THE COACHING TEAM
Decades of combined experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and movement science. We prioritize technical excellence and sustainable growth for every student.
Founder & Head Instructor
Co-Founder & Instructor
Ryan Stevens
Founder & Head Instructor
- 30+ Years Therapeutic Experience
- Brown Belt in BJJ
- Certified in Spinal Biomechanics
- Expert in Functional Movement
- Founder of Fusion Academy Boulder
- Level 1 certification in PSBJJA
Ryan began his training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2006. After exploring several academies, he established himself at Fusion Academy under the guidance of Professor Eddie Edmunds in Salt Lake City, Utah. Currently a brown belt, Ryan has received all prior ranks from Professor Edmunds. He also possesses experience in Muay Thai boxing, having trained with Coach Craig Lamanna. In addition to martial arts, Ryan has an extensive background in Ashtanga Yoga, studying primarily with Richard Freeman. His expertise in functional movement was developed through studies with Paul Chek and John Gibbons, earning certification from both. Serge Gracovetsky, the creator of the Spinal Engine model of spinal biomechanics, is one of his primary mentors; Ryan has worked closely with him for many years and is uniquely certified in his work.
For over 30 years, Ryan has practiced as a bodyworker, specializing in deep therapeutic myofascial manipulation with a focus on Russian sports massage.
Upon returning to Colorado, Ryan temporarily paused his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practice to engage more deeply in the study of systems theory, biology, and human movement. His goal was to develop an integrated model for optimizing the movement system by intentionally manipulating training variables within a structured environment. This model synthesizes his expertise in functional movement, spinal biomechanics, bodywork, yoga, and breathwork, and supports the resilience of the body while engaging in grappling and striking disciplines.
Five years ago, Ryan founded Fusion Academy Boulder with a group committed to training around principles that prioritize longevity without compromising grappling effectiveness. Recently, alongside Jonathan Andrews—a purple belt under Professor Edmunds—he has opened the academy to the public.
Jonathan Andrews
Co-Founder & Instructor
- Purple Belt in BJJ
- 15+ Years Martial Arts Experience
- Specialist in Technical Leverage
- Certified in Functional Movement
- Co-Founder of Fusion Academy Boulder
- Level 1 certification in PSBJJA
Jonathan discovered Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2008 and has since dedicated himself to the art's technical intricacies and its application to human movement. Trained under Professor Eddie Edmunds at Fusion Academy, Jonathan holds the rank of purple belt and serves as a fundamental pillar of the coaching staff at Fusion Academy Boulder. With a background in competitive athletics and a deep interest in the intersection of biology and combat sports, Jonathan focuses his instruction on leverage, timing, and the efficiency of energy.
In addition to his BJJ expertise, he has extensive experience in Muay Thai and functional strength training, ensuring that his students develop a well-rounded and resilient physical foundation.
Jonathan works closely with Ryan Stevens to implement the academy's unique integrated training model, which prioritizes technical mastery and injury prevention through applied biomechanics. His commitment to the collaborative growth of the training group has been instrumental in opening the academy to the public, fostering an environment where martial arts excellence meets scientific precision.