BRAD THOMPSON

Academy Owner & Black Belt

At the age of 49 he began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and proudly received his black belt from Carlos Gracie Jr. in 2003 and his Fourth degree Black Belt in 2019. Brad competed for four consecutive years after starting the sport. During that time he won four consecutive Master’s World Championship titles and earned 6 gold Medals. He opened OBJJ in 2011 to bring in the best talent to Orlando and further the skills of his friends and members. Brad has a passion for helping everyone learn, improve and reach their goals.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

  • 2022 Pan American Champion

  • 2020 Second Place World Master Champion

  • 2020 First Place Pan Master Champion

  • 2018 Second Place World Master Champion

  • 2017 First Place World Master Champion

  • 2015 Miami Open World Master Absolute Champion

  • 2014 Second Place World Master

  • 2014 Pan American Champion

  • 2013 Pan American Champion

  • 2012 Pan American Champion

  • 2006 Pan American Champion Open Class Silver


 

Guilherme Fernandes

Head Jiu Jitsu Instructor - PM

Guilherme Fernandes is a highly experienced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and instructor with over 7 years of teaching experience and more than 100 tournament matches throughout his career. He has competed at the highest level of the sport, earning major IBJJF accomplishments in both Gi and No-Gi competition, including becoming the 2025 IBJJF European No-Gi Champion.

As an instructor, Guilherme brings a detail-oriented and competition-tested approach to his classes, helping students of all levels develop strong fundamentals, sharpen their technique, and build confidence on the mats. His teaching style combines technical precision, real competition experience, and a passion for helping students improve whether their goals are self-defense, fitness, or high-level competition.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

  • 2025 IBJJF European No-Gi Champion

  • 2024 IBJJF European Gi 3rd

  • 2023 IBJJF PAN No-Gi 2nd

  • 2023 IBJJF European No-Gi 3rd

  • 2023 IBJJF European Gi 3rd

  • 100+ tournament experience

  • 7+ years of teaching experience

  • Experience competing at the highest level of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu


 

Anthony Rivera

Head Muay Thai Instructor, Co-Head MMA Instructor, and Bootcamp Instructor

Kru Anthony began his martial arts journey at age 7 with karate, earning his black belt by 18 before transitioning into Muay Thai, where he went on to win multiple prestigious titles. His coaching blends traditional Muay Thai, Dutch kickboxing, and modern striking concepts, giving students a dynamic and well-rounded approach to stand-up combat.

Known for his clinch work and deep understanding of multiple Muay Thai styles, Anthony brings technical depth and real-world experience to every class. He also has over 20 years of strength and conditioning experience through powerlifting and leads boot camp classes designed to help students build strength, endurance, and confidence.

As Co-Head Coach of our MMA program, Anthony brings years of coaching experience and has worked with athletes from organizations including the UFC, ONE Championship, and Bellator. His passion, knowledge, and dedication make him a valuable mentor for students and competitors alike.

Accomplishments

  • Goju Ryu Black Belt

  • - Karate US Open Champion

  • - Multiple-time Muay Thai Champion

  • - NASAM Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritionist

  • - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Blue Belt


Cleber Machado

Black Belt BJJ

30 years ago, Cleber started his martial arts journey with judo. Life took him in different directions, but his passsion was reignited when a friend invited him to a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) session in his garage. Since then Cleber has been training consistently in BJJ for the last ten years.

Now at 44, he believes that learning and growth has no age limits.

Passionate for a simple BJJ, Cleber volunteers at our gym, dedicating his time to others to develop their fundamental skills in life, Judo and BJJ.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

  • Blackbelt - Brad Thompson and Fabio Caram

  • 2020 Orlando Open

  • Pan American 2020 3rd place

  • Brown Belt- Denilson Pimenta and Fabio Caram

  • Purple Belt- Brad Thompson and Fabio Caram

  • Blue Belt- Leo Gocking and Mike Budnik (MMA)

  • Judo (1988-1992)


 

GARY LENTZ

Head Jiu Jitsu Instructor- AM

Gary started training jiu jitsu at 30 years old and has been training every day since then. Now a black belt and experienced instructor, he leads our morning classes using what he likes to call advanced fundamentals. Demonstrating simple techniques that are used at the highest level along with his passion for seeing his students grow, creates an atmosphere that is only there during the morning class. Training in Gary’s class is personal as everybody in the class has adapted his philosophy towards training which puts an emphasis on helping others. Making his class an amazing way to start the day.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

  • 2-0 in MMA under Kage One

  • 1st IBJJF Miami open

  • 2nd IBJJF No-gi Pans

  • 2nd IBJJF Atlanta open

  • 2nd IBJJF Orlando summer open

  • 2nd IBJJF Charleston open

  • 2nd IBJJF Miami winter open


AJ Ahmed

Jiu Jitsu Instructor

AJ brings a fast paced, submission focused approach to Jiu Jitsu. A purple belt under Guilherme Fernandes, AJ is an active competitor with over 100 competition wins and more than 80 victories by submission. Known for his exciting style, AJ is always looking to attack, create openings, and hunt for the finish.

Before Jiu Jitsu, AJ served in the United States Air Force, where he developed the discipline and work ethic that now carries over into his training and coaching. As a Jiu Jitsu instructor at OBJJ, AJ helps students build confidence, sharpen their technique, and develop a game that works under pressure.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Purple Belt under Guilherme Fernandes

  • 100+ competition wins

  • 80+ wins by submission

  • Multiple-time Jiu Jitsu champion and medalist

  • Multiple-time absolute champion

  • Active Jiu Jitsu competitor