Instructors

Abraham Majedi is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt and coach at Alliance Laguna Hills, who began training at age six and developed a deep passion for competition and teaching. Alongside his Jiu Jitsu career, he is a dedicated personal trainer committed to helping others achieve their fitness goals, while embracing a well-rounded lifestyle that includes music, gaming, and travel.

Alexander Acha founded City of Angels Boxing with a mission to provide a positive outlet for youth. He is a dedicated coach and mentor in the community.

Anderson "The Spider" Silva is a legendary Brazilian MMA fighter and former UFC Middleweight Champion. He holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days, which included a record 16 consecutive victories. He is widely considered one of the greatest strikers and martial artists of all time.

André Luiz Leite Galvão is a legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and coach. He is a 6x ADCC World Champion (2x weight class, 4x Superfight) and 6x IBJJF World Champion. He is the co-founder and head coach of the world-renowned Atos Jiu-Jitsu Academy in San Diego, California, where he has trained numerous world champions.

Angelica Galvao is a highly decorated BJJ black belt competitor and coach under André Galvão. She is the co-leader of the Atos Jiu-Jitsu female team, leading one of the most successful women's BJJ programs in the world. She has won multiple medals at the World Championships and Pan American Championships.

Professor Brian Fonacier is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under the legendary Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles. As the head instructor and manager of Alliance Jiu Jitsu South Bay (formerly Cobrinha BJJ Redondo Beach), he has dedicated himself to providing world-class BJJ instruction for adults, kids, and minis. Under his leadership, the academy fosters a supportive, technical, and disciplined training environment.

Cole Abate is a multiple-time world champion in the colored belts and the youngest ever to win the ADCC Trials at the age of 16 years old. He was recently promoted to black belt by Professor Gui Mendes in July 2023.

Marcus "Conan" Silveira is the head coach of American Top Team (ATT), one of the largest and most successful MMA teams in the world. He is a BJJ black belt under Carlson Gracie and a veteran of early UFC and extreme fighting events, and has coached dozens of UFC champions.

Demian Maia is a BJJ and MMA legend. He is widely considered one of the greatest grapplers in MMA history, utilizing a pure BJJ style to capture 22 UFC victories and challenge for the Welterweight and Middleweight titles. In BJJ, he is an ADCC Champion and BJJ World Champion.

Eddie Bravo is the founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, a non-traditional BJJ system focused on No-Gi grappling. He gained fame after submitting Royler Gracie at the 2003 ADCC Trials as a brown belt. He is also the creator of the Rubber Guard and Twister systems, and the founder of the Eddie Bravo Invitational (EBI) and Combat Jiu-Jitsu.

Frederick "Freddie" Roach is a legendary professional boxing trainer and former boxer. He is the owner of the world-famous Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California, and is widely considered one of the greatest boxing trainers of all time. He has guided the careers of Manny Pacquiao, Miguel Cotto, Oscar De La Hoya, and James Toney, and is a 7x BWAA Trainer of the Year.

A legendary figure in the world of grappling, Gokor Chivichyan is a master of both Judo and Sambo. He developed the Hayastan Grappling System, which has produced numerous successful MMA fighters and submission grapplers.

A true pioneer, Grandmaster Rhee was instrumental in introducing Tae Kwon Do to the United States and was a famed instructor to many, including Bruce Lee.

A renowned MMA coach and strategist, known for his game planning and developing champions like Jon Jones and Holly Holm.

Gui Mendes is a 4x World Champion and member of the IBJJF Hall of Fame. He is the head professor at AOJ Academy and has created champions at every age and belt level.

Haley is a dynamic coach who teaches Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to young children aged 3 to 6 years old. A mother and BJJ competitor, she brings her passion for both teaching and the sport into every class. Haley has a remarkable ability to connect with young kids, fostering a fun, engaging environment where they can thrive. In addition to her coaching, Haley is a skilled graphic designer, balancing her creative career with her role as a coach. Her passion for teaching and her well-rounded talents make her an inspiring role model for kids.

Henri Hooft is a Dutch kickboxing trainer and founder of the world-famous Kill Cliff FC (formerly Sanford MMA). A former kickboxing world champion himself, he created the "Hooft System" of striking and has coached UFC champions Kamaru Usman, Luke Rockhold, and Rashad Evans, as well as Gilbert Burns and Michael Chandler.

Professor Jalen Fonacier is an elite black belt competitor and instructor under the legendary Rubens "Cobrinha" Charles. He is a highly accomplished competitor in the rooster weight division, holding prestigious titles such as IBJJF World Champion, UFC BJJ Champion, and 2026 IBJJF European Champion. Professor Jalen represents the world-class competitive pedigree of the Cobrinha lineage.

Javier Mendez is the founder of American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) and one of the most successful coaches in MMA history. A former ISKA Kickboxing World Champion, he has coached legendary UFC champions including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, Luke Rockhold, Cain Velasquez, and Islam Makhachev.

Jean Jacques Machado is an 8th-degree red and black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, widely considered one of the most technical grapplers in BJJ history. Despite a birth defect affecting his left hand, he captured the 1999 ADCC Championship, earning the Most Technical Fighter award. He is a pioneer of BJJ in America.

Jessa Khan officially joined AOJ Academy in 2016 as an orange belt. She won the World Championships in the blue, purple and brown belts and received her black belt from Professor Gui Mendes 2 days before her 19th birthday. In 2023, she captured the black belt world title in the light-featherweight division after an amazing performance.

John Danaher is a world-renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt coach widely considered one of the greatest minds in grappling history. Originally from New Zealand, he was the mastermind behind the legendary "Danaher Death Squad" and currently leads "New Wave Jiu-Jitsu" in Austin, Texas, coaching champions like Gordon Ryan and Georges St-Pierre.

Jordan is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt who has been training under Laercio Fernandes for 9 years. A family man with a passion for teaching, Jordan is known for his ability to break down complex techniques into simple, understandable steps. His deep understanding of Jiu Jitsu and his clear teaching style make him an exceptional coach who loves helping others progress in the art.

A former professional fighter from Australia, Justin Fortune is known for his intense, no-nonsense training style and his work as a strength coach for some of the biggest names in boxing.

A dedicated Brown Belt instructor with a passion for teaching beginners.

Kennedy Maciel is an elite black belt competitor and instructor under his father, Rubens 'Cobrinha' Charles. Born in Brazil and training since 2012, Kennedy established an outstanding competition record, winning IBJJF World Championships at every colored belt rank from white to brown before receiving his black belt in 2018. His black belt achievements include winning the IBJJF No-Gi World Championship, capturing an ADCC Silver Medal, and winning the 2026 IBJJF European Championship. Kennedy plays a primary role in instructing adult classes and heading the Kids and Teens programs at the Los Angeles headquarters.

A long-time and respected coach at Blackhouse MMA, Kenny Johnson has been instrumental in the corner of many top-level fighters, known for his grappling expertise and coaching acumen.

Kron Gracie is a professional MMA fighter and BJJ champion. He is the son of Rickson Gracie and grandson of Helio Gracie. He captured the ADCC World Championship in 2013 with a 100% submission rate and currently competes in the UFC.

With over two decades of experience, Kru Chat has a passion for building community and making Muay Thai accessible to families and children.

A "fighter of the century" in Thailand, known for his devastating kicks. Now a revered coach passing on authentic Muay Thai traditions in LA.

A dedicated Muay Thai coach with extensive experience in both Thailand and the US, focusing on strong fundamentals and conditioning.

A senior master instructor from the legendary Sityodtong camp in Thailand, carrying on a legacy of producing technically sound fighters.

Kyra Gracie is a BJJ black belt and a member of the legendary Gracie family. She is a 3x ADCC Champion and a 4x BJJ World Champion. She was inducted into both the ADCC and IBJJF Halls of Fame as one of the most accomplished female competitors in history. She is a sports commentator and leads the Gracie Kore academy.

Laercio Lima Fernandes, born in Brazil, rose from humble beginnings to become a Jiu Jitsu Black Belt World Champion under the mentorship of Rubens “Cobrinha” Charles, while also earning a Master’s degree in Engineering from the University of São Paulo. Now based in Laguna Hills, CA, he runs a successful Alliance Jiu Jitsu school and a tech company, all while balancing family life and a lifelong passion for martial arts and learning.

Lyoto Machida is a professional MMA fighter and former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Known as "The Dragon", he introduced a highly unique, elusive karate-based style to MMA. He holds notable victories over Tito Ortiz, Rashad Evans, Randy Couture, Dan Henderson, and Vitor Belfort.

Marcus Vinícius Oliveira de Almeida, widely known as "Buchecha", is the most successful competitor in IBJJF World Championship history, holding 17 World Championship titles (including 6 Absolute titles). He is also a 2x ADCC Champion and currently competes in professional MMA in ONE Championship.

Maria Silva is a highly technical Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt instructor, known for her innovative guard game and dedication to teaching students of all levels.

Coach Mike Fonacier is an experienced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor at Alliance Jiu Jitsu South Bay. He plays a key role in leading the Kids, Minis, and Adults classes, helping students build a strong BJJ foundation and improve their techniques in a friendly, supportive environment.

A highly respected striking coach and co-founder of Jackson Wink MMA, responsible for the stand-up skills of many champions.

Founder and head instructor of Unity Jiu Jitsu, known for his technical guard and tough training.

Nong-O Gaiyanghadao is a dominant Muay Thai fighter and former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion. He is a 4x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, a Rajadamnern Stadium Champion, and was voted Sports Writers Association of Thailand Fighter of the Year three times. He is celebrated for his clinical kicking power and defensive mastery.

Pablo Lavaselli is a 2x World Pro Champion and Brazilian Nationals Champion. Originally from Argentina, Pablo moved to the USA in the summer of 2022 to learn from Professor Gui Mendes. Since then he has become an integral part of AOJ Academy and the AOJ+ online platform.

Carlos Machado is an 8th-degree red and black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a BJJ pioneer in the United States. He is the eldest of the five Machado brothers and a nephew of BJJ founder Carlos Gracie Sr. He is the head coach of Carlos Machado Jiu-Jitsu Association and has trained many notable fighters.

Rafael Cordeiro is the head coach of Kings MMA and a legendary martial arts trainer. A former Muay Thai champion in Brazil, he was a key coach at Chute Boxe during its golden era. He has trained Mike Tyson, Anderson Silva, Wanderlei Silva, Shogun Rua, Fabricio Werdum, and Rafael dos Anjos, and is a multi-time MMA Coach of the Year.

Rafael Mendes is a 6x World Champion and 2x ADCC Champion known for his creative and innovative style. In 2022, Rafael was inducted into both the IBJJF and ADCC Hall of Fame.

Renzo Gracie is a BJJ and MMA legend, a member of the famous Gracie family, and one of the most influential figures in martial arts history. He is a 2x ADCC Champion and a veteran of the UFC, PRIDE, and K-1. He founded the world-renowned Renzo Gracie Academy in New York City, which has produced numerous MMA and BJJ champions.

A highly respected master under the legendary Carlson Gracie Sr., Rey Diogo is known for his deep knowledge of classic, effective Jiu-Jitsu and his dedication to teaching.

Ricky Funez is a well-known and respected trainer who has guided the careers of many professional boxers from his gritty gym in the San Fernando Valley.

Rico Verhoeven is a Dutch kickboxer and the current GLORY Heavyweight World Champion. He has dominated the Glory heavyweight division for over a decade, defending his title over 10 consecutive times against the world's top heavyweights. He is widely considered one of the greatest kickboxers in combat sports history.

Rubens Charles Maciel, widely known as "Cobrinha", is a legendary 7x World Jiu-Jitsu Champion (6x Gi, 4x No-Gi) and 3x ADCC Champion. He is one of only a few people to win the BJJ "Super Grand Slam" in a single year, and is considered one of the greatest featherweights of all time. He is the head coach and founder of Cobrinha BJJ.

A legendary fighter from Thailand known for his relentless pressure and powerful clinch work. Runs a hardcore gym for serious practitioners.

Saenchai is a living legend in Muay Thai and is widely considered one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters of all time. He won the Lumpinee Stadium championship in four different weight divisions, showing an unprecedented ability to defeat larger opponents. He is famous for his incredible evasion, technique, and signature cartwheel kick.

An absolute icon of striking, Samart excelled at the highest levels of both Muay Thai and international boxing, a feat few have ever accomplished.

Saulo Ribeiro is a 5x BJJ World Champion (Adult Black Belt) and 2x ADCC Champion. He is one of the most dominant competitors in BJJ history and the author of the best-selling book "Jiu-Jitsu University". Along with his brother Xande, he co-founded the Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu association and currently leads the Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu team.

Gene LeBell, known as "Judo" Gene LeBell, was an American martial artist, stuntman, and professional wrestler. A 10th-degree black belt in Judo and a Catch Wrestling expert, he is widely credited with helping popularize grappling in the United States and was a key coach to Ronda Rousey, Chuck Norris, and Bruce Lee.

A world-renowned Aikido instructor, Ikeda Sensei is known for his powerful, clear, and engaging teaching style, emphasizing connection and internal principles.

A direct student of Jigoro Kano, Sensei Fukuda was a pioneer for women in Judo and a master technician. Her legacy lives on through her students.

The founder of Kudo, Azuma Sensei created a comprehensive martial art that combines karate, judo, and boxing in a "budo" context, emphasizing safety and realism.

Dan Inosanto is an American martial arts instructor who was a direct student and close friend of Bruce Lee. He is one of only three people certified by Bruce Lee to teach Jeet Kune Do. He is a world-leading authority on Filipino Martial Arts, Silat, JKD, and shoot wrestling, and runs the Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts.

Tainan Dalpra is a 2x Black Belt World Champion and is known for his technical yet dynamic style. He moved from Brazil to the United States in 2014 at the age of 14 to pursue his dream of making a career from Jiu Jitsu and is now one of the head professors inside the academy.

Urijah "The California Kid" Faber is an MMA legend, pioneer for lighter weight classes, and former WEC Featherweight Champion. He is the founder of Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, California, which has produced multiple UFC champions, and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2017.

Vince brings his experience from professional MMA and Hollywood stunt work to teach practical, effective striking for self-defense and combat sports.

With decades of experience, Walter brings a classic boxing philosophy to a modern setting, focusing on sharp fundamentals and defensive prowess.

Alexandre "Xande" Ribeiro is a 7x BJJ World Champion (Adult Black Belt) and 2x ADCC Champion. He is widely considered one of the greatest heavyweight competitors of all time and is famous for his legendary defensive guard which was rarely passed. He is the co-founder of Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu and currently leads the Six Blades Jiu-Jitsu association.