Ryan Cunningham

Ryan Cunningham — BJJ & Judo Black Belt | Self-Defense & Youth Development Specialist

Ryan Cunningham is a 2nd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Ben Baxter of the Caio Terra Association, and a certified black belt in Judo under Roy Kawaji through the 50th State Yudanshakai (USJF). With over two decades of experience coaching, competing, and instructing, Ryan brings a dynamic and practical approach to martial arts education.

He is the owner and head instructor at Performance Martial Arts Academy in Roseburg, Oregon, and the co-founder and former lead youth instructor at its Springfield location. Known for his engaging, structured teaching style, Ryan has mentored hundreds of students across all ages and skill levels.

In addition to his martial arts credentials, Ryan served as the Workplace Violence Prevention instructor at Mercy Hospital in Roseburg and is an approved educator for A.C.E., Baker, and Fossil Charter Schools—delivering custom curriculum in self-defense, discipline, and personal development.

Ryan’s coaching background also includes several years of youth and high school wrestling, giving him a well-rounded foundation in grappling-based martial arts. Whether teaching seminars on BJJ fundamentals, Judo for BJJ, self-defense, or youth coaching development, Ryan is passionate about empowering students with the skills, confidence, and mindset to succeed on and off the mats.

Available for:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Judo Seminars

  • Youth Coaching Development

  • Self-Defense & Workplace Violence Prevention Workshops

  • School & Community Outreach Programs

JUDO BLACK BELT

Under Roy Kawaji
50th State Yudanshakai

USJF Certified

BJJ BLACK BELT

Under Ben Baxter
Caio Terra Association

IBJJF Certified

  • Oregon Open 195lb Gold

  • Grappling Industries 185lb Gold

  • Subleague NoGi Elite 162lb Gold

  • Oregon Open NoGi Elite 136lb Gold

  • Grappling Industries NoGi 145lb Gold

  • Ground Warrior 154lb Gold

  • Oregon Open 141lb Gold

  • IBJJF SF Open 141lb Gold

  • IBJJF Seattle Open 141lb Gold

Black Belt Accomplisments

Previous Instruction Locations

  • Caio Terra Academy HQ

  • Otomi Martial Arts

  • Cleber Jiu Jitsu Academy

  • Performance Martial Arts

  • Portland Judo

  • CTA Hillsboro

  • Combat Club Arizona

  • Cauliflower Ear Family Academy

  • Mercy Medical Center

  • Baker Charter School

  • Winston Middle School