A natural competitor, Payton Wilson combines knowledge, experience, and analysis with passion in everything he pursues. One of his earliest passions was auto racing. Payton started with autocross and worked his way to being a professional racecar driver. In analyzing every success and loss, he crystallized his mastery of racing and now uses that as a professional driving instructor with the Department of State's Diplomatic Security Training Directorate.

Payton's approach to jiu jitsu mirrors his racing mindset. He takes advantage of understanding the rules, applies his commitment to succeed, and continually develops his skills. A veteran of the Gulf War, Payton believes that the determination and dedication instilled in him by the Marine Corps motivates him to be the best. Jiu jitsu is like a physical chess game to Payton - the strategy, technique, and awareness of leverage intrigued him from the first time he tried it. He is passionate about teaching others and recognizes that success is always based on having a strong team.

Some of Payton's notable jiu jitsu accomplishments include:

2021 International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World Master
-Silver in Division

2021 International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) New Orleans Open
-Gold in Division

2020 International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) Atlanta Open
-Gold in Division, Silver in Open Class

2019 IBJJF Washington, DC Open
-Gold in Division

2018 IBJJF BJJ Pro
-Gold in Division

2018 IBJJF Washington, DC Open
-Gold in Division, Gold in Open Class

2017 IBJJF New York Open
-Gold in Division

2017 IBJJF Atlanta Open
-Silver in Division, Gold in Open Class

2016 IBJJF BJJ Pro
-Gold in Division

2015 IBJJF Atlanta Open
-Gold in Division, Gold in Open Class

2015 IBJJF New York Open
-Gold in Division, Gold in Open Class

2014 Louisiana State Championship
-Gold in Division

2014 Alabama State Championship
-Gold in Division

2014 Mississippi State Championship
-Gold in Division