While filming “From Dusk Till Dawn” around town, Zane Holtz was captivated by Austin’s unique blend of creativity, community, and outdoor lifestyle. He fell head over heels for Austin’s irresistible vibe and decided to make it his family’s forever home. The decision to relocate his family here was easy, he says, and it’s a choice that has profoundly shaped his life both personally and professionally.
Holtz isn’t just an action star on screen — he’s also a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and now co-owner of East Austin Jiu-Jitsu Parlor, where he’s rolling into a whole new chapter both on and off the mat.
The actor’s martial arts journey began in his childhood in Canada, where indoor activities were a necessity due to the harsh weather.
“It’s very popular in Canada,”explains Holtz. “Because there’s such adverse weather for the majority of the year, any indoor activity really catches on, so I had been training in some type of martial arts since I was six.”
His training continued after moving to California, where he discovered Brazilian jiu-jitsu and studied under Marcelo Cavalcanti at a boxing gym in Hermosa Beach. The initial intrigue blossomed into a lifelong passion, culminating in Holtz earning his black belt in 2019.
“I had this realization, ‘Am I done?’ Or is it just the start of another journey with the art?” says Holtz. “I almost immediately felt I wanted to take on the responsibility to teach.”
Following the closure of his longtime spot, Dark Clan Fight Lab, this newfound sense of responsibility inspired Holtz —and his partners Vince Barbosa, William Watts, Dave Haas, Jon Thibeault, and Dr. Sean McEachern —to open East Austin Jiu-Jitsu Parlor in August. The gym offers a comprehensive range of classes, including gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu, catering to practitioners of all levels.
“Jiujitsu can be really intimidating,” acknowledges Holtz, “So we want to ensure everyone has an opportunity to safely join the sport and become part of the community.
A holistic approach to wellness
Beyond jiu-jitsu, the gym provides a holistic approach to wellness. It features free weights, strength and conditioning classes, a steam room, and physical therapy and training by McEachern, a purple belt in jiu-jitsu, former U.S. Marine, ex-Olympic weightlifter, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy. The goal is to bridge the gap between a jiu-jitsu gym and a health club, where members actually want to hang out before or after classes. With abundant natural light, an industrial-chic aesthetic, and a vibrant neon sign, East Austin Jiu-Jitsu Parlor exudes a welcoming and social atmosphere. The gym’s elevated ambiance is a refreshing departure from the typical jiu-jitsu setting.
Holtz’s vision for the gym extends beyond providing a space for physical fitness — he sees it as a community asset. The gym offers discounted memberships to first responders, teachers, and students, reflecting Holtz’s commitment to giving back to the city he now calls home. In 2025, the parlor will collaborate with Nate Boyer’s non-profit organization, Merging Vets & Players. This partnership aims to unite combat veterans with former professional athletes in workout sessions conducted at various fitness facilities.
An Action-Packed Fall in Hollywood
While Holtz continues to pursue his acting career, with the upcoming erotic thriller “Love Bomb” set to premiere Nov. 8 and an episode in the second season of the crime anthology series “Accused” co-starring Ken Jeong and directed by Michael Chiklis. He’s also developing projects as a producer, including an equity film that he hopes to shoot in Austin, but his focus remains on his family and his burgeoning gym.
“If I had a magic wand,” says Holtz, “I’d figure out another show that could shoot here in Austin and make it all around easier on my life, my family, and my new business.”
Commitment to the Austin Community
With its inviting atmosphere, expert instruction, and commitment to community, East Austin Jiu-Jitsu Parlor is set to become a cherished destination for jiu-jitsu enthusiasts and fitness seekers alike. For Holtz, it represents the fulfillment of a dream to share his passion for jiu-jitsu with the city that has captured his heart.
“Really and truly, we’re trying to be an asset and provide services to the community,” says Holtz.
Learn more about East Austin Jiu-Jitsu Parlor and sign up for a class at eastaustinjiujitsu.com.
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