BIOGRAPHY
SELF DEFENCE / MARTIAL ARTS IN BASILDON ESSEX
I began my Self Defence / Martial arts journey in Basildon at the age of 13, training in Tang Soo Do under Master Loke. However, this stint was short-lived, spanning around three months. Subsequently, for the next 14 years, I remained devoid of any Martial Arts training. However, it wasn’t until August 1999 that I reignited my passion, embarking on Wing Chun Kung Fu training under Sifu Ashley Philips (UKWCKFA). Diligently training four times a week over the course of several years, I advanced to a high level and assumed the role of assistant Instructor at the Canvey Island branch.
THE NEED FOR GROUND FIGHTING (GRACIE JIU-JITSU)
Recognizing a deficiency in ground-fighting skills within my system, I sought out Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) as the solution. Alongside my training partner Vince Carter, I delved into self-teaching through books until a stroke of luck led me to a Royce Gracie seminar nearby. It was there that I crossed paths with Dan Burzotta (TSG MMA), a distinguished Ground-Fighter, marking the commencement of my training with him. Three years of intensive one-on-one lessons and independent practice later, I proudly received my Blue Belt in 2004.
THE ART OF EIGHT LIMBS (MUAY THAI)
Expanding my skill set, I embarked on Muay Thai training under the tutelage of Kru Brad Goldberg (BENFLEET MUAY THAI CLUB), captivated by their technique in leg blocks, knees, and clinch work. This journey also introduced me to the intricacies of Boxing. In 2009, I ventured into Judo training with Sensei Dean Bolton (CANVEY ISLAND JUDO CLUB), mastering throws, takedowns, and defence techniques, earning my yellow belt after just three months.
Moreover, for the past 16 years, I’ve trained extensively with Vince Carter, who boasts over 30 years of experience in various Martial Arts disciplines, enriching my own knowledge and skills through our collaboration.
MIXING IT UP
In January 2014, I embraced Kali training under Master Chris Perry and Instructor Rob Drew (W.O.F.A). Subsequently, I embarked on an intensive Dirty Boxing (Panantukan) program with JKD Master Daniel Sullivan (WARRIOR ARTS ALLIANCE) in 2016. Additionally, I had the privilege of attending the first-ever Lethwei seminar in the U.K. led by Dave Leduc, the 4x undisputed Open Weight World Champion, in November 2018. In 2019, Dave Leduc returned to the U.K. as a 6x World Champion to conduct another seminar in England, which I was privately invited to by email.
THE FORMING OF ULTIMATE STREET DEFENCE: SELF DEFENCE / MARTIAL ARTS IN BASILDON ESSEX
The culmination of these experiences led to the formation of Ultimate Street Defence (USD) in late December 2012. USD amalgamates Muay Thai, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Wing Chun, Dirty Boxing, Judo, Jujutsu, Lethwei, Panantukan, Combatives, and MMA into a comprehensive Self Defence system tailored for practical street scenarios. My journey continues unabated, driven by a commitment to perpetual learning, training, and evolution as a Martial Artist.
