Having developed an interest in the principles of joint locking and using leverage and technique rather than power to overcome an opponent, a serious interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was a natural next step. He began formal training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu as part of the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association in March of 2005 under second degree black belt instructor Greg Nelson, moving on to earn his blue belt in June 2007.

 Cris has had the opportunity to train with legendary instructors Alvaro Barreto and Royler Gracie as well as multiple seminars with Professor Pedro Sauer, Greg Nelson, and first degree black belt Ishmael Bentley. He is currently a purple belt.