2024 Combatives Summit Speakers and Instructors
Craig Douglas - Expert in Self-Defense and Conflict De-Escalation
Craig Douglas, founder of Shivworks and a veteran of over two decades in law enforcement, is a renowned expert in self-defense and conflict resolution. With an extensive background in narcotics and SWAT, Craig has trained thousands of individuals in real-world self-defense, integrating physical techniques and mental strategies. His flagship course, ECQC (Extreme Close Quarters Concepts), is regarded as one of the most comprehensive programs for entangled combat and self-defense in high-stakes environments.READ MORE
Known for his groundbreaking work in scenario-based training, Craig specializes in preparing individuals to handle violent encounters through a combination of close-quarters combat and tactical awareness. His course, Weaponized Language: Controlling Conflict with Words, focuses on using language as a powerful tool to de-escalate conflict and gain control in high-stress situations. This course is featured at the Combatives Summit, where Craig shares his expertise on verbal strategies that can neutralize threats before they escalate.
Craig has taught in nearly 40 states and nine countries, instructing military units, federal agencies, and law enforcement at every level. In addition to his open-enrollment courses—over 40 each year—Craig’s insights on self-defense have been published in leading outlets like Black Belt and SWAT Magazine. His work as a trainer and subject matter expert has made him a respected authority in the fields of criminal assault behavior, verbal de-escalation, and self-defense.
Alan Belcher - BKFC Heavyweight Champion & Expert in Bare Knuckle Striking
Alan Belcher, born April 24, 1984, is an American bare-knuckle boxer and former mixed martial artist, renowned for his 15-fight tenure with the UFC. Currently competing in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), Alan is the reigning BKFC Heavyweight Champion. With a professional fighting career that spanned from 2004 to 2015 in mixed martial arts, Alan is best known for his versatile skills in striking and grappling, which he now applies to the bare-knuckle fighting arena.READ MORE
At the Combatives Summit, Alan teaches Bare Knuckle Striking: Effective Punching Without Injury, a course designed to equip participants with techniques to deliver powerful, precise strikes while minimizing hand injuries. Drawing on his extensive experience in both MMA and bare-knuckle boxing, Alan’s course emphasizes the mechanics of effective striking, control, and injury prevention, crucial for real-world self-defense and tactical applications.
Beyond his competitive career, Alan holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Taekwondo, further enhancing his expertise in both grappling and striking. As a former UFC fighter and current BKFC champion, his deep understanding of combat sports allows him to offer practical insights into striking with precision and power without compromising hand safety.
Alan’s instruction combines his professional fighting background with a focus on safety, making him a sought-after coach for individuals looking to improve their bare-knuckle striking skills for both competition and self-defense.
Matt Larsen - Father of Modern Combatives
Matt Larsen, the Director of Combatives at the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, is widely recognized as the "Father of Modern Combatives." A former Marine, Army Ranger, and expert in Combat Psychology, Matt has revolutionized how the U.S. Army approaches hand-to-hand combat, blending martial arts disciplines into an effective combatives system. He is the creator of the Army's modern combatives doctrine and founded the United States Army Combatives School, where he developed training programs now used across the military.READ MORE
With extensive training in martial arts like judo, Shotokan karate, and traditional boxing, Matt’s background spans competition in Muay Thai and the Japan Karate Association's All Japan Karate Championships. His combatives training continued during his time in the 75th Ranger Regiment, where he became the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of combatives and Close Quarters Battle (CQB) training. His efforts culminated in the publication of the U.S. Army's Combatives Field Manual 3–25.150.
As an inductee of the Order of Saint Maurice at the Centurion level, Matt’s legacy continues to shape military combatives. He currently teaches Warrior Culture Development: Building Combatives Programs for Success in War and Life at the Combatives Summit, where he shares his expertise on building combatives programs that foster warrior cultures within organizations. His work focuses on instilling the mindset, discipline, and techniques needed for success both on the battlefield and in life.
Matt has trained military units, federal agencies, and law enforcement worldwide, making him a leading authority in combatives program development and warrior culture. His innovative approach continues to influence military training, tactical readiness, and self-defense practices.
Tom Kier - Expert in Sayoc Kali & Tactical Knife Fighting
Tom Kier, a renowned expert in Sayoc Kali, is known for his mastery of edged weapon combat and tactical applications. As a key figure in the development of Sayoc Tactical training, Tom has spent years refining the principles of this dynamic Filipino martial art, which specializes in knife fighting and blade-based combat. At the Combatives Summit, Tom teaches Blade Dynamics: Sayoc Tactical Knife Fighting, a short course focused on practical knife-fighting skills, targeting strategies, and defensive maneuvers.READ MORE
Sayoc Kali emphasizes timing, precision, and situational awareness, all of which are central to Tom’s instruction. His course prepares participants for real-world close-quarters engagements with blades, equipping them with the tactical knowledge necessary to effectively manage high-stakes encounters involving edged weapons.
With a career dedicated to both martial arts and tactical training, Tom has become a sought-after instructor for military, law enforcement, and self-defense practitioners. His work with Sayoc Tactical has helped modernize and expand the tactical use of knives in various fields, from combat to personal defense.
Tom’s expertise in blade dynamics ensures that students leave his course with a deep understanding of how to handle edged weapons in practical and effective ways, making him a key figure in the world of tactical knife fighting and combatives training.
Cecil Burch - Founder of Immediate Action Combatives
Cecil Burch is a renowned self-defense expert and the founder of Immediate Action Combatives, with over 30 years of experience in martial arts and tactical training. Cecil’s training emphasizes simplicity, efficiency, and real-world effectiveness, specializing in pugilism, weapons-based grappling, knife defense, firearms training, and entangled fighting. He designs practical courses that equip individuals with the tools and tactics needed to survive violent encounters.READ MORE
A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under the legendary Wellington "Megaton" Dias, Cecil’s martial arts background includes Shotokan, Kenpo, Tae Kwon Do, Jeet Kune Do, and Filipino Martial Arts, where he trained with masters like Dan Inosanto and Paul Vunak. His expertise spans stick and knife combat as well as empty-hand fighting techniques. Cecil has also trained in Pentjak Silat systems, including Tongkat, Mustika Kwitang, and Bukti Negara.
Cecil teaches military personnel, law enforcement officers, and civilians across the U.S. and internationally. He is a featured instructor at the Combatives Summit, where he teaches Tactical Stand-Up: Recovering from the Ground in a Weapons-Based Environment, focusing on essential techniques for recovering from a grounded position during an armed encounter.
In addition to conducting annual training courses, Cecil has been a keynote speaker at industry conferences like the Pat Rogers Memorial Revolver Round Up and the Rangemaster Tactical Conference. He regularly contributes to Personal Defense Network and has authored numerous articles on self-defense and combatives.
Cecil’s training methodology and dedication to practical, effective self-defense have earned him a respected position within the self-defense community, where he continues to impact the lives of those he trains.
Matt Pranka - Founder of X-Ray Alpha LLC & Expert in Advanced Weapons Handling
Matt Pranka, the founder of X-Ray Alpha LLC, is a retired professional soldier and USPSA Grand Master shooter known for his expertise in integrating elite tactical training with competitive shooting performance. With years of military experience and a deep understanding of firearms efficiency, accuracy, and speed, Matt has become a leading instructor in both the professional and competitive shooting worlds.READ MORE
At the Combatives Summit, Matt teaches Precision Engagement: Advanced Weapons Handling, a high-paced dryfire instructional seminar designed to improve advanced weapons handling skills. This course focuses on refining precision, speed, and technique in real-world scenarios through high-intensity drills, offering participants the chance to learn from a working professional and competitive grandmaster shooter.
Through X-Ray Alpha LLC, Matt has developed a reputation for providing cutting-edge training emphasizing tactical applications and performance-based outcomes. His approach helps shooters maximize their potential under stress, ensuring they can perform effectively in high-stakes environments.
Matt’s expertise in advanced weapons handling and competitive shooting makes him a sought-after instructor for anyone looking to improve their firearms skills. His unique blend of tactical experience and competitive success allows him to offer a comprehensive approach to precision shooting, making him a key figure in military and civilian firearms training.
Guy Schnitzler - Expert in Close-Range Defense and Small Impact Weapons
Guy Schnitzler, a veteran law enforcement officer and certified instructor in various defensive tactics, specializes in the use of saps and jacks for close-quarters combat. At the Combatives Summit, Guy teaches Impact Control: Using Saps and Jacks for Close-Range Defense, a course designed to equip participants with the knowledge to effectively use these compact impact tools. The course emphasizes targeting, technique, and legal considerations, showing how saps and jacks can bridge the gap between lethal and non-lethal force in high-stress situations.READ MORE
With over 24 years of law enforcement experience, Guy currently serves as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Homeland Security. He is also a former patrol officer with the largest municipal police department in North Carolina and a former instructor in Defensive Tactics for his agency’s academy. His extensive background includes serving in the North Carolina National Guard as an Infantryman.
Guy holds a wide range of certifications, including Rangemaster Master Handgun and Shotgun Instructor, Red Zone Threat Management Empty Hand Knife Defense Instructor, and Point Driven Training certified Small Impact Weapons Instructor. He is also a black belt in both Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Kenpo Karate, with additional experience as a boxer. His commitment to training extends beyond the classroom, as the owner of DFW Defensive Training and an instructor in Force on Force and Less Than Lethal techniques.
Guy has completed numerous courses in firearms, tactics, tactical medicine, and criminal behavior, further solidifying his expertise in law enforcement and personal defense. His certifications include Tactical Anatomy Shooting With X-Ray Vision Instructor and Combatives University Black Belt, making him a sought-after expert in both armed and unarmed combat.
Guy’s course on Impact Control provides practical tools for self-defense, offering participants a versatile option for controlling threats with non-lethal force, ensuring their safety in close-range encounters.
Shane Kerwin - Expert in Tactical Medicine & Founder of Personal Survival Solutions
Shane Kerwin is a highly experienced former U.S. Army Special Forces Medical Sergeant and the founder of Personal Survival Solutions, LLC. With a distinguished career spanning multiple deployments and specialized training, Shane brings decades of real-world medical and tactical expertise to the Combatives Summit. He teaches Tactical Lifesaver: Civilian Medical Response in High-Risk Situations, a course designed to equip civilians with critical skills for managing medical emergencies in high-stakes environments. Participants will learn essential techniques for assessing injuries, controlling bleeding, applying tourniquets, and performing trauma care under pressure.READ MORE
Shane’s military background is extensive, having served in the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) for over 16 years. His roles included junior and senior Medical Sergeant, Company Operations Sergeant, and Detachment Operations Sergeant. He is a graduate of the Special Forces Medical Sergeants Course, the Special Operations Combat Medic Course, and several other advanced military medical programs. Shane has deployed seven times in support of the Global War on Terrorism and has worked alongside Naval Special Operations and international partners in the Middle East, Asia, and Central America.
In addition to his military experience, Shane is a registered Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic and has earned numerous certifications in tactical medicine, marksmanship, sniper operations, and urban combat. He holds various instructor qualifications, including Ranger School graduate and Jump Master.
Shane’s commitment to sharing his knowledge with others led him to establish Personal Survival Solutions, where he provides practical survival and safety training to civilians who care about personal safety, family welfare, and community readiness. His tactical medical course offers realistic, hands-on training to prepare participants for real-world emergencies in high-risk situations.
Cole Miller - Close Combat Expert and Founder of Sole Force Combatives
Cole "Magrinho" Miller, founder of Sole Force Combatives, is a former American mixed martial artist and highly respected martial arts coach. With a professional MMA career spanning over a decade, Cole competed in the featherweight and lightweight divisions of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he earned recognition for his submission skills and fight IQ. As a 4-time recipient of the UFC's "Submission of the Night" award, Cole has notable victories over fighters like Jorge Gurgel, Ross Pearson, Sam Sicilia, and Bart Palaszewski.READ MORE
After making his UFC debut in 2007 with a first-round knockout win at The Ultimate Fighter 5 Finale, Cole has since transitioned to coaching, where he focuses on martial arts and combatives. A Third Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Marcos "Parrumpinha" Da Matta, Cole is also a certified instructor in the Special Operations Combatives Program and a Master Instructor in the Air Force Combatives Program.
Cole currently co-owns Miller Martial Arts in Bonaire, Georgia, where he trains students in self-defense and combatives. At the Combatives Summit, Cole teaches Clinch Control and Access in Confined Spaces, a course that focuses on controlling opponents and accessing weapons in close-quarters combat, a vital skill for both self-defense and tactical applications.
With extensive experience as both a competitor and coach, Cole’s training methods emphasize practical, real-world applications of combatives, making him a sought-after instructor in the self-defense community. His years of expertise in MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and tactical training continue to impact those he trains.
Cliff Byerly - Owner of Hill Country Combatives
Cliff Byerly, owner of Hill Country Combatives, is a former Marine with over 20 years of service, including 12 years on active duty as a reconnaissance team leader. He has deployed to conflict zones such as Somalia and Iraq, gaining extensive real-world combat experience. After leaving the Marines in 1996, Cliff joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), where he worked in patrol, gangs, and narcotics. His military and law enforcement experience has made him a highly respected instructor in combatives and tactical training.READ MORE
Cliff is an expert in Tactical Catch Wrestling, a system he teaches at the Combatives Summit. His course, Tactical Catch Wrestling Using Pins or Rides Grounded in a Weapons-Based Environment, focuses on controlling opponents through pinning and riding techniques while considering the presence of weapons. This unique approach blends martial arts with tactical applications, making it a valuable skill set for both self-defense and law enforcement operations.
In addition to being a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Rodrigo Pinheiro, Cliff holds numerous certifications, including LAPD Arrest & Control Instructor, Tactical Ground Combatives Instructor, Combat Focus Shooting Instructor, and Red Zone Weapons Defense/Adaptive Striking Instructor. He has trained countless service members and officers in combatives, firearms, high-risk control tactics, and vehicle extractions.
With a rich background in martial arts such as Tang Soo Do, Kung Fu San Soo, wrestling, and BJJ, Cliff’s expertise is further reinforced by his certifications in Krav Maga Force Training and Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC). His comprehensive approach to tactical training ensures that students gain the skills necessary to prevail in real-world, high-stress environments.
Mike Cheney - Expert in Knife Control Concepts
Mike Cheney brings two decades of experience in Wrestling, Muay Thai, Judo, MMA, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his role as a leading expert in self-defense and combat sports. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Deon Thompson, representing Ohio Brasa, Mike serves as the Head Jiu-Jitsu Instructor at Endeavor Defense and Fitness in Columbus, Ohio.READ MORE
Mike’s self-defense training began with Ward Hiney, where they co-developed the Grounded Weapons, Access, Containment, and Control course, focusing on real-world weapons-based defense. He later expanded his expertise through collaboration with Aaron Jannetti and Eli Knight, which led to the creation of Knife Control Concepts, a comprehensive program designed to train individuals in controlling and defending against edged weapons.
Mike has shared Knife Control Concepts through seminars and workshops with Law Enforcement Officers, military personnel, hospital security, corrections officers, and even members of the US Secret Service. His instructor development programs have reached participants across the U.S. and Europe, cementing his reputation as a sought-after trainer.
As a featured instructor at the Combatives Summit, Mike advances cutting-edge tactical training, helping others develop essential self-defense skills in high-pressure environments. His passion for the pursuit of knowledge and contribution to the combatives community drives his ongoing work.
Ben Aubin - Founder of Redbeard Combatives
Ben Aubin, founder of Redbeard Combatives (RBC), is a seasoned security professional with over two decades of experience providing combatives training to military, law enforcement, and private security personnel. Ben has trained members of the Army’s 101st Airborne Division, Joint Special Operations Command, law enforcement agencies, and Personal Security Detail (PSD) members assigned to Central Command, making him a respected authority in the field of self-defense and tactical training.READ MORE
As an expert in Priority and Timing: Takedown in Weapons-Based Defense, Ben teaches this critical course at the Combatives Summit, focusing on the timing and tactical considerations necessary for executing takedowns in environments where weapons are present. His approach emphasizes precision and situational awareness, preparing students for high-stakes encounters involving armed adversaries.
Ben’s extensive career spans 14 years in U.S. Government and private security sectors, as well as over 20 years in civil and structural engineering design. He currently serves as the primary self-defense and hand-to-hand combat instructor for Tactical Intelligence International, a military defense contractor in Orlando, Florida. He has deployed to the Middle East, South America, and high-risk maritime environments, providing vital security training and assessments.
A 3rd-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with numerous competitive victories, Ben has further enhanced his reputation as a tactical advisor for Naval Special Warfare Advance Training Command (SEAL Combatives). He is also the inventor of the RBC Force on Force Helmet, used worldwide in training scenarios. With a degree in Intelligence Studies from American Military University and advanced certifications in counterintelligence, Ben’s expertise extends to physical security, vulnerability assessments, and protection operations.
Ben continues to share his extensive knowledge through his writing, guest contributions to security publications, and combatives training designed to prepare individuals for real-world threats.
Fletch Fuller - Expert in Weapon Retention and Tactical Training
Fletch Fuller is a highly experienced military veteran and active-duty law enforcement officer with over 20 years of service in a prominent South Florida agency. As a full-time training supervisor, Fletch specializes in hand-to-hand combat (H2H), ground tactics, edged weapons, force-on-force (FoF), and firearms training. At the Combatives Summit, Fletch teaches Keep Your Piece: Weapon Retention in High-Stakes Conflicts, a critical course that focuses on retaining your weapon during close-quarters encounters with violent actors attempting to gain control of your gear. Through practical drills and real-world scenarios, participants will learn how to protect their firearm and stay in control during intense conflicts.READ MORE
Fletch is a certified Force Science Analyst and holds numerous instructor certifications from respected organizations like the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), NRA Law Enforcement Division, and Rangemaster. His martial arts expertise includes a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and extensive training in systems like MMA, giving him a well-rounded background in both armed and unarmed combat.
As the former Vice President and Director of Law Enforcement Training for ISR Matrix International, and the current owner and lead instructor of Ready Up Tactical, Fletch has dedicated his career to advancing tactical training for law enforcement and civilians. He regularly presents at major industry events, including the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA) and the International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instructors (IALEFI), where he shares his expertise on personal safety and survival.
Fletch’s philosophy is rooted in the seamless integration of firearms and combatives training, ensuring that participants are prepared for the realities of violent encounters. His course on weapon retention provides essential skills for anyone looking to maintain control of their firearm and effectively neutralize threats in high-stakes situations.
Aaron Dugger, SCCC, CSCS - Director of Performance at In Extremis Performance
Aaron Dugger, SCCC, CSCS, is the Director of Performance for In Extremis Performance and a highly regarded expert in strength and conditioning. With extensive experience in human performance optimization, Aaron is known for his process-driven approach to improving athletic and combat readiness. At the Combatives Summit, Aaron teaches Training for the Fight vs Train Like You Fight, a practical course focused on increasing human performance for tactical professionals. The course emphasizes the difference between training for peak performance in combat situations and the commonly misunderstood idea of training as though you're already in the fight.READ MORE
Aaron’s expertise lies in developing structured, effective training programs that translate to real-world applications, ensuring that athletes, military personnel, and tactical professionals can perform at their best under high-stress conditions. His background as a Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified (SCCC) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) gives him the knowledge and experience to enhance both physical readiness and mental resilience.
As the Director of Performance for In Extremis Performance, Aaron leads a team focused on providing elite-level strength and conditioning training for tactical athletes. His work integrates practical solutions with a process-driven methodology to ensure long-term performance gains and injury prevention.
Aaron’s course at the Combatives Summit provides attendees with a clear understanding of how to train for the fight, focusing on building strength, endurance, and mental toughness in a way that prepares them for the challenges of real-world combat and tactical scenarios.
Sam Ferguson - Galo Combatives Group, Expert in Control Tactics
Sam Ferguson is a highly experienced police officer approaching a decade of service in Lexington, KY, and an accomplished combat sports athlete. He specializes in grappling and striking, having trained extensively in MMA, boxing, and Thai boxing. His course, Two Point Control: Arm Tie Techniques for Edged Weapons Defense, which he teaches at the Combatives Summit, focuses on neutralizing an attacker’s ability to strike with an edged weapon by using the highly effective arm tie technique, also known as Two Point Control. This practical, close-quarters method is designed to enhance safety and control in dangerous encounters involving knives or other weapons.
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Sam’s passion for combat sports began at the age of 8 with wrestling, a skill he continues to coach at the high school level. In addition to his wrestling background, Sam holds a blue belt in judo and a 1st-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), having medaled at No Gi Worlds as a purple, brown, and black belt. His grappling expertise has earned him recognition as a top competitor and a skilled instructor in both sport and tactical contexts.
As a third-shift patrol officer, Sam’s focus shifted to combatives and arrest tactics, earning him a black belt in combatives. His training with renowned experts such as Paul Sharpe, Larry Lindeman, Craig Douglas, and Aaron Janetti has further refined his ability to translate his combat sports background into practical and effective tactics for law enforcement.
Sam’s expertise in Two Point Control provides a unique and effective approach to edged weapons defense, making him a sought-after instructor in both the law enforcement and self-defense communities. His dedication to teaching real-world, high-stakes combat techniques ensures that his students are well-prepared for the dangers they may face.
Mike Schuerhoff - Active Duty Air Force & Grandmaster Pistol Instructor
Mike Schuerhoff is an active duty Air Force member with over 20 years of military service, including 5 years as an intelligence analyst and 15 years as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, with two deployments to Afghanistan. His extensive background in demanding operational environments has shaped his tactical expertise, making him a highly skilled instructor in both combat and competitive shooting..READ MORE
At the Combatives Summit, Mike teaches Grandmaster Pistol Skills for Tactical Applications, a course designed to elevate shooters to elite levels of precision and speed. Drawing from his experience as a Carry Optics Grand Master and member of the Air Force Action Pistol Team, Mike adapts the techniques used by competitive grandmasters for real-world tactical situations. Participants will learn how to apply advanced pistol skills to dynamic and stressful environments, improving their accuracy, speed, and overall performance.
Mike’s competitive achievements include several top 5 finishes at state-level matches, demonstrating his ability to consistently perform at an elite level. His unique blend of competitive precision and tactical application provides a valuable perspective for shooters looking to enhance their skills in practical, real-world scenarios.
With years of experience in both the military and competitive shooting circuits, Mike Schuerhoff’s training equips participants with the skills necessary to reach the highest levels of firearms proficiency in tactical settings.
Jerry Wetzel - Founder of Red Zone Threat Management & Expert in Adaptive Striking
Jerry Wetzel, founder of Red Zone Threat Management, is a leading expert in reality-based combat training. With nearly two decades of dedication to developing practical, real-world self-defense tactics, Jerry has become a trusted figure in the combatives community. His approach to combat is grounded in understanding the biological, psychological, and behavioral factors involved in violence and testing these concepts against resisting opponents in realistic scenarios.READ MORE
In 1999, Jerry established Centerline Gym with a singular mission: to research the realities of violence and develop effective tools and strategies for managing it. His expertise has been recognized by various publications, and he has been featured in multiple instructional videos, sharing his insights on combat tactics and self-defense.
At the Combatives Summit, Jerry teaches Adaptive Striking and Concepts Using Cloth/Clothing Grips, Ties, and Trips During a Standing Engagement. This course focuses on utilizing clothing and grips to gain control over an opponent, combining adaptive striking techniques with grappling and trip methods in real-world standing engagements.
Jerry’s relentless commitment to improving self-defense methods ensures his students are well-prepared to handle violent encounters. His innovative techniques in adaptive striking and practical combat applications make him a highly sought-after instructor for those serious about mastering self-defense and tactical training.
Mike Sanford - Expert in Bare Knuckle Combat & MMA Coach
Mike Sanford, also known as Mikey Triangles, is a renowned martial artist and MMA coach with extensive experience in both competitive fighting and coaching high-level athletes. At the Combatives Summit, Mike teaches Bare Knuckle Combat: Clinch and Adaptive Integration, a course that explores the tactical world of bare-knuckle MMA-style fighting. Focusing on clinch work and adaptive integration, participants will learn how to control opponents in close-quarters combat while delivering effective strikes and blending striking with grappling techniques for real-world application.READ MORE
Born in New York, Mike began his martial arts journey with boxing and wrestling as a child, later expanding into traditional martial arts, MMA, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mike lived and trained full-time at the academy of Master Mansor, where he began teaching and competing professionally in 2006. After moving to Florida, he trained under Daniel and Diego Moraes, eventually earning his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In 2010, UFC fighter Alan Belcher hired Mike to take a lead coaching role at his gym in Mississippi. The two eventually became partners before Mike took over the gym to allow Alan to focus on his fighting career.
As a coach, Mike has run numerous fight camps and cornered dozens of high-level MMA and bare-knuckle fighters, helping athletes achieve top rankings in their respective disciplines. His unique perspective on bare-knuckle combat, honed through years of coaching, studying the history of the sport, and competing himself, makes him a leading authority in the field.
At 38 years old, Mike made his professional debut as a mixed martial artist, inspired by the resurgence of bare-knuckle MMA under Jorge Masvidal’s promotion. His experience as both a competitor and coach gives him a unique and highly qualified perspective on the nuances of bare-knuckle fighting, clinch work, and adaptive combat strategies.
Kerry "Kato" Murakami - Expert in Defensive Tactics & Founder of Rectitude Training, LLC
Kerry "Kato" Murakami is a retired law enforcement officer from the State of Illinois with 28 years of experience in the patrol division. As the founder of Rectitude Training, LLC, Kerry is dedicated to training both law enforcement officers and civilian defenders in practical and effective defensive tactics. At the Combatives Summit, Kerry teaches Fight to and Over the Gun: Disarming Techniques for Violent Encounters, a course that equips participants with critical skills for disarming violent actors and maintaining control in close-quarters engagements. Through scenario-based training, attendees learn how to neutralize threats while protecting themselves and others in high-stakes situations.READ MORE
Kerry’s extensive background in law enforcement includes becoming a defensive tactics instructor and field training officer in 1995, a firearms instructor in 2003, and a scenario-based instructor in 2014. As a martial artist, Kerry earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Mark Vives of New Breed Training Center in 2019, further enhancing his ability to blend combatives and real-world defensive tactics.
In addition to leading his department’s combatives club and scenario-based training programs, Kerry has consulted with various law enforcement agencies to help them create and update their own training programs, including combatives and Jiu-Jitsu clubs. His goal is to increase the frequency and consistency of defensive tactics training while reducing injuries for both officers and suspects.
As a preferred provider to the Intergovernmental Risk Management Agency (IRMA), one of the largest risk pools in the Chicagoland area, Kerry’s training is recognized for its effectiveness in reducing risk and injury. In 2022, Kerry became an ILETSB Certified Instructor with four state-certified courses, further establishing him as a leader in the field of law enforcement training.
Nick Delgadillo, Starting Strength
Nick Delgadillo is a highly skilled self-defense, firearms, and strength coach and educator with over 20 years of experience. Throughout his adult life, he has dedicated himself to refining his skills and expertise, focusing on coach development and mentorship.READ MORE
As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt, Nick is a self-defense expert. He is the owner and head coach at Iowa Park Jiu-Jitsu Club in North Texas. In addition, he has helped launch multiple successful self-defense and fitness businesses.
In addition to his martial arts expertise, Nick is a Starting Strength Coach specializing in performance improvement through barbell training. He has been a coach since 2011 and is recognized as a leading expert in the field.
Nick's extensive private security background and years of experience teaching and coaching self-defense make him a highly sought-after presenter and educator. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and expertise with others. Nick is committed to helping his students become stronger, more confident, and better equipped to defend themselves.
Nick is a featured presenter at the Combatives Association Summit, where he will be teaching Stronger is Better. His commitment to excellence and passion for teaching make him a valuable asset to anyone looking to improve their self-defense skills.
Chet Palumbo Esq., The Combative Lawyer
Chet Palumbo is an accomplished attorney who graduated from the Appalachian School of Law in 2010, achieving a top 10% rank in his class. At school, he also served as captain of the mock trial team. In addition, he demonstrated his legal proficiency by passing the Bar exam with flying colors, ranking in the top 5% of all test takers.
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Throughout his career, Palumbo has practiced criminal law in four states and has extensive experience as a Defense Attorney and Prosecutor. He has led over 40 jury trials, ranging from simple misdemeanor assault cases to severe felonies punishable by life imprisonment.
Apart from his legal expertise, Palumbo is a highly skilled martial artist. He holds a Purple Belt in BJJ and a Green Belt in Combatives, with over 100 hours of training in weapons-based grappling and 200 hours of firearms training. Additionally, he has cross-trained in kickboxing and MMA. Palumbo is a Certified NRA Pistol Instructor, emphasizing his proficiency in firearms.
Palumbo is also known for his work on his YouTube channel, "The Combative Lawyer," where he offers insightful commentary on topics related to self-defense law. His exceptional legal and martial arts background has positioned him as a leading authority in the field.
John Valentine - Expert in Combatives, Firearms, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instruction
John Valentine is a distinguished authority in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Modern Army Combatives, and firearms training, with nearly two decades of active military service. A classified shooter and range official in USPSA, John holds a coveted black belt under Matt Larsen, the "Father of Modern Combatives." He has also earned "Top Gun" honors in the Rangemaster Pistol Instructor Development program, and his academic background in Criminal Justice further enhances his comprehensive approach to self-defense and firearms training.READ MORE
John has amassed years of experience as an assistant instructor under Matt Larsen and has served as a primary and affiliate instructor for elite training organizations, including Green Ops, Hill Country Combatives, and Sheepdog Response. He leads the renowned Lift, Shoot, Fight Camp by Starting Strength, which stands as the only open enrollment course teaching the integration of physical fitness, firearms proficiency, and combatives skills.
With thousands of hours of formal training in fitness, firearms, and combatives, John is dedicated to building a solid foundation of safety and fundamentals for his students. As an instructor at the Combatives Summit, John focuses on Fundamentals and Safety: Building the Foundation of Combatives Training, sharing his wealth of expertise to empower others in mastering self-defense and tactical applications.
Past Summit Speakers/Presenters
The Combatives Summit has featured some of the most elite instructors in the world, with decades of combined experience across multiple disciplines. Past presenters have set a high bar for excellence, offering unique insights into combatives, tactical training, and real-world self-defense.
Some of the notable past presenters include:
- Craig Douglas – Expert in close-quarters combat and scenario-based training.
- Matt Larsen – "Father of Modern Combatives" and developer of the U.S. Army’s combatives program.
- Cecil Burch – Specialist in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and tactical application of various martial arts techniques.
- Cliff Byerly – Expert in tactics and high-risk control tactics.
- Nick Delgadillo – Renowned strength coach with extensive experience in performance training.
- Cole Miller – UFC veteran and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, specializing in clinch control.
- Ben Aubin – Expert in weapons-based defense and application.
- Guy Schnitzler – Law enforcement veteran and expert in small impact weapons and close-quarters defense.
- Aaron Jannetti – Knife defense and combatives instructor, specializing in weapon retention.
- Sam Ferguson – Police officer and competitive grappler, focusing on control techniques.
- Jerry Wetzel – Adaptive striking and scenario-based combatives expert.
- Chet Palumbo – Legal expert training specialist in lawful use of firearms and combatives.
- Devin Crinklaw – Tactics instructor with expertise in close-quarters tactics.
- Fletch Fuller – Law enforcement training supervisor and weapons retention expert.
- David "Boon" Benton – Former CIA contractor, firearms instructor, and tactical training specialist.
These past presenters have laid the groundwork for our future summits, bringing unparalleled knowledge and hands-on experience to every attendee. Their collective contributions have shaped the Combatives Summit into its premier event today.