Meet the Instructors: Expert Coaching at Creighton MMA

Paul Creighton – Head Instructor - 4th Degree Black Belt

Paul Creighton began studying martial arts at the age of five. He started with wrestling, and wrestled competitively throughout high school and college. As a competitive wrestler in high school and college, Creighton compiled a 134-16-1 (win-loss-tie) record and was a Junior Olympic Gold Medalist. While obtaining his Bachelors degree in health science at SUNY Brockport, Paul began goshin jutsu karate, Japanese ju-jitsu, and judo where he went on to obtain a Black Belt in each of these disciplines.

Learn more about Paul Creighton

Josh Bowie – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Josh originally began his Jiu-Jitsu training with Paul in 1998 and was Paul’s first student. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice at Georgia State University before returning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training when Paul opened his academy. Josh has achieved the rank of 2nd-degree Black Belt and thrives in teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Creighton Mixed Martial Arts Academy. Known for his instructional skills, Josh has a knack for simplifying techniques to ensure that students of all ranks can grasp them effectively.

Bray Deavours – 3rd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Bray has always had a passion for grappling arts, starting from his competitive wrestling days in high school. After completing his Bachelor's Degree at James Madison University and his Masters in Business at the University of Georgia, Bray sought to continue his training and competing journey. In May 2003, he found Creighton MMA Academy and became one of Paul's first students, eventually earning the rank of 3rd-degree Black Belt. Bray is a Silver Medalist in the no-gi Masters/Seniors Pan American Games and a Casca Grossa and NAGA champion. His rare combination of being a great competitor and instructor makes him an invaluable asset to the martial arts community.

Justin Parsons – 3rd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Justin has an extensive background in grappling, with 12 years of experience in wrestling before discovering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has trained exclusively under Paul and currently holds a 3rd-degree Black Belt, showcasing his technical prowess on the mat. Justin is a dedicated student of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, investing extra time in studying the art and paying close attention to detail. As an instructor at Creighton MMA, Justin takes pleasure in sharing his technical knowledge with students at the academy.

Isaac Eberle – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ – Black Belt CMMA

Isaac has evolved into a well-rounded fighter since joining Creighton Mixed Martial Arts Academy, blending his stand-up striking and grappling techniques seamlessly. His technical, calm, and patient approach has led to success in both grappling and MMA events. Isaac applies these attributes as he teaches our kids' program, MMA striking, and Fitness Kickboxing classes at Creighton MMA Academy.

As an undefeated amateur MMA competitor, Isaac has transitioned to a successful professional career, maintaining an undefeated record. He holds a 2nd-degree Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul and a Black belt in Creighton’s Mixed Martial Arts ranking system. Isaac is notably the first student to receive a Black Belt in Paul's inner academy MMA ranking system.

Tyler Driskell – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Tyler Driskell joined us full-time after graduating from Georgia College and State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Community Health and Human Services. During college, he trained and taught Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Frank Mullis at the Milledgeville Academy of Mixed Martial Arts. Tyler holds a 2nd-degree black belt under Paul and has an extensive competition record, including titles such as IBJJF (No-Gi) World Champion 2017 and Open weight IBJJF (No-Gi) World Champion 2017. Known for his high energy and passion for teaching, Tyler is dedicated to helping others improve their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills at Creighton MMA. Tyler also heads up our kids' classes, Fitness Kickboxing and Total Body Fitness classes as well.

Chris Jones – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ - Yellow Belt CMMA

Chris Jones came to Creighton MMA & Fitness with a wrestling background and was a natural in the gentle art of jiu-jitsu since day one. Chris loves to compete, and has been very successful in many international competitions. In IBJJF Masters competitions Chris has compelled a very strong resume with a gold medal at the 2017 IBJJF (Gi) World Championships, 2017 gold medal at the IBJJF (No-Gi) World Championships, 2017 gold at the (Gi) Pan American Championships, 2017 gold at the (No-Gi) Pan American Championships, a 2-time silver medalist at the IBJJF World Championships and over 10 gold medals at the Atlanta Open. Chris is a black belt under Paul Creighton in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a yellow belt in our MMA ranking system. In addition to this, Chris has also lost a total of 55 pounds since his first day at Creighton MMA & Fitness. You can find Chris teaching and assisting in our BJJ classes each week.

Chris is also a Marine where he joined straight out of high school and is an Iraq combat action veteran. We thank you, and all the military, for your service Chris.

Chris Hughes – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Chris Hughes started his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2001, delving into competition in 2003 and competing in tournaments across Georgia and some International IBJJF competitions. He achieved his Black Belt under Paul in 2016 and is currently a first degree black belt. Chris graduated from Eastern Illinois University in Chicago with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.

Alex Jutis – 2nd Degree Black Belt BJJ

Alex Jutis is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul Creighton and is highly active in competitions worldwide. He has achieved remarkable success, including being a No-Gi IBJJF Masters World Champion, 3-time No-Gi Pan American Masters Champion, Pan American Masters Silver Medalist, and Masters World Championships Bronze Medalist. Alex also boasts numerous medals from various IBJJF Open tournaments across the country. He occasionally leads and instructs our 6:30 am BJJ classes on Tuesday mornings and is the owner of a successful chain of chiropractic offices in the Atlanta area, having earned his Bachelor's degree in History from Binghamton University in New York and his Chiropractic degree from Life University in Georgia.

Orlando Correa – Black Belt BJJ – Blue Belt CMMA

Orlando has been an active member of our BJJ and MMA programs for many years, excelling in both disciplines and competing in local, national and international BJJ tournaments. He holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a blue belt in our MMA system. Orlando, originally from Georgia and a Collins Hill High School alum, is known for his patience, humility, and passion in teaching basic MMA striking skills to new students.

Randy Toussaint – Black Belt BJJ – Green Belt CMMA

Randy embarked on his martial arts journey with us 5 years ago, demonstrating unwavering dedication and consistency in his training. Achieving the rank of black belt in our BJJ program and green belt in our inner academy MMA system, Randy's technical prowess is matched only by his passion for assisting others. Hailing from Georgia and a graduate of Central Gwinnett High School, Randy's combination of skills and qualities makes him a perfect fit for assisting in our kids' BJJ/MMA programs and teaching our intro to BJJ classes.

Anya Frolov – Black Belt BJJ - Blue Belt CMMA

Anya holds the distinction of being the first female black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ranked by Paul. Additionally, she is a blue belt in our MMA Striking program and is highly regarded for her technical prowess in both Jiu-Jitsu and striking. Anya's role in assisting our kids' classes has been exceptional and aligns perfectly with our academy's ethos.

Noah Wilson – Black Belt BJJ

Noah Wilson is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Paul Creighton and a valued member of our instructional team. With a strong wrestling background and natural athleticism, Noah took to BJJ quickly and has become a formidable presence on the mat. His technical precision, combined with a friendly and approachable demeanor, makes him a favorite among students of all levels.

Outside the academy, Noah serves as a firefighter for the Johns Creek Fire Department. He is also a former No-Gi World Champion, earning the title as a blue belt—just one example of his dedication and competitive spirit. We’re proud to have Noah as part of the Creighton MMA family.

Pete Acquaviva – Black Belt BJJ

Pete Acquaviva is one of our dedicated 6:30am Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors. A proud Navy veteran, Pete now works as a construction project manager while continuing to pursue his passion for Jiu-Jitsu. He began his journey at our academy weighing 323 pounds and has since lost 135 pounds through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a complete shift in his health habits. Pete is also an accomplished competitor, earning silver and bronze medals at the prestigious IBJJF Pan American Championships. His transformation and commitment to the art make him an inspiring presence on the mat.

Jared Frampton – Brown Belt BJJ

Jared joined our academy in 2015 and has since developed a strong passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His dedication and love for the art are reflected in his technique and commitment to learning. With his daughters Teagan and Amelia also training in our kids' program, Jared eagerly jumped at the opportunity to assist in our youth classes. Bringing experience from coaching youth softball in Gwinnett County, Jared's teaching skills enhance our kids' learning experience. We are delighted to have him as part of the CMMA team, where he holds a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul Creighton.

Jane Dobias – Brown Belt BJJ

Jane, originally from New York and a former student at a Renzo Gracie Academy, and has recently earned a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul. With her two children also enrolled in our kids' program and her strong technical knowledge, Jane is a perfect fit to assist in our kids' classes, enhancing their learning experience.

Mark Steinberg – Brown Belt BJJ

Mark is a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with over 7.5 years of training experience. He is a valued member of our kids' instructor team, known for his calm demeanor and passion for teaching the next generation. Mark graduated from Towson University in Baltimore, Maryland with a Bachelor's degree in Finance.

Anastasia Panasenko – Purple Belt BJJ - Blue Belt CMMA

Anastasia is a Purple Belt in our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program and a blue belt in our inner academy MMA ranking system. She is one of the first friendly faces you’ll see when entering Creighton MMA & Fitness Academy, always greeting visitors with a warm smile at the front desk. Beyond her front desk role, Anastasia actively assists in our kids' classes, Total Body Fitness sessions, and Fitness Kickboxing classes, helping create a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.

Samuel Perez – Kids Instructor – Purple Belt BJJ

Samuel Perez has been a valuable part of our kids’ instructor team, bringing both dedication and a personal connection to the program — especially with his daughter Penelope training alongside the group. Since beginning his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2017, Samuel has shown unwavering commitment to his training and has earned the rank of purple belt. His calm, friendly demeanor and supportive presence make him an ideal fit for working with our youngest students.

Ryan Kimbro – Blue Belt BJJ – Blue Belt CMMA

Ryan is a Blue Belt in both our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program and our inner academy MMA ranking system, and also holds a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. He is one of our MMA Striking instructors, bringing real fight experience to his classes with five MMA fights and one Muay Thai fight. Ryan is also an active Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor. He graduated from Georgia Gwinnett College with a Bachelor's degree in Digital Media.

Will Lynn – Blue Belt BJJ - Blue Belt CMMA

Will is a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a blue belt in Creighton MMA's inner academy MMA ranking system. He assists in instructing the Introductory class in the MMA Striking program and is preparing to compete in his first MMA bout.

Blake Harvey – Blue Belt BJJ

Blake, a blue belt under Paul in our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program, is a dedicated assistant instructor in our kids' classes, consistently contributing to their growth, confidence, and technical development on the mats. His commitment and positive energy make him an invaluable part of our team, and we’re proud to have him at Creighton MMA.

James Baldwin – Blue Belt BJJ

James is a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Paul and a dedicated competitor in the sport of BJJ. He has proven to be a valuable asset in assisting with our kids' program, bringing a calm and patient demeanor that creates a positive learning environment for our young martial artists. His commitment to both teaching and competing helps inspire the next generation on and off the mats.

Katherine Panasenko – Blue Belt BJJ - Yellow Belt CMMA

Katherine is a Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a Yellow Belt in our inner academy MMA ranking system. She is an active participant in both our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Striking programs, consistently bringing a patient and kind energy to the mat. Her positive attitude and attention to detail make her a natural fit for assisting with our kids' classes. Katherine is passionate about helping young students build a strong foundation in both skills and confidence.