Beloved Jiu-Jitsu Coach Jason “Dingo” Mulholland Dies Unexpectedly, Leaving Rochester Martial Arts Community in Mourning
ROCHESTER, MN — June 2025; The city of Rochester and its tight-knit martial arts community are mourning the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Jason “Dingo” Mulholland, a beloved instructor at Mario Roberto Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Jason passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind not only family and friends but also a legion of students and fellow practitioners who viewed him as both mentor and inspiration.
Known for his vibrant personality, disciplined work ethic, and unwavering commitment to the craft of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Mulholland’s death has sent ripples of grief through the local and national BJJ communities. His passing, though sudden, was not in vain—he leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of martial arts culture in Minnesota.
A Life Built on Discipline, Grit, and Generosity
Jason Mulholland, affectionately known by his nickname “Dingo,” was more than a coach—he was a student of life, a teacher of resilience, and a source of light for those around him. A longtime Rochester resident, he was known for blending deep technical expertise with a warm, welcoming attitude that invited beginners and experienced martial artists alike to feel at home on the mat.
As an instructor at Mario Roberto Jiu-Jitsu, Mulholland played a crucial role in shaping the gym’s culture. He trained hundreds of students over the years, from kids just discovering the sport to adults preparing for competitions. He was renowned for his patience, his ability to break down complex moves into digestible lessons, and his talent for building confidence in even the most hesitant newcomers.
“Jason wasn’t just a coach—he was the heart of this place,” said one of his longtime students. “He pushed us to be better, on the mat and in life. His energy was contagious, and his belief in others was unwavering.”
Cause of Death
As of this writing, no official cause of death has been publicly disclosed. Jason’s passing came as a shock to family, friends, and fellow martial artists, many of whom had seen him training and teaching in the days prior. Out of respect for his family, details surrounding his death remain private, though community members have been asked to honor his memory by embodying the principles he lived by—integrity, humility, and perseverance.
Remembering the Man Behind the Black Belt
Away from the gym, Jason was known for his sense of humor, his love for Australian culture (hence the nickname “Dingo”), and his unshakeable loyalty to friends and family. He had an unmatched ability to make people feel seen, valued, and empowered. Whether it was through a laugh during warm-ups or a quiet word of encouragement after a tough roll, Jason left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
“He remembered everyone’s name, everyone’s story,” said one parent of a young student. “He had a way of lifting people up that was so rare. My child grew more confident under his coaching than I could have ever imagined.”
His passion for BJJ wasn’t just about self-defense or competition—it was about transformation. Jason believed in the power of martial arts to change lives, to build character, and to teach people how to face adversity head-on.
A Community in Mourning
Since the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from across the country. Former students, fellow instructors, and competitors have shared heartfelt messages, memories, and photos online under the hashtag #RollForDingo—a call for practitioners everywhere to dedicate their next training session to the man who gave so much to the sport and its community.
In Rochester, Mario Roberto Jiu-Jitsu Academy has organized a special memorial open mat session, where students and friends can gather to celebrate Jason’s life. The gym will also be creating a dedicated wall of remembrance, where anyone touched by Jason’s life can leave written tributes, photos, or mementos.
Additionally, plans are underway to establish the Jason “Dingo” Mulholland Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will support youth who wish to study Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but may not have the means to afford it—ensuring Jason’s legacy of inclusion, support, and empowerment continues for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Jason Mulholland’s sudden departure is an incalculable loss to all who knew and loved him. But in the halls of Mario Roberto Jiu-Jitsu, in the memories of students who learned discipline and courage under his guidance, and in every sparring match where someone finds the strength to keep going—his legacy lives on.
His impact will not fade. He was a warrior, a teacher, and a friend.
Rest easy, Coach Dingo. You taught us more than you know.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details will be shared by the Mulholland family in the coming days. In the meantime, the community is encouraged to come together, support one another, and keep Jason’s memory alive through the practice and principles he held so dear.