Underdog Mixed Martial Arts

Underdog Mixed Martial Arts delivers martial arts training and combat sports education at 23 Andover Drive in West Hartford, Connecticut. The training facility conducts weekly morning, afternoon, and evening classes serving students and families throughout West Hartford and Hartford. The academy was founded by owner Sifu Russell Leak, Head MMA Coach and Striking Instructor who initiated training in Jeet Kune Do under Master Instructor Chris Smith. The grappling curriculum is directed by Head Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor Professor Diogo "Moreno" Araujo, supported by women BJJ coach Stephanie Fox, a black belt under Araujo, alongside Head Wrestling Coach Kia Gholampour, Head Strength Coach John Durrett, and youth coach Johnny Lopez. Class offerings encompass Adult Gi BJJ, Adult No-Gi BJJ, drilling sessions, kickboxing, and wrestling. Youth and teen divisions include Puppy BJJ-Gi for ages 6 to 9, Pitbull BJJ-Gi for ages 9 to 12, Teen BJJ-Gi for ages 13 to 16, and open mat sessions.