A fight gym.
Not a fitness center.

Prof. Ricardo Almeida

Head Instructor & Founder

Black Belt, 3rd Degree

Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Helio Gracie > Royler Gracie > Ricardo Almeida

• IBJJF World Champion 2018
• ADCC Trials Qualifier 2019
• Pan American Gold 2016
• 20+ years teaching experience

Professor Ricardo founded Cypress Combat Club in 2012 after competing internationally for over a decade. A third-degree black belt under Royler Gracie, he brings a methodical, detail-oriented approach to instruction. He still competes in Masters divisions and believes every student — from day-one white belts to seasoned competitors — deserves the same quality of attention on the mat.

Kru Somchai Rattanapong

Head Muay Thai Coach

Khan 12

Trained at Sitsongpeenong, Bangkok

• Former Lumpinee Stadium fighter
• 200+ fights in Thailand
• IFMA Coach Certification
• 15 years coaching in the US

Kru Somchai brings authentic Thai boxing to Los Angeles. With over 200 professional fights in Thailand including bouts at Lumpinee Stadium, he teaches Muay Thai the way it was taught to him — with respect for tradition and relentless attention to fundamentals. His classes are known for building fighters who are technically sharp and mentally tough.

Coach Darius Cole

MMA Head Coach

BJJ Brown Belt

• Former professional MMA fighter (12-3)
• Cornered 5 UFC fighters
• NASM Certified
• Wrestling All-American (D2)

Coach Darius transitioned from a successful professional MMA career to coaching full-time in 2019. A former D2 wrestling All-American with a 12-3 professional record, he specializes in integrating disciplines and preparing fighters for competition. He's cornered fighters at every level from amateur smokers to the UFC octagon.