Jake Nickoson

Professor Jake is a Middletown native, born and raised, and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 15 years of experience training and coaching. He earned his black belt under UFC veteran Jorge Gurgel in 2018 and founded Artisan in 2023 to focus on bringing affordable high level Jiu Jitsu to Middletown.
 
Jake is passionate about coaching both kids and adults, leading both of our youth and adult programs. He has extensive experience leading the kid’s program for Jorge Gurgel Mixed Martial Arts as well as a background in Muay ThaI kickboxing and Judo. His students have been able to capture numerous individual and team titles at both the local and national level reflecting his commitment to developing skilled, disciplined, and successful athletes on and off the mat.

Jake believes in well rounded grappling, focusing on both traditional Jiu Jitsu techniques and newer concepts as the sport evolves. He is a keen student of the art and has a passion for continued learning and study. Jake brings a down to earth and personable touch in his teaching style. He seeks to grow high level grapplers and change people’s lives through Jiu Jitsu.

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