Ryan Yamada is one of the head coaches and owners at LŌKAHI . A self-described mat-addict with more than 25 years of grappling and martial arts training, Ryan finds joy in developing others and helping students find their own ‘aha!’ moments.

Early Beginnings:

As an overweight Japanese kid who liked rice, Ryan struggled with bullies while growing up on the island of Oahu. Hoping that martial arts would build strength and confidence, Ryan first put on the gi as part of an after-school Judo program. Wrestling through high school before transitioning to MMA, Ryan found that getting punched in the face was not all it was cracked up to be. After leaving Hawaii for college, Ryan stumbled upon a group of students grappling in the racquet ball courts of the Creighton fitness center, igniting a newfound curiosity for Jiu-Jitsu. Impressed by how effective practitioners appeared when dealing with larger, stronger opponents, Ryan joined 10th Planet Omaha in 2011. Drawing from their unique flow-based approach to learning and a focus on leg locks, Ryan found success as a submission artist while traveling the Midwest tournament scene. 

Ever the student, Ryan sought out other experts in the community. Under the tutelage of multiple-time IBJJF and UWW World Champion John Hansen, Ryan found a home at Axios Academy. In 2021, Ryan competed at the IBJJF No Gi World Championship in Garland, Texas. His hard work paid off and he ended the tournament without conceding a single point and receiving his Black Belt on the podium by Professor Paul Nava. The following year, Ryan went on to represent Team USA in Pontevedra, Spain where the Americans won the country’s first team gold medal finish. 

Personal:

Beyond his achievements on the competition circuit, the 'thefootlockfoodie' is still a big fan of rice and can often be found in the kitchen cooking or eating. Ryan and his family proudly call Omaha, Nebraska home. Shannon and Ryan’s daughter, Aiko, is the unofficial gym mascot and can be found greeting newcomers with her giant smile.

Fun facts:

Favorite meal: Ribeye, dry-brined and reverse-seared + a big salad

Favorite Jiu-Jitsu move: The Japanese necktie

Spirit animal: Octopus - while not physically imposing, they are clever problem-solvers