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    Head Professor Mike Buckels

    Regional Director | O’Fallon Instructor

    Mike is a master level practitioner of the martial arts with over 25 years of experience and holding 7 degrees of black belt in various forms of martial arts including a 3rd-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under Master Carlos Gracie Jr. and professor Marcio Feitosa. Mike has over 30 Podiums in International, National and State martial arts competition including the IBJJF Pan American, Copa Pacifica, and WKSA World Championship making him one of the most decorated and experienced instructors in the area.

    Although professor Mike was born right here in St. Louis, the majority of his martial arts training took place in California, where he lived for almost 18 years. Living in Southern California allowed Mike to train at some of the most prestigious schools and study with some of the best instructors in the world such as Carlos Gracie Jr. During his stay in Southern California Mike established himself as one of the most respected members of the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community becoming the first American technical director named to the IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation).

    Ranks and Certifications

     
    C.B.J.J. , I.B.J.J.F. and U.S.B.J.J.F. Black Belt 3rd Degree in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
     
    I.B.J.J.F. referee
     
    M.T.I.A. Certified Kru (Black Belt) in Muay Thai
     
    U.S.A. judo brown belt (2nd degree) in Judo
     
    W.K.S.A. black belt 2nd stripe in Kuk Sul Hapkido
     
    California state judo coach
     
    Gracie Barra certified instructor
     
    Gracie Barra regional director

    “ I, like many instructors have been fortunate to win many competitions. However, I asked to be judged on my quality as an instructor by the performance of my students. Please come in watch me teach and see the level of technique that happens on our mats. You won’t be disappointed!” – Professor Mike Buckels

    Professor Mike’s Student’s Titles

     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation World champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation World no-gi champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation Pan American champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation American National champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation U.S. Open champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation American Cup champion
     
    International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation Kids PanAmerican champion
     
    North American Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation American National champion
     
    North American Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation American World champion
     
    American Grappling Federation National Champion
     
    Pan American of Submission Grappling champion
     
    USA World Judo team member
     
    NCAA Judo champion
     
    W.K.S.A. World champion
     
    King of the Cage MMA World champion
     
    Professor Mike has also cornered Strikeforce, W.E.C. and King of the Cage veterans