Andrew Wiltse has shared an encouraging update with the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community, revealing that he is in a much better place personally and professionally as he prepares to launch a brand-new academy with his brother, Bird Wiltse.
After a difficult period away from the spotlight, Wiltse posted a brief video explaining that he has spent the last three months living in Kearney, Nebraska, where he has been rebuilding his life while coaching at Magnum MMA.
According to Wiltse, the move came after he repaired his relationship with his brother over the phone while he was still in Lafayette.
“Me and him talked over the phone, repaired our relationship, and then Bird told me, ‘Just come move up, we’ll make something happen.'”
Since relocating, Wiltse says he has been teaching Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Magnum MMA under gym owner Justin Weaver, while focusing on both his physical conditioning and his overall wellbeing.
“I’ve been getting in shape and just putting myself back together, mental health-wise. Everything’s doing good.”
The update marks a positive chapter for one of the sport’s most popular instructors, who has been open in recent years about his struggles with mental health. His honesty has earned widespread support from the grappling community, making this latest announcement particularly welcome news for longtime fans.
Wiltse Brothers BJJ Opening in Nebraska
Perhaps the biggest revelation from the update is that Andrew and Bird Wiltse are preparing to open their own academy.
The new gym, Wiltse Brothers BJJ, is scheduled to open in August in Kearney, Nebraska. The project is being launched in partnership with Justin Weaver and the Magnum MMA team, combining the Wiltse brothers’ well-known instructional approach with the existing local martial arts community.
Wiltse described the opportunity as a chance to rebuild both his career and his life.
“I’m happy. I got an opportunity to kind of put my life back together, still work with Bird and do everything like that.”
A freelance journalist with more than seven years of experience covering a wide range of topics, with a focus on delivering accurate, engaging, and well-researched reporting. He studied at the University of Birmingham, where he developed a strong foundation in journalism and communications. Martin is a 10th Planet BJJ brown belt and has been training for approximately 10 years and a keen follower of submission grappling.
