Here is an in depth introduction to each of our instructors!
Dr. Brian Duncan: Mastering the Fusion of Karate and Jiujitsu
Meet Dr. Brian Duncan, a martial arts veteran with three decades of experience. Holding a 5th-degree black belt in SGC Karate & Kickboxing, a 2nd-degree black belt in Koei-Kan Karate, and a black belt in Wing Chun, Brian brings a unique blend of striking and grappling expertise to Duncan MMA. Not only does he hold a blue belt in BJJ, but he is also a multi-time “Grand Champion” in the Michigan karate circuit.
Beyond the mats, Dr. Brian Duncan has extensive security experience, bringing practical insights to his martial arts instruction. As the head of Duncan MMA, Brian is dedicated to providing authentic and effective training. Married to Kailey with seven children, all of whom train, Brian is deeply rooted in the martial arts community. A board-certified acupuncturist with a practice in Kingsport, TN, Brian combines his knowledge of medicine, nutrition, and anatomy to guide students towards their goals in self-defense and martial arts.
Tom Clerici: Elevating BJJ Excellence
Introducing Tom Clerici, a dedicated BJJ brown belt under the tutelage of Professors Steven Bongiorno, Jay Regalbuto, and Chris Massie. Tom’s jiu-jitsu journey began at Osan Air Base in South Korea, where he trained as a young officer in the United States Air Force. Now, as a brown belt, Tom continues to enrich the Duncan MMA community with his expertise.
Tom specializes in teaching both gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu programs, emphasizing fundamental perfection and high-percentage techniques suitable for all skill levels. With a coaching style focused on self-defense, competition, physical health, and mental well-being, Tom’s classes empower students to confidently navigate their martial arts journey. As a veteran himself, Tom takes pride in working with military personnel, veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders. Tom is a married father of three, residing in Kingsport.
Kelly Cliffords: No-Gi BJJ and Wrestling Dynamo
Meet Kelly Cliffords, a dynamic force in the world of martial arts, specializing in No-Gi BJJ and wrestling at Duncan MMA. With over 13 years of experience in folk-style wrestling, Kelly has been coached by retired MMA fighter and wrestling champion, Jordan Johnson. He was also a training partner of UFC Lightweight fighter, Grant Dawson.
Kelly is a 3-time Wrestling Conference Champion, a District Champion, and a Nebraska State Runner-Up. Beyond his achievements, he has years of experience as a wrestling officiator and coach. Kelly utilizes his wrestling expertise, combined with a deep understanding of biology and nutrition, to help athletes enhance their grappling skills, improve their diet, and gain a competitive advantage.
Married to his wife Gabriella, Kelly is a family man with two daughters. His commitment to Duncan MMA extends beyond the mat, enriching the Kingsport community with his passion for No-Gi BJJ, wrestling, and the holistic development of aspiring athletes.
Conclusion: Join Duncan MMA in Kingsport for One Month of Free Training!
Now that you’ve met our exceptional BJJ instructors, we invite you to join Duncan MMA in Kingsport, Tennessee. Experience the fusion of karate and jiujitsu with Dr. Brian Duncan, elevate your BJJ excellence with Tom Clerici, or dive into the world of No-Gi BJJ and wrestling with Kelly Cliffords. As a special offer, get one month of free training when you purchase a uniform. Enroll today and become part of the thriving martial arts community at Duncan MMA!