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Head Trainer: Jeff Perez
I first discovered my love of martial arts on the wrestling mats. I wrestled from elementary school through high school, finding ways to train and compete year-round instead of having to wait for the next season. It became more than a sport to me; it became my life.
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After high school, I joined the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and served two combat deployments with 3rd Battalion 4th Marines in Al-Anbar, Iraq. After my second tour of duty, I was fortunate enough to help establish our base’s first Mixed Martial Arts Team, Fight Club 29. Prior to completing my 4 years of service, I competed in our Fight Club’s first competition, an all-military MMA tournament. I was home.
After the Marine Corps, I attended and graduated from Umass Dartmouth. Instead of taking my business degree to the office, I chose to pursue my first love, martial arts. I studied the arts of Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing and Wrestling, and was fortunate to do so under great mentors such as Stephen Whittier, founder of Straight Blast Gym (SBG) East Coast, and Kru Mark Dellagrotte of Sityodtong.
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Between teaching, training, and competing both as an amateur and professional, I found my peace. My goal has always been to continue learning and experimenting on and off the mats, and now my 24-year pursuit continues with Back to Basics Martial Arts and Fitness.
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COMBAT CREDENTIALS & HIGHLIGHTS
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Served as an Infantry Team Leader in the United States Marine Corps
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Deployed to the Al-Anbar region of Iraq twice
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Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Under Stephen Whittier of SBG
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Ranked under Kru Mark Dellagrotte in Muay Thai
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Have been coaching and teaching Jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and MMA for over 7 years to people of all ages and backgrounds
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Have competed in 4 different combat sports
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Was ranked the #1 amateur fighter in New England at 145lbs
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Currently 5-2 Pro Mixed Martial Artist