Zachary Cope
Zachary Cope is a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Derek Kaivani of Axion BJJ. He began training in 2010 and has been successful at many competitions throughout the state of Michigan, including NAGA, EFG, and Michigan Open events. Zach is passionate about teaching others the mechanics of Jiu Jitsu and empowering his students to be confident and efficient on and off the mats. Ronin Jiu Jitsu has been operating since 2014 and has welcomed visitors from all over the country.
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Derek Kaivani
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Derek Kaivani is the founder of Axion and was awarded his Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2013 under world-renowned Instructor Romero “Jacare” Cavalcanti, and 6-time World Champion Lucas Lepri. Derek also trained extensively (received his purple and brown belts) under 8-time World Champion and Hall of Famer Rubens Charles Maciel, aka “Cobrinha." Derek is an internationally decorated athlete with extensive coaching experience, and he has worked on the business side of the sport as a representative to athletes, an academy owner, and facilitator for Self-Defense and Bully Prevention Workshops. He has an MBA from the University of Chicago. Derek spends much of his Summer, Up North at his home on Douglas Lake.
Competition Footage of Derek at Brown Belt
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Pan Championship
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2008 Gold Medal (purple belt)
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2009 Gold Medal (purple belt)
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2010 Gold Medal (brown belt)
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2013 Gold Medal (brown belt)
Brazilian Nationals
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2010 Gold Medal (brown belt)
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2010 Bronze Medal (brown belt, Absolute)
Atlanta Open
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2013 Bronze Medal (black belt)
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View Derek's BJJ Profile on Beltchecker
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Dominic Bragg
Dominic Bragg received his Black Belt in BJJ from Derek Kaivani of Axion Jiu Jitsu in 2023. Dominic has 40 years combined experience in a variety of martial arts. He is a 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and has also practiced Aikido, Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Tang Soo Do, Boxing, Xingyiquan, Baguazhan, and Tai Chi.​