Scotty Nelson, CEO of the Cellular Performance Institute (CPI) in Mexico, has lived a life intertwined with the worlds of combat sports and groundbreaking medical innovation. As a pioneer in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and an entrepreneur with ventures that span from martial arts to cutting-edge medical treatments, Scotty’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Whether through his work with the UFC or his leadership in alternative medicine, Scotty Nelson has made an indelible mark on both the combat sports community and the field of regenerative health.
Scotty’s journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in the early 1990s, a time when the sport was still largely underground in the United States. After being introduced to BJJ by a friend, Scotty quickly became captivated by the martial arts. His passion led him to Northern California, where he trained under Ralph Gracie, and then to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2001, where he immersed himself in the world of Gracie Barra—training alongside some of the sport’s legendary figures.
“Back then, seeing a purple belt was like spotting a unicorn,” Scotty recalls. “Brazil was where you went to train with the best, and it didn’t get better than Gracie Barra.”
While in Brazil, Scotty identified a gap in the market for high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear in the U.S. and began importing GIs, eventually launching his own brand. His entrepreneurial vision led to the creation of On The Mat (OTM), one of the first websites dedicated to BJJ content. Through OTM, Scotty made the sport more accessible to practitioners worldwide, offering a platform for on-demand videos, gear, and instructional content, which helped expand the global BJJ community.
Yet Scotty’s entrepreneurial ventures didn’t stop with martial arts. He ventured into the medical field with his latest and most impactful initiative: the Cellular Performance Institute (CPI). Located in Tijuana, Mexico, CPI specializes in alternative therapies with a particular focus on regenerative stem cell treatments. These therapies, which target conditions ranging from chronic pain to sports injuries, are at the forefront of medical science, providing patients with options not yet widely available in the U.S.
One of CPI’s most significant endorsements comes from the UFC. As the official stem cell provider for UFC athletes, CPI has become a go-to destination for fighters looking to accelerate recovery from injuries and extend their careers. Professional athletes, notorious for the physical toll their careers demand, have turned to CPI’s therapies as a means to regain their strength, mobility, and competitive edge.
“We’re seeing incredible results with athletes and regular patients alike,” Scotty explains. “Helping people regain their health is what drives me, and working with UFC fighters shows just how effective these treatments can be.”
By focusing on stem cell and regenerative medicine, CPI offers treatments that harness the body’s natural healing capabilities. The procedures combine stem cells with advanced therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and encourage long-term recovery. UFC athletes have significantly benefited from CPI’s offerings, allowing them to recover faster and train at their peak performance levels without invasive surgeries or prolonged recovery times.
Scotty’s mission with CPI goes beyond sports medicine. His vision is to revolutionize healthcare by providing accessible, cutting-edge treatments that enhance quality of life. CPI has also gained recognition for its work in treating more severe conditions, such as cancer, making it a versatile institute for those seeking innovative medical solutions.
From his pioneering role in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his groundbreaking work in stem cell therapy, Scotty Nelson’s path is one of passion, risk-taking, and continuous evolution. His leadership at CPI is not only helping UFC athletes but is also opening doors for countless others to explore regenerative medicine as an alternative to conventional treatments.
Scotty’s journey—from the mats of Brazil to the medical frontlines in Mexico—reminds us that innovation often comes from those willing to push boundaries. His work at CPI is a testament to the power of blending passion with science, offering hope and healing to those who seek it. And as his legacy continues to grow, it’s clear that Scotty’s influence in both combat sports and regenerative medicine is far from over.
