SAN ANTONIO – A new chapter is unfolding for combat sports in San Antonio, and it’s one being led by a woman.
Danielle Walker, an eight-time world champion in jiu-jitsu, is stepping into a new challenge: owning and operating her own gym, Takedown City Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu Academy.
What makes this venture unique?
Walker said it’s the first of its kind in San Antonio, with a woman at the helm in two male-dominated sports.
“I love growing the sport now and seeing how many girls are on the mat now,” Walker said.
For Walker, the journey into the world of wrestling and jiu-jitsu began years ago, but she said it’s been anything but easy.
“I didn’t have girls to look up to,” Walker said. “This is what I’ve been working for my whole life.”
Walker’s new academy is still in its early stages, but she said she is already looking ahead to growing the space and filling it with students like Ava Cabalona.
“I always feel at home here,” Cabalona said. “She knows how I feel, and it just helps me feel more comfortable.”
Walker said the academy will likely open in January and it will be open to students of all ages.
