Karl
Norton.

Karl’s background in martial arts is as follows:

• 1993 Commenced full time training in Ninjutsu, under the coaching of Glen Newport in Hamilton.
• 1998 Moved to Auckland and trained under the late Sensei Michael Gent, was awarded black belt later that year.
• Was introduced to ground fighting and grappling through various guest instructors (such as John Danaher) invited to NZ by Michael Gent.
• 1999 Michael Gent invited John Will to NZ to train the Maai Hyoshi Dojos in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  Commenced regular training in BJJ to complement stand-up fighting skills and have participated in all quarterly seminars held by John since this time.
• 2003 – 2004   Awarded Blue Belt in Machado BJJ by John Will for his dedication to the system.
• 2007 Awarded Purple Belt in Machado BJJ by John Will for his commitment to furthering the Maai Hyoshi Dojo’s understanding of BJJ.
• 2008 Began teaching and coaching fulltime BJJ classes in Central Auckland
• 2011  Opened Clinch GYM – BJJ & MMA in Mangere, South Auckland
• 2016 Awarded Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt by John Will