Rebecca Tucker

Meet Mark Tucker - A Legacy of Excellence in Martial Arts 

Mark Tucker’s martial arts journey spans over four decades of relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and global impact. Starting in 1983 with Judo, Mark’s passion for combat arts deepened during his service in the Royal Marines, where he trained in both Judo and Boxing. After leaving the Marines in 1994, Mark was introduced to the transformative arts of Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Martial Arts (Kali/Eskrima/Arnis) by Bob Gilchrist, sparking a lifelong pursuit of mastery.

 

Mark’s thirst for knowledge led him to train with some of the most iconic figures in martial arts, including Guro Dan Inosanto, Paul Vunak, Rick Faye, Erik Paulson, Daniel Lonero, Yuri Nakamura, and Rick Young. These experiences not only enriched his skills but also shaped him into a versatile and highly accomplished martial artist.

 

Mark’s dedication to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) began under Sifu Rick Young, earning his blue belt from Royce Gracie in 2003 and ultimately receiving his black belt in 2012 from Professor Pedro Bessa. Today, Mark holds the rank of 3rd Degree BJJ Black Belt and is recognised as the first BJJ black belt in Cornwall. His competitive accolades include multiple podium finishes at prestigious events like the BJJ World No-Gi Championships and European Championships.

 

Beyond personal achievement, Mark has devoted his life to teaching and sharing his expertise. He has traveled the globe instructing US Forces, NZ Forces, UK Forces, UK Police, and close protection operatives in unarmed combat, demonstrating a rare combination of technical mastery and real-world application.

Mark’s Credentials

  • 3rd Degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt – under Pedro Bessa
  • Pekiti Tirsia Kali Lakan Guro Authorised Team Leader – Pekiti Tirsia Tactical Association
  • Jeet Kune Do Concepts (Level 1) – under Rick Faye
  • Full Instructor in Jeet Kune Do Concepts & Filipino Martial Arts – under Paul Vunak
  • Rapid Assault Tactics (RAT) Certified Executive Instructor – under Paul Vunak
  • Level 1 Muay Thai Kickboxing, Panantukan Boxing, Grappling Arts – under Rick Faye
  • First Aid Trained (FREC3), Full DBS Checked, and certified in Safeguarding Children and Adults

Career Highlights

   •       Cornwall’s first BJJ Black Belt and first MMA fighter

   •       Trainer to many of Europe’s Top 20 MMA fighters

   •       Lockdown Welterweight MMA Champion

   •       Competitive accolades include:

          - Silver at BJJ Worlds No-Gi (Purple)

          - Bronze at BJJ Worlds No-Gi Absolute (Purple)

          - Silver at BJJ European Championships (Brown)

          - Silver & Bronze at National Masters (Black)

   •       Veteran of Cage Rage, BAMMA & Cage Warriors New Zealand 

A Passion for Teaching 

Mark is more than an instructor; he’s an inspiring mentor dedicated to empowering students of all levels. With years of experience across diverse martial arts disciplines, Mark brings unmatched expertise and a personalised approach to training. His focus on skill development, confidence-building, and achieving individual goals ensures that every student receives the attention and guidance needed to succeed.

 

At MKG Liskeard, Mark Tucker is not just a teacher—he’s a driving force behind your transformation.