Instructors

Robson Moura Black Belt, John Givens, is the owner and head Jiu Jitsu instructor of the LAB Martial Arts & Fitness Center. He started his journey more than 13 years ago under the tutelage of 3rd degree Black Belt, John Rallo, of Ground Control Baltimore. When he relocated, his passion for the sport only grew and he joined the group from Londontowne Mat Club under Professor Rich Hoffman. Accepting the next career opportunity, he started planning and managing Jiu Jitsu tournaments throughout the entire East Coast, where he had the privilege to train with some of the greatest talents on the mats. Moving to Talbot County Maryland, he took the role of head Jiu Jitsu instructor at a martial arts studio where he crossed paths with local 3rd degree Black Belt, Leandro Azara. The two became fast friends and soon Leandro introduced John to 4th degree Black Belt, Master Robson Moura. John’s admiration and respect for the sport is surpassed only by his commitment and esteem for RMNU Robson Moura and his team of incredible athletes. He continues to learn under the direction of Master Robson and trains regularly with affiliate 3rd degree Black Belt, Jeff Mitchell.

Jeff Mitchell is a guest instructor from Elite Jiu Jitsu and is a 2nd American Black Belt under famed 8X World Champion Robson Moura.

Ms Kari has been training in the American Freestyle program since the fall of 2005. When she was red belt, she started assisting with classes, and continued to do so once she got her 1st Degree Black Belt in 2008. She became a Head Instructor once she earned her 2nd Degree, and she been in charge of classes and running programs ever since.

AJ has been training for the past 22 years and started his journey at the age of 8. He received his black belt under the amazing training and approval of Master Jim Sherman of Sherman’s Martial Arts. Throughout the journey of his training, he has assisted in teaching and running programs. He has also trained in many defense tactics, ground control, hand to hand combat, weapons disarming and pressure point manipulation. 

He earned his black belt in Karate in 2017 and is currently a brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu. Ian loves to compete in grappling tournaments and super fights as often as possible. He is the reigning “Battle 4 the Ages” absolute champion. Helping to teach the “littles” is one of his favorite parts of being on the leadership team. Ian also enjoyed wrestling on the Queens Annes county varsity wrestling team when in high school. He excels at incorporating his wrestling into Jiu-Jitsu and teaches the younger students new wrestling techniques as well.

Andre began wrestling at age 8 in 2011. In 2012, he finished 2nd in the state wrestling tournament. He wrestled for St. Michaels High School. He began his Jiu-Jitsu career in 2015 under John Givens. Andre is a fierce competitor, earning many 1st place tournament wins as well as Super Fight wins. He currently holds the rank of a purple belt and enjoys teaching the “littles” during Jiu-Jitsu classes.

He started Jiu-Jitsu in 2014 and quickly found a passion for the sport. Nick has become a savvy competitor earning many victories that were won in just under a minute! Jiu-Jitsu has built Nick’s confidence, and he now looks to share his passion with others joining the leadership team.