Head Instructor
BJJ
Youth BJJ
Self-Defense Combatives
Frass Azab is the founder of Warriors Academy KC and the creator of Gladius Combatives & Jiu-Jitsu, a practical self-defense system built on real-world application, pressure-tested techniques, and no-nonsense execution.
With over 25 years of teaching experience and decades immersed in martial arts, Frass is the lead instructor of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program, overseeing both adult and youth divisions, while leading the academy’s self-defense combatives training.
He holds a degree in Criminology/Criminal Justice from Park University and has a professional background in forensic psychology and child behavioral work. His experience includes specialized roles managing violent patients in psychiatric care. Frass also brings extensive real-world security experience, including work as a bodyguard for high-profile individuals and as a nightclub security supervisor in Miami and Kansas City.
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Gladius Combatives & Jiu-Jitsu
Developed by Frass Azab, Gladius Combatives & Jiu-Jitsu is a hybrid system designed for real-world self-defense. It blends the efficiency of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the control of Judo, the aggression and situational awareness of Krav Maga, and the pressure and adaptability of Catch Wrestling.
The system focuses on:
- Real-world scenarios over sport-based limitations
- Fast, decisive control and neutralization
- Adaptability under stress and chaos
- Building confidence through pressure-tested training
Gladius is not built for points—it’s built for survival, control, and dominance in unpredictable environments. This is the system taught within the self-defense program at Warriors Academy KC.
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Martial Arts & Professional Training
Frass began his martial arts journey at the age of 8 in the art of Judo, laying the foundation for a lifelong path in combat sports and self-defense. He is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under Master Leonardo Peçanha, a Black Rank in Krav Maga under Nicholas Hughes, and a Brown Belt in Judo.
His training includes Muay Thai, Filipino Martial Arts, and Catch Wrestling and Savate-style kickboxing, influenced by Eric Paulson and Ben Jones. He also competed in Muay Thai, adding real striking experience to his overall combat system.
He is a 2012 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu National Champion (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and continues to evolve through both competition and instruction.
Frass is also NRA-certified in Pistol and Defensive Tactical Shooting, reinforcing his comprehensive approach to personal protection.
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Awards & Recognition
Frass was named Self-Defense Instructor of the Year (2018) by the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fameand was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2023, recognizing his long-standing impact and dedication to the martial arts community.
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Teaching, Instruction & Programs
Frass has taught and conducted seminars both nationally and internationally, including training programs in London, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and for Military Police at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
He also developed a specialized self-defense program integrating canine handlers and real-world protection scenarios, in collaboration with Mike Jones of Primal Canine based in San Jose, California. This program focuses on practical application of self-defense alongside trained canines in high-pressure situations.
Frass has also been actively involved in coaching and cornering fighters in MMA competition, as well as coaching athletes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, bringing real fight and competition experience into his instruction.
Frass is also a featured instructor on BJJ Fanatics, where his instructional content explores the roots of combatives through Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga.
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Certifications
Frass holds instructor certifications in multiple respected systems:
- Warriors Krav Maga Instructor (under Nicholas Hughes)
- CSW Instructor (under Eric Paulson)
- KIMBATIVES Instructor (under Kelly McCann)
- Force Necessary Stick & Knife Combat Instructor (under Hock Hochheim)
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Community Impact
Frass has dedicated years to working with youth, women’s self-defense programs, and individuals with special needs. He spent eight years working in a children’s psychiatric hospital, supporting youth with behavioral and developmental challenges.
In 2024, he expanded his impact by leading youth Jiu-Jitsu initiatives focused on discipline, confidence, and anti-bullying.
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Pro Wrestling, Media & Personal Training
In addition to martial arts, Frass is the co-owner of Central States Wrestling (CSW), where he contributes to talent development and creative direction within the industry. He also serves as an on-screen manager, leading the faction known as “The Tribe.”
He has also traveled internationally alongside his son in the professional wrestling world, where his son competed on a major platform during one of the first professional wrestling events in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (2023). His son currently serves in the United States Air Force.
Frass also offers private coaching in self-defense, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and fitness.
Outside of training, he has appeared in independent film projects and music videos, including work with Grammy Award-winning artist Jelly Roll and Tech N9ne.
