Fresno police arrived at BJJ instructor Michael Monson’s home on Wednesday night – and arrested him on suspicion of se*ually assaulting a young student.
By Thursday morning, jail records showed he had already posted bond.
The 48-year-old had been head instructor and owner of a Jiu-Jitsu gym in northwest Fresno operating under the Jean Jacques Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu franchise, a name well known in grappling circles far beyond the Central Valley.
That affiliation, however, had already ended weeks before his arrest.
Fresno police have released few details publicly, confirming only that the investigation remains active, with no further specifics disclosed about the nature of the allegations or whether other individuals may be involved.
An arrest reflects suspicion rather than a legal finding, and the case remains under investigation.
Representatives for the Jean Jacques Machado organization said they first learned of allegations against Monson on August 21st and severed ties with him that same day.
The franchise was direct about its reasoning in a statement:
Based on the information presented to us, we determined that the nature of the conduct alleged was highly inappropriate and inconsistent with the standards and values expected.
That split triggered visible changes at the gym itself. Franchise signage was removed, ownership changed hands, and the facility was rebranded as Frontline.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
