Instructors

Adam Benayoun began his martial arts journey in New York City as a teenager and has been coached by the world's best Jiu Jitsu players since his very first class. Adam received his blue and purple belts under 9-time black belt World Champion Lucas Lepri, his brown belt under 4X ADCC world champion Marcelo Garcia and is presently a second-degree black belt under UFC standout and American-born Jiu Jitsu legend, Ryan Hall.

As a black belt, Adam has established himself as both a world-class competitor at the international level and a highly regarded instructor. His passion for teaching has led to the development of multiple instructional releases and an online learning platform that have helped students around the world improve their understanding of Jiu Jitsu. A former top-ranked professional grappler, he has earned victories over some of the most accomplished athletes in the sport. Adam's varied experience and passion for helping others make him a fantastic guide for beginner and advanced students alike. Apart from teaching and competing in Jiu Jitsu, Adam has become a valuable resource as an MMA corner having coached bouts in the UFC, ONE FC, FURY FC and more

Ryan is an accomplished competitor, co-owner of District Tattoo Co. and Adam Benayoun's first black belt. Ryan started training in 2010 and has worked with a number of the top gyms in the DMV area. Around Black Cat, he has become a staple for his approachable demeanor, technical instruction and creativity. When he isn't training or tattooing you can find Ryan spending time with his wife Caitlin, his 2 corgi's and his black cat named Mortimer.

Rory Spiegel began his Jiu Jitsu journey in 2004. By 2008, he had earned his brown belt under the legendary John Danaher and became one of the founding members of the Marcelo Garcia Academy in New York City. After taking time away from the mats to focus on his residency and fellowship, Rory returned to training in 2018 with renewed passion and received his black belt from Ryan Hall in 2019.

Known for his sloth-like reflexes and unhurried style, Rory has developed a reputation for turning every roll into a test of patience—often leaving opponents wondering whether he’s setting up a submission or simply taking a nap.