Meet The Founders

  • Co-Founder

    Jeremiah dabbled in Karate & Tai Chi in his youth, but it wasn’t until 2015 that he committed his self to the martial arts, namely Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In 2022, Jeremiah earned his black belt from Professor Mike Jaramillo at Renzo Gracie Headquarters in Manhattan where his studies focus on no gi submission grappling & grappling for MMA.

    He is a program director here at WTMA, where he oversees the kickboxing & fitness program. You can find him teaching a wide range of classes, from kickboxing & calisthenics to all levels & ages in BJJ.

  • Co-Founder

    Fernando Ferreira, a dedicated practitioner and passionate instructor in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. With a formidable skill set and a heart full of determination, Fernando rises among his peers as a brown belt, a testament to his unwavering commitment and undying love for the martial arts. Under the watchful guidance of esteemed mentors, Professor Stewart Carroll and Professor Rich Preshong, Fernando has honed his techniques over the course of seven transformative years. Their profound knowledge and guidance have elevated Fernando's prowess, instilling in him the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance.

    Fueled by his unwavering passion for the art, Fernando has now embarked on a new chapter, opening his very own martial arts academy. At this academy, he aims to share his wealth of expertise and inspire others to embrace the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His teaching style promotes both physical and mental growth, empowering his students to unlock their potential while fostering a strong community spirit.

Our Partners

  • Established in 1996, the Renzo Gracie Academy in Midtown Manhattan continues being one of the world’s leading schools in martial arts.

    “We are not in the business of martial arts. We are in the business of building confidence. Confidence not only to defend yourself—we help build the confidence required to face life.”

    ~ Master Renzo Gracie | Founder

    Renzo has fought all over the world for organizations such as UFC and Pride Fighting Championships. He pioneered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the United States in the 1990’s when he founded the Renzo Gracie Academy in New York City, being one of the cornerstones of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in America. Today RGA has over 70 active affiliates across the globe.

    He has established himself as one of the most renowned BJJ instructors and mentors in the sport with his signature combination of charisma and intelligence. He has guided UFC champions such as Matt Serra and Frankie Edgar, Roger Gracie a 10x Jiu-Jitsu world champion, John Danaher the Jiu-Jitsu coach to UFC Champions Georges St-Pierre & Chris Weidman and ADCC Champion Gordon Ryan.

  • We Defy provides combat veterans coping with military connected disabilities a long term means to overcome their challenges through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and fitness training.

    Core Values:

    WE ARE COMMITTED to our country, to creating a better life for our veterans and their families, our team, and accomplishing our mission by providing training and support.

    WE EMPOWER through integrity, discipline, personal accountability, mental and physical development, improved coordination, flexibility, adaptability, confidence, patience, and selfless service.

    WE EVOLVE and expand our reach with the help of our volunteers, our sponsors, and approved training facilities to stay relevant and effective for the long term.

    For more information visit WeDefyFoundtaion.org

“

If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants.

- Isaac Newton