Joe started as a middle school and high school wrestler, before joining the Army where he fell in love with the Army Combatives program. When he got out of the Army, he began training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2009. Besides BJJ, Joe also trained in Krav Maga, Karate, Kajukenbo, and Tai Chi. He even met his wife at a martial arts school, and they continue to train together!

Being an Army veteran of 12 years, Joe has a passion to give back to his fellow soldiers. He is the We Defy Foundation ambassador for the state of Wisconsin, and wholeheartedly supports Mission 22, Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans Jiu Jitsu, Gis 4 GIs, and Submit the Stigma.

Joe was promoted to Black Belt by Chris the day after Veteran's Day in 2022 in Stoughton, WI.