Shaping the future
Training at an American Krav Maga Federation certified training center will help you reach your self-defense and fitness related goals. It will also give you a foundation for your continued development, training, and learning. AKMF self-defense is built on a system of levels that progress in terms of complexity of techniques as well as the complexity of the overall self-defense scenarios. In higher levels we teach students to defend themselves on the ground, against multiple attackers, and even against attackers armed with blunt weapons, knives and guns.
What is Krav Maga?
Krav Maga (Hebrew for Contact Combat)
is the official hand-to-hand combat system for the Israeli Defense Forces. It is one of the most preferred systems for the U.S. military and law enforcement personnel.
A Brief History
Founder of Krav Maga
Krav Maga was developed by Czechoslovakian-born Imi Lichtenfeld, a champion heavyweight boxer, an expert in Ju-Jitsu and Judo as well as a dancer and trapeze acrobat. Imi’s family was forced to emigrate, eventually landing in what was then Palestine and is now known as Israel.
Krav Maga becomes official combatives for israeli military and security forces
Soon after the Israeli state was established in 1948, Imi was asked to develop a system of fighting and self-defense for the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). Imi carefully refined Krav Maga during his career as chief instructor of hand to hand combat for the IDF. Beginning with special forces units like the Haganah, Palmack, and Palyam, Krav Maga became the official combatives training for all military personnel, Israeli police and security forces. Faced with the task of preparing both fit and out-of-shape soldiers, Imi developed a comprehensive system that relied on simple, instinctive moves rather than rigid techniques requiring years of training.
In 1964, Imi retired from the IDF and began teaching Krav Maga to civilians, law enforcement, and military applications. In 1978, Imi and several of his students created the Krav Maga Association, which was aimed at promoting the teaching of Krav Maga in Israel and throughout the world.
Krav Maga Eyal Yanilov studied Krav Maga under the personal tutelage of Imi and has served as the Grand Master’s closest assistant and foremost disciple since the early 1980s. Active in this field since 1973, he is now its most senior instructor. Mr. Yanilov is the only individual who carries the highest grade ever given by Imi. Since directing the first self-defense instructors course for U.S. citizens in 1981, Eyal has been teaching a large number of Krav Maga and self-defense instructors courses in many countries around the world, under the auspices of the Israeli Ministry of Education and the International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF).
In 1981, the Krav Maga Association of Israel and the Israeli Ministry of Education held the first International Instructor’s Course at Wingate Institute for Physical Education. A delegation of 23 members from various cities in the U.S. attended the course, which was supervised by Imi himself. Californian Darren Levine was selected to be part of the delegation because of his martial arts and boxing background, as well as his involvement in the physical education program at the Heschel Day School near L.A. During the course, Imi befriended Levine and told him that he would come to the U.S. to teach and train him.
Krav Maga Levine went on to offer Krav Maga classes at the Heschel Day School. At Imi’s request, Levine and one of his students, Joel Bernstein, along with other prominent members of the Jewish community in L.A., formed the Krav Maga Association of America, Inc. In 1987, Levine and his top students began teaching Krav Maga to law enforcement in the U.S. Under Imi’s guidance, they adapted Krav Maga to suit the needs of U.S. law enforcement and military personnel.
Shortly after Levine received his 6th degree black belt in Krav Maga, Imi awarded him a Founder’s Diploma for Special Excellence in Krav Maga. Imi has awarded this diploma only twice. Eyal Yanilov had also received the prestigious diploma. These diplomas were given to the people that Imi wanted to be the leaders of Krav Maga.
“Pain equals compliance.”
Joseph “Chappy” Bouchard
Krav Maga is a way of life
Why AKMF
Since 2010 the AKMF has established itself as an organization of excellence. Our instructors and staff are comprised of life long Martial Artists, Military and Law Enforcement Officers. We ruthlessly test all our techniques, not just in the classroom, but in real world environments, where only victory matters. Our organization has trained some of our nation’s best in the Special Operation (MIL) and Special Weapons and Tactics (LE) community. We take the feedback from those who use our craft in the most hostile of situations, dissect the techniques and ensure that the AKMF is armed with only what works when it matters most.
AKMF ADVANTAGES
Modern Day Tactics
AKMF represents decades of “end user testing” and continues to evolve based on the modern-day battlefield, requirements, and other necessities.
Complimentary
AKMF techniques complement all other martial arts programs.
Linked Techniques
Provides task specific skill sets and linkage of techniques to end user.
High Stress Situations
Employable techniques in high stress environments.
Standardized
Standardization of crucial skills.
Tried and Tested
Has been implemented within Conventional, Special Operation Military Forces and Law Enforcement with a high level of success.
The AKMF Organization
Mark Cox
AKMF Chief Executive Officer
Carson Fortner
Director of Business Operations
Nathan Carlen
Joseph Bouchard
East Coast Defensive Tactics Chief
Chris Crouch
Communications Officer
be unstopable. join today.
Learn More about the AKMF Guiding Force
Danny Hazan
Danny Hazan is our Israeli Krav Maga Instructor. Born in Israel, he started martial arts at the age of ten with Shotokan Karate, Krav Maga, and Russian
wrestling.
Mr. Hazan married his beautiful wife at the age of 23; they have one daughter who currently lives in Germany.
Mr. Hazan currently holds eight black belts in different styles: 2nd degree in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 2nd degree in Judo, 8th degree in Shotokan Karate, and 8th degree in Krav Maga. He currently has an academy in Israel called AIKMA.
Mr. Hazan also served in a special forces unit in the Israeli military for three-and-a-half years. (This is common for most Israeli soldiers.) He served during the Lebanon war. After finishing with the army, he
taught basic Krav Maga to special forces units. After coaching these units, he started training around the world, sharing his expert knowledge of Krav Maga.
“Don’t train like you work for Starbucks—train for war.”
Mark Cox
started his training in 1983 under Grand Master Dennis Ichikawa in Tarzana, Los Angeles, CA. His love for the martial arts and teaching, even when he was a lower ranking student, was evident fromthe beginning.
Mr. Cox was born and raised in California. He earned his 1st degree black belt in Tang Soo Do under Dennis Ichikawa in 1987.
He has four children: Michael, Gabriel, Daniel,
and Ariel.
Mr. Cox had very meager beginnings; in 1987, Mr. Cox was a machinist and part-time pool man with a mega dream. His dream was to have a martial arts studio that impacted the lives of thousands. His goal was to have over 100 Black Belts. Through God’s direction and his own perseverance, Mr. Cox now operates one of the largest schools in the San Fernando Valley that presently has over 500 Black Belts.
Carson Fortner
Owner and Head Instructor of Pooler Karate, Carson Fortner started his training in 1994 under Charles Prescott in Sylvania, Georgia. In 2005 he recieved his first degree Black Belt in American Tang Soo Do under the American Tang Soo Do Alliance. In 2007 he recieved his second degree Black Belt , and in 2011 he recieved his third degree Black Belt in American Tang Soo Do. He earned is 4th degree in December of 2014 earning him the title of Master. Mr. Fortner earned his 5th degree Black Belt in November of 2019. He is currently a 3rd degree Black Belt in Krav Maga.
He has always had a passion for teaching children and enjoys watching them develop into amazing young people. It has always been Mr. Fortner’s dream to have a martial arts school and to create a home for his own students.
Joseph "Chappy" Bouchard
Joseph Bouchard stands as the Chief Force Instructor for the American Krav Maga Federation (AKMF), and Chief Krav Maga Instructor at Pooler Krav Maga, bringing a wealth of expertise garnered from a distinguished military career and extensive martial arts certifications.
Military Excellence: With over two decades of service in the United States Army, Joseph’s military journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to serving his country. From his early days as an Infantryman to his time as a Ranger in the renowned 75th Ranger Regiment, Joseph’s leadership, and combat skills have been honed in some of the most challenging environments. Throughout his 21-year career, he undertook various roles and completed numerous specialized training programs, embodying the values of discipline, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
Martial Arts Mastery: Joseph’s passion for martial arts and self-defense led him to acquire an impressive array of certifications, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier instructor. As a 2nd Dan Blackbelt in Krav Maga under the American Krav Maga Federation (AKMF), Joseph brings unparalleled expertise in practical self-defense techniques tailored for real-world scenarios. Additionally, his proficiency extends to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, where he holds a Purple Belt under the tutelage of Sergio Machado. Furthermore, as a Kalah Combat Systems Instructor, Joseph is adept at imparting cutting-edge combat techniques to his students.
Instructor Credentials: As the Chief Krav Maga Instructor, Joseph’s credentials speak volumes about his dedication to empowering others. With certifications such as Special Operations Krav Maga Instructor (S.O.K.M.) and Special Operations Combative Program Instructor (S.O.C.P.), Joseph possesses the specialized knowledge required to train individuals in high-stress environments. Moreover, his expertise in firearms training, including Sig Sauer Master Instructor certifications for pistol, rifle, and shotgun, ensures a comprehensive approach to self-defense education.
Empowering the Community: At Pooler Krav Maga, Joseph is not only a Chief Instructor but also a mentor, leader, and advocate for personal growth and empowerment. Through his dynamic teaching style, unwavering commitment, and genuine passion for helping others, Joseph inspires students to push beyond their limits and develop the skills necessary to protect themselves and their loved ones. Under his guidance, Pooler Krav Maga serves as a beacon of strength, resilience, and community spirit.
Joseph Bouchard’s dedication to excellence, coupled with his extensive credentials and unwavering commitment to empowering others, makes him an invaluable asset to Pooler Krav Maga and a true leader in the world of self-defense instruction.
- Martial Arts Background:
- Krav Maga: 2nd Dan Blackbelt under the American Krav Maga Federation (AKMF)
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Purple Belt under Sergio Machado
- Instructorship:
- Chief Force Instructor (American Krav Maga Federation)
- Special Operations Krav Maga Instructor (S.O.K.M.)
- Special Operations Combative Program Instructor (S.O.C.P.)
- Kalah Combat Systems Instructor
- Various Krav Maga instructor certifications (Knife, Pistol, etc.)
- Firearms Training:
- Sig Sauer Master Pistol, Rifle, and Shotgun Instructor
- Sig Sauer Active Shooter Response Instructor
- Assault Readiness Course Instructor (A.R.C)
- Jerry Barnhardt Tactical Shooting Technologies Course
Jay Walker
Jay Walker is the head instructor at our America’s Best Simi Valley location.
Jay has devoted most of his life to training, instructing and competing in various forms of martial arts. His interest started at a young age, but he was unable to start his training until he was 16 due to asthma and other childhood illnesses. Jay was fortunate enough to use his passion as a way to work his way through college training local, national and world champion fighters, both amateur and professional. “Everyone has a reason to join a martial art program whether it is for self protection, confidence, fitness or a drive to compete. It is up to the instructor to help each student to reach their full potential and goals.”
Before relocating to the Los Angeles area, Jay became interested in Krav Maga and wanted to find an organization and school in his area that matches his beliefs, drive, and passion. After extensive research he found Burbank Krav Maga and after one class, he was hooked. Jay has never looked back, and now passes on his passion to students at America’s Best.
John Veverka
Mr.John Veverka is Citadel Krav
During his Marine Corps service in 2002, he started martial arts under the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP). During his time with 1st Battalion 5th Marines, he was part of a Boat Raid company and Maritime Special Purpose Force platoon. John has multiple deployments in Operation Iraqi Freedom (I/II/III), Operation Enduring Freedom, and other operations from 2003-2006.
In 2012, he started his Krav Maga journey under Mr. Chris Crouch and it was through his influence that he wanted to become an instructor. Mr. Veverka has had the privilege to train with Grand Master Danny Hazan, founder and Chief Instructor of Authentic Israeli Krav Maga Academy (AIKMA). To preserve the quality of education for students, he continues to train under Master Mark Cox, Master Nathan Carlen, as well as Mr. Chris Crouch.
Mr. Veverka cross trains in other martial arts, such as the Dog Brothers Martial Arts (DBMA) under Nathan “Faithful Dog” Carlen and trains with Punong Guro Marc “Crafty Dog” Denny. He has fought in Dog Brothers Gatherings, full contact weapons fighting, and received tribal affirmation to “Dog” rank. He continues his journey towards achieving the title of full Dog Brother.
Chris Crouch
Chris Crouch is an Army Brat, a Navy Vet, a husband, father, and Owner of Burbank Krav Maga. He grew up traveling around the world with his family, then joined the US Navy shortly after graduating high school where he spent 6 years with Naval Intelligence.
He moved to LA from Texas in 2004 and began training in Krav Maga one month after getting married in 2008. Chris and his wife, Patti, were Foster Parents for LA County, and adopted their three children in 2014 and 2017.
After becoming a Krav Maga Instructor he began assisting on the mat at Chatsworth Krav Maga. Eventually he opened his own school in Burbank and seeks to pass on the training and mindset that has helped shape his life.
Chris began his martial arts journey studying Seibukan Jujitsu while stationed in Monterey, CA. He earned his 1st Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga in 2014 and is currently a 3rd Degree.
Brandon Kemmer
Brandon Kemmer is the owner and chief instructor at Cutting Edge Karate & Krav Maga. He began his martial arts training when he was 6 years old at the Church at Rocky Peak. He is a 6th Dan Master Black Belt in American Tang Soo Do under Grandmaster Mark Cox and has devoted his life to training and teaching martial arts. He is also a KravMaga 2nd Dan black belt & certified instructor.
Brandon married his high school sweetheart, Nicole, after attaining his Bachelor of Science degree from DeVry University. They have 3 children and future masters – Jonah, Ryder, and Lilly. Brandon is passionate about expanding his knowledge and learning new techniques. He cares deeply about his students and loves helping students young and old better their lives and achieve greatness!
Jason Flame
Jason Flame is the Owner and Chief Instructor at Moorpark Karate & Krav Maga in Moorpark, CA. Jason started his martial arts training in 1985 with GM Dennis Ichikawa and opened his first school in 1996. Earning his first Black Belt in 1991, he is now a 7th Degree Black Belt in American Tang Soo Do and earned his Black Belt in Krav Maga in the American Krav Maga Federation under GM Mark Cox in 2020. Jason also holds Black Belt ranks in Ketsugo Ju Jitsu & Combat Hapkido. He has also served as a martial arts business consultant since 2010. Jason is an active member of his community and serves on the Board of Directors for several local organizations and community events. As an active community member, he attributes the success of his businesses to understanding the importance of giving back to those in his community.
American Drengr
Krav Maga
is owned by Joe and Sharon Fontanella and Bob and Sheryl Paiani.
As parents and grandparents living in an increasingly uncertain world, they saw the importance of knowing how to defend oneself and others as a foundational family responsibility. Our school is unique in that it was founded by 13 students, including Joe, Sharon and Bob, along with our
Chief Instructor Greg Mills. All wanted something more than was experienced in the franchised martial arts setting, and elected to license our school with AKMF as a gold- standard in a pressure and time-tested curriculum, training, and instructor certification.
The Fontanellas, along with Bob Paiani, hold 1st degree Black Belt rank in Krav Maga. Bob also holds black belt rank in Taekwondo and Karate.
Greg Mills
American Drengr Chief Force Instructor – Gregory Mills has over 30 years of experience as a martial artist and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter. He holds multiple black belt ranks, to include Krav Maga and a Masters 4th degree ranking in American Tang Soo Do.
Greg is a high energy, skilled, and charismatic instructor that has successfully managed martial arts studios in California and Virginia. His ability to use building blocks in his teaching style serves students of all ages, athletic ability, and experience. Greg continues to advance his martial arts knowledge through attendance in training, conferences and seminars to keep up with latest techniques, ensuring his instruction remains time-proven and pressure-tested. He holds bachelors and associates degrees.
Paul Davis
Undertow Martial Arts Chief Instructor – Coming soon
Gabriel Deines
Savannah Martial Arts Instructor – Coming soon