Jonathan began his journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 1998 and after six years of study, received his Black Belt in November of 2004.  He is Gustavo Machado’s (a 2nd degree Black Belt under Roberto ‘Gordo’ Correa) first student in the United States.

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 Jonathan has competed in numerous competitions throughout the country. As a purple belt he won a silver medal at the 2002 Pan-American championships placing second behind Braulio Estima. Jonathan also obtained a silver medal in the 2000 Pro-Ams and a Gold Medal in 2002 at VABJJF Championships as well as numerous other medals that he has obtained throughout his career.

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In addition to Jonathan’s Brazilian Jiu Jitsu experience, he has competed in Mixed Martial Arts in various promotions such as Spartyka Fight League, Elite Fighting Challenge and was also the two-time Modern Gladiators Lightweight Champion.

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A true family man and one of the toughest RN’s in the world, Jonathan is first and foremost a wonderful father and loving husband. Not only does Jonathan take interest in teaching and studying Martial Arts, he also has a passion for truly helping others. He is a true Instructor at heart, taking tremendous pride in teaching his students. He is able to adapt his style to fit a student’s needs regardless of flexibility, strength or stamina. Whether a student wants to be the next world champion or if a student simply wishes to get in shape, Jonathan has the skills and techniques to propel them to the next level.

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He is a brilliant martial artist who lives the art of Jiu-Jitsu and has a great desire to pass his knowledge and skills on to his students.