Reality Martial Arts – RMA

Train for the real world; practical, adaptable, and proven self-defense built for real-life situations, not sport.

Program Overview

Reality Martial Arts (RMA) is a modern, real-world self-defense system designed for adults seeking practical, effective, and efficient personal protection training. Rooted in Integrated Combative Arts Training (iCAT), RMA combines techniques and concepts from MMA, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Kali, and Small Circle Jujitsu™, giving students a well-rounded and realistic approach to self-defense.

Founded by Rich Ryan and Walt Lysak Jr., two of the most respected authorities in reality-based martial arts, RMA focuses on functional skills that work in real confrontations — where there are no rules, referees, or second chances.

A key component of the program, Small Circle Jujitsu™, developed by the legendary Professor Wally Jay, emphasizes leverage, control, and precision through refined joint locks and pain compliance techniques. This system is trusted by law enforcement and self-defense professionals worldwide for its effectiveness and efficiency.

Whether you’re new to martial arts or a lifelong practitioner, RMA offers a comprehensive, adaptable, and evolving curriculum that teaches not just how to fight, but how to stay safe, aware, and in control when it matters most.

Reality-Based Training

Learn the critical difference between competitive fighting and real-world violence. RMA prepares you for unpredictable scenarios, emphasizing situational awareness, confrontation management, and survival mindset over sport-based techniques.

Integrated System

Rooted in iCAT, RMA seamlessly blends elements from MMA, Muay Thai, BJJ, Wrestling, Kali, and Small Circle Jujitsu™, creating a complete, functional, and versatile approach to self-defense.

Constantly Evolving Curriculum

The system is progressive and always adapting to modern threats, ensuring students train with current, effective, and proven methods of protection.

Adult-Focused Training

RMA is designed specifically for adults seeking practical self-defense, not competition, providing a mature, realistic environment for learning and personal growth.

What to Expect in Class

In our Reality Martial Arts (RMA) program, classes are built around developing real-world self-defense skills through practical and adaptable training. Each session begins with dynamic warm-ups and mobility drills designed to sharpen reaction time, coordination, and stress management. Students then move into scenario-based training, learning to identify and respond to potential threats through realistic simulations that emphasize de-escalation and awareness just as much as physical technique.

Technique development covers a wide range of skills drawn from MMA, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kali, and Small Circle Jujitsu™, including striking, clinch control, takedown defense, and precision joint manipulation. These techniques are reinforced through controlled pressure-testing drills that build composure and effectiveness under stress. Beyond physical training, RMA emphasizes the mental and tactical components of self-defense — situational awareness, decision-making, and understanding the legal and moral aspects of confrontation. Each class ensures that students not only develop confidence in their abilities but also cultivate the mindset necessary to handle real-world encounters safely and effectively.

Class Info

Class Length: 60 minutes
Age Group: 14+ years old
Skill Level: All levels welcome

Class Schedule

Thursday 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM

Why Choose Defensive Edge

Expert coaching from seasoned professionals

Welcoming, disciplined, and motivating environment

Real-world skill development and lasting fitness

A community built on respect, growth, and results

BJJ Instructors

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Brandon Montella – Boxing Head Coach

Brandon Montella is a former U.S. Marine who has always pushed himself to new limits, both physically and mentally. During his time in the Marine Corps, he rose quickly through the ranks, earning the title of Sergeant in under three years. His experience instilled discipline, resilience, and the belief that “every goal has a way,” values that have guided him ever since.

After leaving the military, Brandon pursued a successful corporate career but felt called to serve others through fitness and challenge himself once again. At the age of 31, he became an ACE-certified personal trainer and took up boxing, proving his philosophy by winning three tournaments, including the New England Golden Gloves, within his first year of training. He went on to compete professionally, retiring undefeated with a 9-0 record and 8 knockouts.

Beyond competition, Brandon has dedicated himself to coaching, running a boxing gym with his wife for over a decade while training athletes of all levels, from charity fighters to Golden Gloves champions to professionals competing on major promotions. He also finds passion in obstacle course racing, ultra running, and mentoring athletes and community members alike through their toughest challenges.

Brandon is a committed husband, father, and leader in his community. He is the Executive Director of Mission Ready, a nonprofit supporting youth and veterans, and continues to live by his motto: “Together we are limitless.”