Master Kobi Krav Maga (MKKM) is revolutionizing self-defense training in the United States. With its roots deeply embedded in the South American Krav Maga Federation, MKKM has brought a unique and practical approach to self-defense training that sets it apart from competitors.

The Israeli Self-Defense Technique

Krav Maga is a simple, fast and objective technique, originally designed as an exclusive secret weapon of the Israel Defense Forces, then followed by global military and security elite forces, such as the CIA, FBI, GIGN and ICE, and only in the late twentieth century released to the general public.

Unlike traditional martial arts, Krav Maga has no competitions, and incorporates only useful techniques to handle objective everyday threats, while making itself accessible to all, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level.

Master Kobi Krav Maga

In 2023, after being a decades-long direct student of Grand Master Kobi Lichtenstein – former Israeli combatant, anti-terror specialist and one of Krav Maga’s prominent living authorities – Black Belt Professor Victor Vieira came to the United States and instituted MKKM’s first training center in Texas, bringing with him international expertise.

From his Master’s lessons, a faithful follower of Imi Lichtenfeld – the creator of Krav Maga – along with his values and method, Vieira took it upon himself to shape the way Krav Maga is taught in America, offering unique didactics, focusing not just on combat, but enabling individuals to truly defend themselves first in real-world situations.

While some other self-defense programs may choose to begin with direct sparring skills, MKKM asserts its emphasis on coherent and gradual practical training for real-life situations, evolving from zero knowledge to a minimal number of striking and self-defense techniques prior to engaging in simulated combat. This approach is particularly beneficial to those who seek true effectiveness – this school’s priority – in addition to an entertaining workout.

Though MKKM is relatively new to the U.S., it is far from a novice in the field of self-defense. Evolved from the South American Krav Maga Federation, it is an established and respected entity within the Krav Maga community. The organization has a strong international presence, with training centers in seven countries, and was responsible for Imi Lichtenfeld’s centennial celebrations in 2012, as well as a large self-defense open air self-defense class.

MKKM’s tradition and global footprint ensure both that its methodologies are constantly evolving and that they never lose the original Krav Maga intent: to save lives.

New Locations in Texas

Since its launch in the U.S. in 2023, MKKM has expanded its training locations in Texas. Currently, it operates in two locations in Houston:

• Quality Life Fitness Gym (River Oaks): The first MKKM training center in the U.S., located in the upscale River Oaks area, this center offers comprehensive self-defense classes in a state-of-the-art fitness facility for both children and adults.
• Rising Fitness Gym (Katy): The newest addition to the MKKM family, this center serves West Houston and provides the same high-quality training in a more suburban setting.

Both centers offer a range of classes tailored to different skill levels, from beginners looking to improve their self-defense skills to more experienced individuals who want to refine their techniques.

The organization has ambitious plans to open more training centers across the country. With its track record in other countries, particularly in South America and Europe, MKKM is poised to make a significant impact on the U.S. self-defense market.

Real-World Training for All

One of the most appealing aspects of Krav Maga is that it has different modules designed for numerous types of audiences. The training is not just for athletes, soldiers, or law enforcement officers under special seminars and private training. It is also for civilians who, at conventional training centers, get to learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The focus on real-world scenarios means that students are trained to defend themselves in environments they are likely to encounter. From learning how to avoid dangerous situations to mastering techniques for handling multiple attackers, Krav Maga covers all aspects of armed or disarmed self-defense.

Future in the U.S.

As MKKM continues to expand its footprint worldwide, the organization remains committed to its core mission: teaching practical, effective self-defense to people from all walks of life. With its unique approach and focus on real-life scenarios, it aims to be positioned as a leading name also in the U.S. self-defense industry.

The expansion in Texas is only the beginning. As more Americans become aware of the importance of self-defense training, MKKM is ready to meet the demand with its methodologies and expert instructors. According to Professor Victor Vieira, the organization’s growth plans include opening additional training centers in key states, though always offering in-person group classes and continuing to preserve Imi Lichtenfeld’s legacy.

Learn Krav Maga

There is nothing more empowering than to be able to walk and live confidently in each one’s own skin. Krav Maga is a technique that brings that mission with it, so that no person ever has to go through violence again without standing a chance for themselves. That is what the Israeli self-defense technique is supposed to be.

Published by: Martin De Juan