Where Character Meets Confidence
Founded by Mr. Dave, a highly respected martial artist, History General in the National Sport Karate Museum, and inductee in the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame, our academy is grounded in decades of experience, tradition, and passion. Mr. Dave is joined by Mr. Sage, a martial artist with over 20 years of training experience and more than 3 years of teaching expertise as a lead instructor. Together, Mr. Dave and Mr. Sage are not only masters of their craft, but also dedicated teachers, mentors, and community leaders. They inspire students of all ages to grow in confidence, discipline, and skill as they strive to reach their full potential.
Our academy welcomes students as young as 3 years old, offering age-specific programs that grow with each child’s developmental stage. From our Mighty Embers to our Teen/Adult programs for preschoolers to our Junior Phoenix and Teen & Adult programs, we provide a structured, supportive environment for everyone—whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned martial artist.
Our curriculum blends the best of multiple disciplines, including Krav Maga, Taekwondo, Karate, and Ground Defense. This multi-style approach ensures that students not only learn a wide variety of techniques, but also gain real-world self-defense skills that are practical, effective, and adaptable to different situations.
But we don’t just teach martial arts. We teach life skills. Each month, our students (ages 3-12) receive age- appropriate, character-building homework based on core martial arts principles. These lessons are reinforced during our unique mat chats, known as the F.I.R.E. P.I.T. (Focus, Integrity, Respect, Excellence – Personal Improvement Time), helping students connect what they learn in class with their behavior at home, in school, and in the community.
At Fighting Phoenix, we understand that every student is on a personal journey. That’s why we celebrate progress, encourage effort, and foster a growth mindset. Whether your goal is to improve fitness, gain confidence, learn self-defense, or develop focus and leadership skills, our instructors are committed to helping you succeed in every area of life.
Join us—and Rise stronger after every fall—like a phoenix, your strength is forged in fire.
Who we Are And why You Should Train Here
Since we’ve opened, we’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals.
We believe martial arts is for everyone- regardless of age, gender, special needs, or experience level. Our programs are designed to teach practical, real-world self-defense while helping students build confidence, discipline, and the mindset to thrive both on and off the mat.
Master Dave
Owner/Operator
Introducing Fighting Phoenix Martial Arts Academy
A Lifetime of Dedication
Beyond martial arts, he spent 20 years as a Deputy with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as a Field Training Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Specialist, and Member of the Honor Guard, receiving numerous commendations for his service.
Recognized Excellence
Inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2023)
Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (2024)
Mike Stone Alumni Award (2024)
5th Degree Black Belt (Master) in Tae Kwon Do
National Sport Karate Museum Inductee (2015)
The Future of Martial Arts Training
At Fighting Phoenix Martial Arts Academy, students will experience expert instruction in self-defense, discipline, and competition training. With a deep passion for mentoring, Master Dave is committed to helping others reach their full potential, both on and off the mat.
Join the Legacy – Train with a Champion
Experience world-class martial arts training with an instructor who has lived the art, fought through adversity, and emerged stronger than ever.
Fighting Phoenix Martial Arts Academy – Blaze your own path through traditional martial arts values.
Sensei Sage
Lead Instructor
Sensei Sage began his martial arts journey at just 4 years old in Wado Ryu Karate and earned his Black Belt at 15 under the guidance of his father. His training expanded to include Okinawan Kenpo, Muay Thai, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Krav Maga, giving him a well-rounded background in both traditional and modern self-defense techniques.
Sensei Sage has expertise teaching; Sport Karate, traditional Karate, Okinawan Self Defense, Master Braymen Krav Maga System, Shinto Yoshin Kai Japanese Jujitsu and Sport Taekwondo
At 20 years old, he joined Premier Martial Arts in Bonita Springs, FL, where he quickly became a respected instructor. Over the next three years as Lead Instructor, he gained the admiration of students ranging from young children to adults, making a lasting impact on the community.
Now, Fighting Phoenix Martial Arts Academy is proud to have Sensei Sage as a key part of our team. His diverse expertise, teaching experience, and dedication make him an invaluable instructor and mentor. Join us at Fighting Phoenix and train with Sensei Sage – where passion meets excellence!