MEET OUR FANTASTIC INSTRUCTORS

Professor Paul Walsh - 5th DAN Founder & Chief Instructor

With over 38 years of experience in martial arts and physical disciplines, Paul Walsh is more

than just an instructor; he is a mentor, community leader, and life coach dedicated to helping

students reach their full potential.

Paul’s journey began nearly four decades ago! In this time he has studied Wado Ryu Karate,

Shotokan Karate, Goju Ryu Karate, Freestyle Kickboxing, Taekwondo, Jiu-jitsu, Open Hand

Street Self Defence, Weapons Defence, Pressure Points, Joint Manipulation, Conflict Resolution

& Breakaway Techniques. Paul is a 5TH DAN Black Belt qualified in Kickboxing, Karate & Taekwondo and was awarded his Instructor qualification in 2006 after a lengthy training process. He has since completed his Level 1 coaching qualification, First Aid qualifications including Children & Infant training. He is fully trained in child protection, safeguarding & he holds a clean Enhanced Criminal Record Check.

Paul's passion is helping others reach their full potential in all areas of their lives. He spent many years working & volunteering for various charity & youth organisations, including running a variety of youth clubs & projects throughout the Nuneaton & Bedworth areas. During this time he undertook a huge amount of training enabling him to better serve & engage all who crossed his path. His targeted work with Warwickshire's youths has really had a positive impact on the local community & has addressed issues such as anti-social behaviour, underage drinking & drug use, teenage pregnancy, sexual heath, quitting smoking, healthy lifestyles, bullying and crime to name but a few.

Master Lauren Walsh – 4th DAN Head Instructor

Lauren Walsh has lived an active, movement driven life from a very young age. Growing up immersed in a wide range of sports including gymnastics, dance, horse riding, and many more she developed exceptional flexibility, fitness, core strength, coordination, and mental focus. These foundations would later prove essential in shaping her into a highly accomplished martial artist and instructor.

In her late teens, Lauren turned her focus fully toward martial arts. Thanks to her strong athletic background and disciplined mindset, her skills developed at an astonishing rate. Recognising her potential early on, her instructors encouraged her to pursue teaching, and in 2006 Lauren proudly achieved her Instructor Status.

Lauren embodies the balance of nurturing mother and resilient warrior. This strength shines through not only in her personal life, but also in her students. She has helped countless individuals, children, adults, and those in vulnerable situations discover confidence, self-belief, and inner strength. Her teaching philosophy centres on harmony between mind and body, believing true growth comes from balance, awareness, and self-respect. Her warm, friendly, and encouraging nature ensures that new students feel welcome, supported, and confident, while always having fun and being challenged.

Lauren Smith - 2nd Dan Instructor

I have proudly been part of the Pitbull MMA family since its inception in August 2011. My journey began as a committed student, and shortly after I started assisting as an instructor. After years of dedication and support on the mats, I earned my black belt in July 2016. That experience laid the foundation for my transition into a fully qualified instructor, where I now share my passion for martial arts with students of all ages and skill levels. I also continue to develop my own skills and knowledge and was proud to be awarded my 2nd degree blackbelt in 2023.

With a strong background in gymnastics and a naturally active lifestyle, I like to bring energy, precision, and creativity to every class. I strive to ensure all students feel welcome and that Pitbull MMA is seen as an inclusive and supportive environment. My aim is to help students develop strong technique, confidence, and discipline, all whilst keeping sessions engaging and enjoyable, especially for our younger members.

Beyond martial arts, I’ve built a career in Human Resources spanning over two decades, working full-time across a variety of roles. In my downtime, I love spending time with my husband Steve (also a black belt from Pitbull MMA), our dog Snoop, and staying closely connected with family. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is something I truly value.

Christine Brown - 4th Degree Kickboxing and Karate Instructor

In 2019, I joined Pitbull MMA within a few days to continue my martial arts journey & again offered to help teach where needed. Master Paul Walsh asked if I would be interested in starting a karate class at the club as that discipline was not being taught at the time. My son & I worked together to compose a progressive syllabus for interested students & the karate classes started online during the covid lockdown in May 2020. Once we were able to meet up again, I started face to face classes in June 2020 & have continued to teach karate ever since.

I also teach kickboxing when I cover for other instructors. I was invited to join the grading panel when I first joined the Pitbull team & still attend almost every kickboxing grading day. I have also been very pleased to watch my karate students progress & grade specifically in karate as a separate discipline. I was very honoured to be awarded my 4th degree black belt from Masters Paul & Lauren Walsh in October 2023 for my contributions to the club & enthusiasm in helping students in both disciplines to progress towards their own martial arts goals.

Connor Ford - 1st Dan Black Belt Instructor & No-Gi Ju-Jitsu Coach

Connor began his martial arts journey at the age of 15, originally training for self-defence. Though he admits he didn’t have any “natural ability” at the start, Connor’s determination, consistency, and eagerness to learn quickly set him apart. By showing up, working hard, and never giving up, he earned his 1st Dan Black Belt in 2017 — a true testament to his dedication and perseverance.

Since then, Connor has continued to develop his skills across multiple disciplines, expanding his knowledge through coaching in kickboxing and earning his blue belt in jiu-jitsu. He plays an active role within Pitbull MMA, helping fighters prepare for competition, cornering them during tournaments, and offering support both in and out of the ring.

Connor’s journey reflects the spirit of martial arts itself. Hard work, humility, and constant self-improvement. He remains a valued member of the team and continues to train, coach, and inspire others to push beyond their limits.

Jeff Worthington - Muay Thai Master Instructor

Jeff is a former British Army serviceman who served across the globe throughout the 1980s and 1990s. During his military career, he was introduced to Muay Thai while stationed overseas, where the art’s discipline, respect, and intensity deeply resonated with his military values. What began as a form of conditioning and combat training soon evolved into a lifelong passion and pursuit of mastery.

Drawing on the determination and structure forged in the Army, Jeff committed himself fully to the study of Muay Thai. Over the years, he trained extensively blending traditional techniques with the mental resilience and tactical awareness honed through military service. His dedication led him to achieve the esteemed Khan Level 11 of 13, marking him as a Muay Thai Master Instructor.

Today, Jeff continues to teach and promote the authentic spirit of Muay Thai, emphasizing discipline, respect, and continuous growth. His approach unites the best of both worlds, the precision of a soldier and the heart of a martial artist, inspiring students to develop strength, focus, and confidence both in training and in life.

Declan Arber - 1st Dan Instructor & Amateur MMA Fighter

Declan Arber began his martial arts journey at just 10 years old after his parents encouraged him to “give it a go” at Pitbull MMA. What started as a way to build confidence quickly grew into a lifelong passion and career. Through years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, Declan earned his 1st Degree Black Belt at Pitbull MMA! A testament not to natural talent, but to relentless hard work and commitment.

He firmly believes his success has been learned, not gifted. Now competing in amateur MMA across the UK, Declan continues to test himself at the highest level while constantly refining his skills.

Alongside competing, he also delivers one-to-one coaching sessions in his spare time, helping others develop their technique, confidence, and mindset while further growing his own coaching expertise. Twelve years on from his first session at Pitbull MMA, Declan remains fully committed to the sport, still learning, still competing, and still driven by the same passion that started it all.

Tyler Walsh - 2nd Dan Instructor

I am a dedicated martial artist and athlete with over 14 years of experience in kickboxing, having begun my training at the age of two in 2011. My lifelong commitment to the sport led me to achieve my black belt on July 21, 2022, marking a major milestone in my competitive and technical development.

I have competed extensively, earning podium placements in over 40 competitions, which reflects my consistency, discipline, and high-level performance across multiple formats. Alongside kickboxing, I have pursued advanced athletic development through calisthenics for the past seven months, building elite strength, mobility, and body control.

I began teaching martial arts at just nine years old and earned my official instructor qualifications in 2025 at the age of 16, demonstrating both technical expertise and leadership ability.

Passionate about growth and excellence, I strive to inspire confidence, resilience, and discipline in every student I train.

Declan Arber - 1st Dan Instructor & Amateur MMA Fighter

Declan Arber began his martial arts journey at just 10 years old after his parents encouraged him to “give it a go” at Pitbull MMA. What started as a way to build confidence quickly grew into a lifelong passion and career. Through years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, Declan earned his 1st Degree Black Belt at Pitbull MMA! A testament not to natural talent, but to relentless hard work and commitment.

He firmly believes his success has been learned, not gifted. Now competing in amateur MMA across the UK, Declan continues to test himself at the highest level while constantly refining his skills.

Alongside competing, he also delivers one-to-one coaching sessions in his spare time, helping others develop their technique, confidence, and mindset while further growing his own coaching expertise. Twelve years on from his first session at Pitbull MMA, Declan remains fully committed to the sport, still learning, still competing, and still driven by the same passion that started it all.

OUR OTHER AMAZING INSTRUCTORS & REFEREES

Sophie Burns - 1st Dan Trainee Instructor

Kai Walsh - 1st Dan Trainee Instructor

Paul Dewis - Trainee Instrcutor

Helen Burns - Trainee Referee