1. How did you get started in BJJ?
My first style of Martial Arts was Isshin-Ryu Karate under the lineage of Grand Master Ed McGrath. My instructors actually rented space from Grand Master Francisco Mansor in 2000 at the old Kioto Brazilian Jiu Jitsu location on Long Island when I was a Brown Belt in Isshin-Ryu. Naturally after seeing the first UFC’s and watching everyone roll and train at Kioto, I had to jump right in. When I got my Black Belt in Isshin-Ryu I delved into BJJ full-time.
2. What is your current rank and who gave it to you?
I am currently a Black Belt under Milton Regis and Grand Master Francisco Mansor of the Kioto BJJ Academy and it is an honor to receive it from that lineage and be with Kioto BJJ for all of my belts.
3. If you had a super power what would it be?
That’s a tough one! I would have to say infinite lung capacity which means that you could roll at full intensity forever!
4. Who in the JJ world would you like to have lunch with?
I would love to have lunch with Rickson Gracie, Michelle Nicolini (BJJ Crush), or Rodolfo Vieira.
5. Do you compete in BJJ?
Yes. After being injured during training a few years ago I slowed down competing a bit but in the past I have won numerous local BJJ tournaments here in NY and also medaled at the US Open of BJJ. I’m excited to get out there with fellow Black Belts in the coming year. Apparently I’m considered an “old man” now that I have just turned 30 and qualify to compete at the Masters level but that’s BS and I’ll prove them wrong!
6. What do you do for a living?
Some would say that I am a Professional Smart-Ass. That profession doesn’t pay very well though. Currently I am a Fitness Coach at a private school and also teach BJJ there as well. I plan on having my own BJJ School in addition to other businesses.
7. How has BJJ changed your life?
That is tough to put into words but I’ll do my best. BJJ has given me many things including self-confidence and the ability to overcome obstacles. What started off as a self-defense oriented goal turned into one of the best communities to be involved with and my proudest accomplishments. You just can’t describe the feeling when you start BJJ and really start getting the knack of it. When anyone can walk through the door and you feel 100% comfortable with your ability to control and submit them no matter how much stronger or heavier they are is one of the most powerful feelings. It changes the type of person you are and it is up to you to let it enhance your life in a positive way.
8. Please use a movie title to describe your life and explain?
Rudy! Not only because people have said I look like the main character, but because my life has been about coming back stronger after being knocked down and proving people wrong.
9. Choose one and explain why. 1 year of working as Kim Kardashians maid or 1 year of Justin Biebers bodyguard?
Kim Kardashians maid? First off, anyone who names their child North West has issues! I would be a maid for 1 day just to pull off pranks on them and film it. Being Bieber’s bodyguard would be fun because I could probably use some BJJ! Don’t like his music though.
10. What is your favorite thing to do outside of BJJ?
Before martial arts my previous love affair was with Motocross at 9 years old. That will always be one of my hobbies and can’t wait to get back on a bike. I’m also big into Fitness and love trying different things. From being a speed & agility coach for 3 years, then getting into CrossFit and seeing how similar that community is to Jiu-Jitsu. I also like to pretend I’m a rock star in my basement and rock out on the drum set and guitar. Mostly playing my favorites from Tool, Metallica, Pantera and any other group I like!
