MEET OUR MARTIAL ARTS INSTRUCTORS
Charles Cherry
Head Instructor
Professor Charles Cherry (we affectionately refer to him as "Coach") is a lifelong martial artist who has studied multiple martial art disciplines over 40 years. His passion is teaching effective self defense while also building confidence in his students. His early martial arts backgrounds include Wing Chun Kung Fu, Tang Soo Do, Shito Ryu Karate, Western Boxing, Wrestling, and Muay Thai. Coach Cherry is an International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) 3rd Degree Black Belt. He holds a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kodokan Judo. Coach Cherry wrestled for a Division II college in Virginia and wrestled Freestyle while enlisted in the U.S. Army. Coach Cherry holds ranks in Japanese Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing from Duke Roufus, and he is a certified Krav Maga instructor. In addition to his impressive competition record, he was the head coach for the Bowie Boys and Girls Wrestling team for 10 years. He was also an assistant wrestling coach at St. John's Catholic High School in Washington D.C.. Coach Cherry has trained numerous wrestling , BJJ, and MMA champions.
Professor Cherry is a retired Federal Law Enforcement Officer with over 28 years of law enforcement experience. He has trained federal agents for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Treasury, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Marshal Service on Firearms, Defensive Tactics, Active Shooter Threats, and Use of Force. Professor Cherry is certified by the Maryland State Police to teach Handgun Qualification and Concealed Carry to Maryland residents.
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Professor Cherry has a master's degree in business and a master's degree in applied Behavior Analysis. He is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst.
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Professor Cherry is a published author of "Bully Proofing your Child" and he was inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame class of 2024.
Akaash Malik
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor
Akaash Malik began his martial arts journey at 21, inspired by a close friend's introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Drawn to the art's ability to empower smaller, more technical practitioners to overcome larger, stronger opponents, he devoted himself to mastering its techniques. In November 2024, Akaash earned his Black Belt in BJJ under Professor Charles Cherry.
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At Bellicose Martial Arts, he plays a vital role in the Kids' BJJ program and steps in to lead adult classes. His teaching style focuses on technical precision and adaptability, leveraging his experience as a smaller practitioner to emphasize the significance of both intricate details and fundamental techniques.
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To further expand his martial arts repertoire, Akaash is currently studying Thai Kickboxing, Wrestling, and Judo. His goal is to become a well-rounded martial artist and incorporate elements from these disciplines into his instruction, providing students with a diverse and comprehensive skill set.
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"Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." - Pablo Picasso
Coach DJ
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor
David "DJ" Jennings began training Tang Soo Do at the age of 6, building on a foundation of Japanese Jiu Jitsu. Over time, his focus evolved primarily into stand-up fighting, as he integrated Boxing, Kickboxing, and Muay Thai into his practice. His love for grappling, especially throws, eventually led him to explore Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and Judo throughout his martial arts journey.
Teaching has always been one of DJ's true passions. Since earning his black belt in Tang Soo Do at the age of 12, he has worked closely with youth and adults, helping others develop their skills in striking, takedowns, and grappling. DJ earned his Black Belt in BJJ in December 2024.
At his home gym, Bellicose Martial Arts, DJ emphasizes mentoring the next generation of martial artists, including practitioners, competitors, and future instructors and coaches.
Outside of martial arts, DJ continues his dedication to helping others by working in Applied Behavior Analysis, where he focuses on supporting individuals to achieve greater independence and personal safety.
Professor Carlos David
Guest Instructor - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Carlos David Oliviera is a fifth degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under the legendary 2 time world champion Roberto "The Spider" Traven. He is also a professional MMA fighter and founder of Evolution Fight Team. Carlos David teaches the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Richmond, Virginia.
MEET OUR CARDIO KICKBOXING INSTRUCTORS
Coach Kiya is a certified Personal Trainer through the American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA), and also certified in yoga.
Coach Manny is International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) certified Personal Trainer, with specializations in Glutes, and Exercise Recovery.
Coach Cynthia is certified in Step Aerobics and Cardio Kickboxing through the American Sports and Fitness Association (ASFA),
Coach Teeiree is certified with the American Aerobic Association International and International Sport Medicine Association (AAAI/ISMA). She specializes in Personal Training and Group Fitness.