Shih Yen

Karate • Muay Thai • Hapkido

Shih Yen, a devoted and enthusiastic martial artist, is committed to sharing his extensive journey and expertise with you.

With over three decades of dedication to combat sports, he has immersed himself in the practice and philosophy of Karate, Muay Thai, and Hapkido. While continuing his journey as a kickboxing instructor, Shih Yen has also embraced the role of a student, exploring various styles such as Judo and BJJ.

For Shih Yen, imparting the knowledge and wisdom of martial arts to others brings profound joy. Witnessing his students’ progress and transformation is incredibly rewarding. Join Shih Yen on this empowering journey, and discover the transformative power of martial arts.

Qualifications
  • Karate – 4th Degree Black Belt 
  • Muay Thai – Advanced, Muay Thai Christchurch (2019–2023)
  • Hapkido – Black Belt & Certified Instructor
Coaching Experience – 27 years coaching experience
  • Tobukai Shotokan Karate Coach
  • Little Power MMA – Kickboxing Coach
Achievements
  • Canterbury Kata (Pattern) & Freestyle Kumite (Bout) Champion (1998–2001, 2017–2021)
  • New Zealand Open Championship – Men’s Open Division Freestyle Kumite (Bout) Silver Medalist (2018)
  • New Zealand National Championship – Veteran Kata (Pattern) Gold Medalist (2020)

Sharif Al Khadra

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt

Sharif Al Khadra is a distinguished Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a competitive journey spanning over a decade and across multiple continents.


His dedication to the art began in 2010 in the Philippines, where he laid the foundation for his future success. His path then led him to Dubai, where he refined his technique at the world-renowned Team Nogueira Dubai, training amongst elite practitioners. In 2021, Sharif’s journey brought him to New Zealand, where he now trains and teaches as a key member of the Checkmat Christchurch team. In 2023, after years of dedication, he earned his black belt
under Gregory Watson.


Sharif’s competitive career is highlighted by numerous victories. While based in the UAE, he dominated the local scene, winning competitions across Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, and Ajman. He has consistently proven his skills on the international stage, securing titles at high-ranking tournaments throughout Asia and Europe, including the AJP Pro, the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, and the SJJF Asian Open.


As a seasoned competitor and passionate instructor, Sharif brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of technique, and a proven champion’s mindset to the mat.

Angel

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu • Yaw-Yan

Hailing from Cebu City, Philippines, Angel’s combat sports journey began in 2012 with boxing. Driven by an interest in a sport that utilized lower body power, she soon found her calling in the Filipino martial art of Yaw-yan, or “Sayaw ng Kamatayan” (Dance of Death). Expanding her skill set to include grappling for Mixed Martial Arts, she made history as the first woman in Cebu to compete in and win an amateur MMA fight.


In 2016, Angel relocated to the United Arab Emirates and dedicated herself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Training under esteemed coaches and at the world-renowned Team Nogueira Dubai, she quickly established herself as a dominant force on the international BJJ circuit. Her decorated career in the region saw her become a two-time Abu Dhabi World Pro Champion.

Major Achievements

Gold Medalist

  • Abu Dhabi World Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2021)
  • Abu Dhabi World Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2018)
  • RAK International Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2018)
  • Fujairah International Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2018)
  • Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu Jitsu World Tour (2017)
  • Dubai International Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2017)
  • Ajman International Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2017)

Silver Medalist

  • Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu Jitsu Championship (2019)
  • Dubai International Pro Jiu Jitsu Championship (2018)

Bronze Medalist

  • AJP Tour UAE National Pro (2021)

Her journey continued in 2021 when she moved to New Zealand and joined Checkmat Christchurch, where she earned her well-deserved brown belt.

Alex Godoy

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Alex, hailing from Brazil, is a man of discipline with a good sense of humor. As a passionate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, his classes are infused with his vibrant energy. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to mastering fundamentals, Alex eagerly shares his expertise with his students. Join him on the mats to experience firsthand the depth of knowledge and skill he brings to the practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Training: Dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner under the mentorship of IBJJF Champion Gregory Watson at Roll One Jiu-Jitsu Academy (Checkmat).

Achievements
  • Currently holds a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
  • Competition record of 13 wins