Meet Sifu Jeramiah, a seasoned Black Belt Martial Artist and Instructor with expertise spanning multiple martial arts disciplines. His teaching repertoire includes Contemporary JKD & FMA (Progressive Fighting Systems), Inosanto-Lacoste Kali-Silat, Submissions Grappling and Israeli Krav Maga. In addition, he imparts knowledge on Active Shooter Defense, Rapid Assault Tactics, Military Edged Weapons, and Escape To Gain Safety - Self-Defense, incorporating elements of Reality Based Weapons (Blunt & Edged Combatives), Empty-Hand Self-Defense, Clinch-Fighting, Mass Attack, and Gun Defenses.
Sifu Jeramiah's journey into martial arts began in the challenging environment of his childhood, facing real-world self-defense situations against bullies and gangsters. His father's advice to stand his ground and respond assertively shaped his early approach to conflict. Seeking both confidence and a positive transformation, Sifu Jeramiah turned to martial arts, finding it to be a life-changing experience that not only empowered him to defend himself but also instilled a newfound sense of confidence.
His formal martial arts training started in the late '80s with self-study, influenced by Bruce Lee's philosophy as presented in "The Tao of Jeet Kune Do." The transformative impact of martial arts during his high school years, akin to "The Karate Kid," led him to become an exceptional Black Belt Martial Arts Instructor. Wrestling in high school and teaching Taekwondo marked early milestones, earning him the moniker "Ninja Boy." Martial arts not only provided him with effective self-defense skills but also helped him overcome insecurities and redirect his life.
Sifu Jeramiah's journey extended into the realm of MMA, incorporating Muay Thai, Trap Fighting (an offshot of Shoot Fighting), and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after witnessing the rise of the UFC. However, a work injury to his low back and a subsequent car accident during recovery presented setbacks, accompanied by a harrowing attempted mugging in South Phoenix. These challenges became a turning point, prompting him to rediscover his martial arts roots and resume training in Krav Maga, emphasizing real-world scenarios, mass attacks, and weapon defenses.
Throughout his martial arts odyssey, Sifu Jeramiah faced various setbacks, including chronic low back pain from injuries. However, his indomitable spirit led him to teach PE, adapting a blend of Taekwondo and Krav Maga for K-3rd graders, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community. He continued to acquire certifications, ranks, and instructorships, becoming a Full Instructor in Contemporary Jeet Kune Do & FMA / Kali under Sifu Paul Vunak, among other achievements.
The influence of the UFC spurred him to train in various martial arts systems, including Krav Maga and Haganah, highlighting the limitations of MMA for street scenarios. Sifu Jeramiah emphasizes the importance of understanding all ranges of combat, incorporating weapons and mass attack training to prepare for real-world situations.
Despite enduring setbacks, Sifu Jeramiah's dedication to martial arts remains unwavering. He became the Head Coach of the San Diego Chinatown JKD in 2017, started the Cali Combat Systems Training Group, and trained individuals across diverse professions. His commitment to "Keeping the Blade Sharp" reflects his continuous pursuit of knowledge, training with top martial artists like Guro Dan Inosanto, and Sifu Paul Vunak, among others.
Sifu Jeramiah's extensive resume includes certifications in law enforcement control tactics, active shooter defense, and various martial arts disciplines. He has trained with esteemed figures such as Guro Dan Inosanto, Guro Burton Richardson, Tuhon Apolo Ladra, and Master Anthony Landgren, among others.
Beyond martial arts, Sifu Jeramiah is a multi-talented individual, serving as a public speaker, content curator, writer, blogger, and eBook publisher. His diverse skill set extends to various fields, showcasing his versatility and passion for continuous learning.
If you're interested in authentic Jeet Kune Do, Kali-Silat, Combat Jiu-Jitsu or Israeli Krav Maga with a direct lineage from the legendary Sigung Bruce Lee and Guro Dan Inosanto, Sifu Jeramiah welcomes you to join his training sessions.
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