 Brian started learning martial arts when he was 5 years old at Al Martinez Muay Thai Kickboxing in Wilmington, CA.When he turned 13, he began training Brazilian jiu-jitsu at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy under Rorion Gracie, and his sons Ryron, Rener, and Ralek Gracie in Torrance, California.When Ortega was 17, he met boxing coach James Luhrsen, who took him in and trained him in striking skills.