About Brad Hatcher
For the majority of his life, Brad Hatcher has been committed to pursuing excellence in the martial arts. He began his training in 1977, spending seven years studying Isshin-ryū karate, before reaching the rank of Black Belt. He comes from a respected lineage of teachers, having trained under Master Harold Long, Master Allen Wheeler, Master James Ogle and Master Phil Little.
Always hungry to learn more, Hatcher now holds ranks in several other styles of martial arts. He was the first Tennessean to achieve a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in 2003 after more than 9 years of study. He trained under Master Rickson Gracie for 10 years, and now trains under 8th degree black belt Luiz Palhares.
Hatcher has won more than 500 awards in karate competitions, as well as being the Tennessee Karate Circuit Champion in fighting, forms and weapons. He is known for his fighting and weapons form (bo staff) during competition.
In April 2006, he won the Pan American Jiu-Jitsu Championship in the Black Belt division. Other international wins in BJJ include:
2007 Pan American Games Silver medal
2011 Chicago International Silver Medal
2012 World Championships Silver Medal
Hatcher has won over 40 grand championships in tournament competition, many times winning both fighting and forms during the same tournament. He also won the Tennessee state championship tournament eight times and was ranked number one in the NBL in the super heavyweight fighting.
In 2007, Hatcher became of the director of the Tennessee Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation. He has instructed police, SWAT, and military service members in unarmed combat.
Hatcher continues to be active in competing in Jiu-Jitsu and karate tournaments and teaching and attending seminars. He is a state certified and ISKA referee and judge for MMA.
BELT RANKS
8th degree Master Black belt in Isshin-ryū karate
Holds the title of Kyoshi in Isshin-ryū karate
4th degree Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
1st degree Black belt in Shingitai Ju-Jitsu
1st degree Black belt in Combat Sombo
Brown belt in Judo
Brown belt in Small circle Ju-Jitsu
1st degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do
