Our Team
The Chapel Hill Gracie Jiu Jitsu team pride ourselves on our consistent movement toward growth - in both our personal and professional lives.
MAZI HEYDARY - Owner/Head Instructor
Mazi Heydary is a lifelong student of martial arts. Mazi has been training in various forms, including Okinawan Kempo Karate and Tae Kwon Do since 1975. In 1996, his focus shifted to developing an understanding of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Mazi began training under Greg Thompson, Team R.O.C founder and the first Royce Gracie black belt in North Carolina. After decades of dedication, he earned his black belt from Ultimate Fighting Championship Hall of Fame member, Royce Gracie in 2011. He is currently a 4th degree black belt.
Mazi brings a rare passion for martial arts into his teaching methods. With his technical proficiency and detail-centric instruction, Mazi pushes his students to achievements they never thought possible. He leads by example, so don't be surprised to see Mazi on the assault bike!

LIV JOHNSONFORD
Kickboxing Instructor
About Me
Liv found her passion for fitness through the practice of yoga, delving into the intricate connections between mental, emotional, and physical well-being. With six years of experience teaching kickboxing classes, Liv brings a dynamic and quirky approach to coaching. A member of the EDS/hypermobile community, she draws upon her diverse experiences to inspire others on their fitness journey.
As a coach, Liv emphasizes helping individuals feel stronger and more empowered within the unique and incredible bodies they have!

JEFF HOWARD
Jiu Jitsu Instructor
About Me
Jeff is a black belt in jiu jitsu. He has studied with Jake and Mazi for years, so it only made sense for him to join the team! A real family-man, you'll enjoy his light-hearted, joke-filled, and informative style of teaching.
You can catch class with Jeff in the early morning.

ASHLEY JOHNSON
Personal Trainer
About Me
Ashley is a certified personal trainer from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. She brings a wealth of experience to our team, having played soccer at Radford University and for the Puerto Rican National Team. Additionally, Ashley has a background in semi-professional soccer in Indiana and professional soccer in Puerto Rico. Notably, she served in the Air Force for 4 years as a Satellite Technician. We are thrilled to have Ashley on board, bringing her diverse skill set and passion for fitness to enhance our training programs.
Ashley was inspired to pursue a career in personal training after witnessing the health challenges faced by some of her family members due to inactivity. Motivated by the desire to make a positive impact, her goal is to assist others in recognizing the benefits of exercise. By sharing her own experiences and knowledge, Ashley aims to empower individuals to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle, with the hope of preventing the difficulties she observed in her family members.

GABE SORREL
Kickboxing Instructor
About Me
Gabe's lifelong passion for sports and movement has shaped a rich and diverse background. His expertise spans various martial arts disciplines, including wrestling, Kendo, and Taekwondo, showcasing his commitment to a well-rounded skill set. In addition, Gabe thrives in the realm of extreme sports, engaging in activities such as rock climbing, motorcycle racing, and white-water kayaking. This wealth of experience infuses his classes and private lessons with an eclectic approach and contagious enthusiasm, making each session a dynamic and engaging experience for all participants.

ALEX BANKS
Muay Thai Instructor
About Me
Banks has competed in Judo, Jiu Jitsu, and UFC. His specialty and passion is Muay Thai. Having competed in Thailand for years in both Muay Thai and boxing, Banks brings a knowledgeable, unique, and energetic teaching style to his classes.

CARLETON
Jiu Jitsu Instructor
About Me
As a former U.S. Army paratrooper and correctional officer, Carleton has been in or around dynamic physical environments for more than 20 years. He began his journey with Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in 2007 and has been tirelessly seeking to improve himself and his jiu-jitsu ever since. Carleton focuses his training and teaching on realistic techniques that can be used on and off the mat to defend himself in an actual self defense situation. A father of three young boys who also train jiu jitsu, Carleton understands that the Gracie Lifestyle can be utilized both on and off the mat. He applies what he can to the everyday aspects of family life, as well as training. Carleton earned his black belt from Mazi in 2022.
