Conversations with Menamy Mitanes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Menamy Mitanes.

Hi Menamy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I came to Los Angeles at 18, not knowing the language or anyone. A few years later, I discovered Jeet Kune Do—the martial art Bruce Lee created. Back home, I only knew Bruce Lee as a movie star, but in LA I became the second Japanese person to study under Dan Inosanto, Bruce’s top protégé and a pioneer in martial arts education. Their philosophy and teachings awakened something deep inside me.

Those early years were tough. With no car, no money, and sometimes no food, I often felt I was losing hope and purpose—but I kept going. JKD eventually led me to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Rickson Gracie, one of the greatest fighters in the sport’s history. As the smallest in class, I was constantly up against bigger, stronger opponents. Survival became my focus, but deep down I knew there had to be a smarter way to overcome size and strength.

That turning point came when I met Patrick Strong, one of Bruce Lee’s first-generation students. His science-driven, principle-oriented approach to martial arts opened my eyes to entirely new perspectives. Eventually, it led me to Systema, the Russian martial art that taught me not just how to fight, but how not to fight and how to be – to move freely, without fear, and express my true self.

Today, I run Systema Los Angeles and serve as a permanent guest instructor at Academy Beverly Hills, teaching both BJJ and Systema alongside world-renowned martial artists Rigan Machado and Martin Wheeler. I travel internationally for seminars, including training military organizations, and I’ve published a book in Japan with an English edition in progress.

What drives me is a deep belief that each of us is one-of-a-kind in this vast world. There is no one like me, and there is no one like you. I am called to teach something only I can teach. There is another side of Martial arts that is not about winning or losing, belts or tournaments—it’s about discovering who you truly are and building a character that transcends limitations.

LA is diverse, competitive, and full of noise. But when we strip that away, heart connects to heart—and that’s where real power is found—not in forcing or overpowering others with muscles, but in understanding and connection. That’s what I teach through martial arts. If my story inspires someone to take that leap, it would be great.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all—it’s been anything but smooth.

When I first came to LA, I didn’t speak English, didn’t know the culture, and didn’t know a single person. Making friends and fitting in was difficult, and I went through a lot of frustration, self-doubt, and rejection.
At one point, I was living outside, sneaking into buildings for a better place to sleep. My marriage failed, I was broke, buried in credit card debt, and collectors called daily.

In martial arts, I was the smallest in the gym, wherever I went, constantly smashed by bigger opponents. Injuries piled on, including what was considered a career-ending one. But I refused to quit, finding ways to adapt my training and keep moving forward.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I teach martial arts, specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Systema, the Russian martial art. My approach blends science, principles, and movement concepts learned from some of the greatest martial artists—Dan Inosanto, Rickson Gracie, Rigan Machado, Patrick Strong, and Martin Wheeler—into a method that works for anyone, regardless of size or age.

I help people unlock their potential by removing the blocks that hold them back. In martial arts, everything is revealed—your true character, weaknesses, and limitations. I learn from my students as much as they learn from me, and together we work to break free from self-limiting beliefs.

I’m known for focusing on movement, adaptability, and self-discovery—teaching people how to move without tension, how to respond without panic, and how to access their internal power.

I’m proud of teaching principles that work not just in martial arts but also in life, without chasing belts, medals, or collecting techniques

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I was a bit of a prankster—pulling innocent pranks at school, making people laugh, and driving teachers crazy enough to get smacked, which I’d just endure and keep smiling. Some of my happiest memories were going into the woods with my dad to catch beetles during vacations at a mountain resort, or heading to summer fireworks and shrine festivals to buy tiny Amazon turtles and enjoy delicious street food.

I also remember being bullied by a rich kid and then saved by my hero friend. That moment stuck with me—I wanted to be like him, someone who stands up for others.

Pricing:

• $170

Contact Info:

• Website: https://SystemaLosAngeles.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menamybjjprinciple/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SystemaLA/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/empowered-martial-artist/
• Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/quantumsystema/