With over 27 years of training and teaching experience, Ranieri is one of the most experienced competitors, coaches, and teachers in the world.  He has trained all over the world with several coaches including Mario Sukata (who gave Ranieri his black belt in 2005) and the legendary Carlson Gracie and Helio Soneca who he has trained under since 2007.  He trained, coached, and taught in Brazil, UK, and/or Orlando before moving to Atlanta to teach in 2007.  He opened his own academy in Atlanta in 2013.

He has many international titles as a competitor, including:

• 2x World Masters Champion
• 2X Pan American Champion
• 5X International Open Champion
• US NoGi National Champion

His experience competing and teaching all over the world opened his eyes to the universal value that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can bring to individuals – both on and off the mats.  His passion is in teaching and showing people of all ages and abilities how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has the power to transform lives and help you be your best self.

Thomas has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2008 and he received his black belt from Ranieri in 2013.  

He has been an active competitor winning multiple tournaments at every belt level from white to black including the 2016 Atlanta Open champion at black belt (Heavyweight/Masters division).

He has been teaching since 2012 and has successfully coached many students to competition titles at Pans Gi & No-Gi and  Worlds Masters. 

Most importantly, Thomas knows that the primary values of BJJ come from reaching individual goals than competition, and he enjoys helping people improve their lives and accomplish their goals.