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Master stephen Nichols
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Head Instructor
Master Stephen Nichols – 6th Dan
Master Stephen Nichols is a 6th-degree black belt in Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu and a lifelong martial artist with more than twenty years of experience teaching and training students in practical self-defense and traditional martial arts. Known for his direct and practical teaching style, Master Nichols focuses on developing skills that prepare students to handle real-world conflict while maintaining the discipline and traditions that define the martial arts.
Over the course of his career, Master Nichols has trained and competed throughout the Midwest, earning rankings in both the Missouri and Arkansas fighting circuits. His dedication to the martial arts community has earned him numerous honors, including Instructor of the Year in 2022 and induction into the Kenpo International Hall of Fame in 2023.
Master Nichols also holds a black belt diploma in JuJitsu, further reflecting his deep study of grappling, joint manipulation, and close-range combat principles that complement his Kenpo training.
He has spent more than two decades performing and teaching with the Tracy’s Karate of Southwest Missouri Demonstration Team, helping to preserve and promote the traditions of Kenpo Karate while mentoring the next generation of martial artists.
Today, he serves as the head instructor of Black Sheep Martial Arts and the American Close Quarters Battle Institute, where he teaches a range of disciplines including Tracy Kenpo, Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, close-quarters combat, and practical weapons defense. His instruction emphasizes functional technique, situational awareness, and the mindset required to survive dangerous encounters.
In addition to his primary training in Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu, Master Nichols has broadened his martial arts foundation through study in Aikido, Iaido, Kang Duk Wan, and Chuan Fa, giving him a diverse perspective on combat principles and movement.
Master Nichols is widely respected for his ability to break down complex techniques into clear, practical instruction while motivating students to push beyond their perceived limits. His mission is simple: to ensure that every student who trains under him leaves with greater confidence, stronger skills, and the ability to protect themselves and the people they care about.