Editor’s Note: Tyson Kilbey Jiu-Jitsu is already building a vibrant, inclusive community where individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds can train, grow and achieve their goals. The academy has welcomed everyone from skilled Jiu-Jitsu black belts to NFL legend Tamba Hali, as well as local media interested in the new Kansas City location.
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Proudly first responder friendly, Kilbey invites drop-ins from around the world — whether you’re visiting the area or looking for a place to train while traveling. “At Tyson Kilbey Jiu-Jitsu, we’re committed to offering top-tier instruction rooted in the principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with a welcoming environment for all,” Kilbey said.
To learn more about their instructors, class schedules and training philosophy, visit www.tysonkilbeyjiujitsu.com.
When a subject latches onto an officer’s outer vest, the encounter can escalate quickly — putting weapon security and officer safety at immediate risk. With more agencies issuing this style of uniform, learning how to counter a vest grab has become an essential skill.
In this episode, Tyson Kilbey and Joe Sullivan head to NFL great Tamba Hali’s private training room. There, Hali — a former Kansas City Chiefs defensive end — and world-class jiu-jitsu black belt David Smarr break down a straightforward, jiu-jitsu–based response designed to neutralize the grab, protect weapons and manage distance effectively.
Both Hali and Smarr, who hold Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belts and volunteer their time training first responders, stress the importance of mechanics that keep the tactic simple under stress. Beyond the technique itself, they share hard-earned lessons about consistency in training, working effectively as part of a team, building trust and seeking out mentors to reach peak performance.
For Kilbey and Sullivan, training alongside athletes and martial artists of this caliber underscores the value of blending mindset with mechanics. And with more special guests and topics ahead, the Guardians of the Ground series continues to expand the defensive options officers can draw upon when it matters most.
Catch up on all Guardians of the Ground episodes
Here are some must-have training tools from Tyson Kilbey that complement the tactics in this episode:
- 8-pack of non-slip athletic tape
- Breathable mouthguard
- MMA-style gloves
- Mat disinfectant, cleaner and deodorizer
- Bonus: “The 32 Principles: Harnessing the Power of Jiu-Jitsu to Succeed in Business, Relationships and Life” by Rener Gracie
