About Jiu-Jitsu395

Our Philosophy

Led by Bret Russell, our mission is to provide the highest caliber of Jiu-Jitsu instruction while fostering a culture of respect, humility, and continuous learning. We believe Jiu-Jitsu is not just about techniques on the mat – it's about developing skills and values that translate to everyday life. Our students are encouraged to uphold the principles of integrity, perseverance, and good sportsmanship both within and beyond the academy.

Bret Russel

With over two decades of experience, Bret began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2002 under Ken Gabrielson, one of the first 12 Americans to earn a BJJ black belt. Transitioning to train with Mauricio "Tinguinha" Mariano, Bret advanced through every belt under his guidance and is now a second-degree black belt.

A seasoned competitor, Bret has participated in top-level tournaments, amateur, and professional MMA fights, and has been teaching BJJ since earning a blue belt. Known for their unique ability to make techniques accessible, they’ve established and grown successful programs in Louisiana, Orange County, and Northern California, with their latest academy thriving in Bishop, CA.

Their goal is to create a welcoming, family-friendly environment that fosters personal growth, community, and the transformative benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Passionate about providing top-notch training, they aim to expand the Bishop academy to better serve the growing interest in the art.

  • NOLAN FERGUSON

    is a 3-stripe blue belt with over four years of BJJ experience, plus training in wrestling, boxing, and Muay Thai. A civil engineer for Mammoth Water District and a parent of three, they bring patience, positivity, and a love of teaching to every class. Off the mats, they enjoy hiking and skiing.

  • SHANE MCNULTY

    is a dedicated 3-stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu who has been training since October 2019. Passionate about sharing the art, Shane began assisting with kids' classes just a month into training and has been teaching regularly since January 2021. As a husband and father of three, all of whom have trained in BJJ, Shane understands the value of discipline, confidence, and fun in learning.

Tinguinha BJJ

Mauricio "Tinguinha" Mariano, a pioneer of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's Spider Guard, is a black belt under Carlos Gracie Jr. and has been training since the age of 11. He founded the Tinguinha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Yorba Linda, California, in 2002, where he has trained numerous successful competitors. A former Global BJJ Director for UFC Gym, Tinguinha has contributed to BJJ's global growth through seminars, instructional DVDs, and his online training platform. As co-founder of the R1NG BJJ Team, he continues to inspire and shape the BJJ community worldwide.