ABOUT
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a highly effective self-defence martial art and combat sport focused on takedowns, grappling, ground fighting, and submission holds. Many people hesitate to start because they believe they need to be in great shape first. This is understandable—especially from the outside looking in—but at Perth Combat Club, you’ll quickly see that BJJ truly is for everyone.
Our mats welcome people of all ages, body types, and fitness levels, training side-by-side in a supportive environment. Whether you’re here for fitness, self-defence, competition, or personal growth, you’ll experience both the physical and mental benefits of training in a realistic and empowering martial art.
BJJ teaches you how to overcome larger, stronger opponents using technique, body awareness, and skill—not brute strength. This ability builds confidence, provides peace of mind, and fosters resilience that carries into every area of life—school, work, and beyond.
Ready to start your journey? Email us at perthcombat@gmail.com for details on our kids, adult (13+), and women’s self-protection classes.
COACHES
FRANK UNGARO
head instructor | passador BJJ
Frank Ungaro is the Head Instructor at Passador BJJ and a highly respected martial artist with decades of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. He began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1994 and was promoted to 4th Degree Blue Belt at the Gracie Academy in Torrance, California. Frank went on to earn his 3rd Degree Black Belt in BJJ under Professor Jose Mario Queiroga Esfiha, Co-Founder of the world-renowned Brasa Team. In addition to his accomplishments in BJJ, he holds a Judo Black Belt from the prestigious Kodokan in Osaka, Japan.
MIKE MCKENNA
owner | head coach
Mike McKenna is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt and our head coach from Smiths Falls, Ontario. With a solid background of over 15 years in wrestling, boxing, and Muay Thai, Mike combines his diverse skills to provide effective training for students of all levels. His journey in martial arts has been marked by a successful mixed martial arts career, and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge with the local community. Known for his approachable coaching style, Mike fosters a supportive environment where students can grow and develop their skills.
JOSH PRESLEY
coach
Josh Presley is a highly accomplished Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt with extensive international competition experience. At brown belt, he captured a silver medal at the 2024 IBJJF World Championships in Las Vegas—a clear testament to his elite skill level and dedication to the sport.
On the mats, Josh blends technical precision with a friendly and approachable coaching style. He fosters an environment where students of all levels feel supported, motivated, and challenged to reach their potential. By translating his world-class competition experience into practical, effective instruction, Josh is an invaluable part of our coaching team.
DUY NGUYEN
COACH
Duy Nguyen received his purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Frank Ungaro. With six years of experience on the mats, Duy has honed his skills in both grappling and striking, having also practiced Muay Thai and Tae Kwon Do. Duy earned his black belt in Tai Kwon Do at age 17 from Master Chong Lee . His diverse background in martial arts gives him a well-rounded approach to training, coaching, and helping students improve their overall combat abilities.
RYAN GEMMELL
COACH
With over a decade of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu experience, particularly in NoGi. Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge and a fun, engaging approach to the mats. A purple belt under Professor Frank Ungaro, he has competed across Canada, the USA, and Europe—sharing not only his technical skill but also his passion for the art with every class.
TYLER BRETT
coach
Tyler Brett is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach and blue belt dedicated to training the next generation of martial artists; instilling discipline and confidence in his students. Tyler boasts a successful competition record, highlighted by winning double gold medals at the 2023 World Police and Fire Games. His passion for BJJ and commitment to teaching make him a valuable mentor in the local community.
WILL WRIGHT
COACH
Since 2020, William has immersed himself in combat sports—starting with boxing, then MMA, and most recently Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He has competed in multiple amateur bouts in Boxing, MMA and Grappling, earning several wins along the way. While MMA remains his passion, his training focus is on BJJ, where he is a skilled No-Gi practitioner and a blue belt in the Gi under Professor Frank Ungaro.
STEVE NEEDHAM
WRESTLING COACH
A lifelong competitor and multi-sport athlete, Steve Needham Jr. has built an impressive career in Olympic and Greco-Roman wrestling, with experience in Judo, Sambo, and MMA. He has captured multiple provincial and national wrestling titles, represented Team Ontario at the Canada Winter Games, wrestled for Brock University, and earned international podium finishes in Sambo.
Now a dedicated coach and trainer, Steve brings his passion for martial arts and years of elite competition to helping athletes of all ages grow in skill, confidence, and strength—both on the mats and beyond.
