Vaghi, a 6th-degree black belt under the legendary Rickson Gracie. Lineage isn’t just a family tree; it is quality control. It ensures our students receive technical instruction that hasn’t been “watered down.” When you wear the Team Vaghi patch at Legacy, you are representing a standard of excellence recognized worldwide.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you’re motivated and looking for a gym that values effort, technique and community, then reach out with to one of our team members and let’s talk!

Your 3-Step Action Plan:

  • Sign the Waiver: New to the mats? Complete our Digital Waiver before your first class.
  • Check the Schedule: View our Official Class Schedule to join our next Fundamentals session.
  • Visit the Gym: Bring your clean white Gi and get ready to train with the best community in Omaha.

📧 Email Us: matt@legacybjjomaha.com

📞 Call/Text: (402) 651-7721

Join the Community Online:

Follow us for daily technique clips, student highlights, and gym updates:

Our Story & Lineage

Trace the roots of Legacy BJJ Omaha. From the Rickson Gracie and Rodrigo Vaghi lineage to the 30-year journey of Coach Ed and Coach Matt in Nebraska BJJ.

The Legacy Philosophy

Why “Legacy”? Jiu-Jitsu is a gift passed from one generation to the next. We focus on long-term development over short-term gains. Our goal is to instill a character that lasts longer than a tournament trophy—building resilience, humility, and a spirit of service that you carry off the mats and into your home and career.

The Pioneers: Coach Ed & Coach Matt

Senior Professor Ed Shobe

In the early 1990s, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was nearly non-existent in the Midwest. Senior Professor Ed Shobe was among the first to plant those seeds in Nebraska, traveling hundreds of miles to seek out authentic instruction. His path was defined by a search for “invisible” Jiu-Jitsu—the subtle details that make the art work for everyone.

Professor Matt Lippold

Matt joined Ed in 2000. Together, they spent over two decades training side-by-side, evolving from students to local leaders. Their partnership is built on a shared commitment to the “Old School” values: mastery of the basics, respect for the hierarchy, and the belief that a coach’s greatest success is the progress of their students.

The Team Vaghi Connection

Legacy BJJ Omaha is a direct affiliate of Master Rodrigo Vaghi, a 6th-degree black belt under the legendary Rickson Gracie. Lineage isn’t just a family tree; it is quality control. It ensures our students receive technical instruction that hasn’t been “watered down.” When you wear the Team Vaghi patch at Legacy, you are representing a standard of excellence recognized worldwide.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you’re motivated and looking for a gym that values effort, technique and community, then reach out with to one of our team members and let’s talk!

Your 3-Step Action Plan:

  • Sign the Waiver: New to the mats? Complete our Digital Waiver before your first class.
  • Check the Schedule: View our Official Class Schedule to join our next Fundamentals session.
  • Visit the Gym: Bring your clean white Gi and get ready to train with the best community in Omaha.

📧 Email Us: matt@legacybjjomaha.com

📞 Call/Text: (402) 651-7721

Join the Community Online:

Follow us for daily technique clips, student highlights, and gym updates: