I began my jiu jitsu training at MIT under Sensei Jason McCarthy, eventually serving as MIT dojo's Head Instructor. I have also trained directly under O'Sensei Joe Puleio, as well as with various jiu jitsu and related martial arts instructors in the Boston area.

My current training home is New York Jiu Jitsu, where I continue to focus on advanced concepts of American Jiu Jitsu, and supplement them with intensive training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai techniques. I also attend outside courses in advanced jiu jitsu techniques and knife and stick fighting.

I fled to the United States from the Soviet Union in 1992. Life was always difficult back there, and constant threats and harrassment only got worse as the country disintegrated. Streets of Brooklyn were not much more forgiving for fresh immigrants either (although I much preferred them). So, when I first had a chance to see jiu jitsu, no one had to convince me that effective self-defense was an important part of everyday life. And jiu jitsu was right on point--shut the person down with maximum effectiveness using minimum effort.

The martial art of jiu jitsu has an ancient history, but is as practical today as it was 2,000 years ago. I quickly fell in love with it, and now have the privilege to teach it to those who seek to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The style I learned is American Jiu Jitsu, and our creed is simple and to the point:

To build our mind and body as one
To respect one another
To obtain total awareness
Never fight to achieve selfish ends
but to develop might for right.

Nidan (2nd Degree Black Belt) in American Jiu Jitsu

American Jiu Jitsu

AJJ Bushido/Connors Award - 1998
AJJ Instructor Certification - 1999