About Maverick Combatives
Maverick Combatives was created to help people build practical self-protection skills in a professional, friendly and supportive environment.
Who Russell is, how Maverick started and training philosophy
Maverick Combatives is led by Russell Sharpe, a 2nd-degree black belt in Krav Maga under Ronin Krav Maga and a certified Level One Urban Combatives instructor. Growing up in some of Plymouth’s toughest neighbourhoods, Russell experienced violence and intimidation first-hand, giving him a real understanding of how confrontations develop and how to prepare for them. He has since trained with respected instructors across the UK and Europe, and his background also includes Muay Thai, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA and Filipino Martial Arts (Kali/Arnis). Russell built Maverick Combatives around one simple goal: preparing ordinary people to deal with real aggression and real-world confrontation, not choreographed demonstrations.
- 2nd-degree black belt under Ronin Krav Maga
- Level One Urban Combatives instructor
- DBS checked
- First aid trained
- Safeguarding and SENCO certified
- Beginners welcome
- Parking available
- Suitable from age 11+
Teaching approach
The approach at Maverick Combatives is practical over flashy. Students learn to recognise pre-attack indicators, manage fear, de-escalate conflict where possible and respond decisively when there's no alternative. Lessons are regularly updated with realistic drills and modern tactics, helping students build confidence, resilience and the practical ability to protect themselves and the people around them.
Safety and standards
Training is delivered with safety, safeguarding and professionalism in mind. Russell holds current DBS checks, first aid training, safeguarding certification and SENCO qualification, giving parents and students confidence in the standard of care behind every class.
Maverick Combatives is Proudly Affiliated with
Art Martial
ARTMARTIAL is a brand created by martial artists, for martial artists, celebrating the culture and camaraderie for enthusiasts of all levels.
SAFE
SAFE is a leader in self-defence training, empowering people of all ages with practical skills for personal safety that can be accessed online from anywhere.
BMABA
The British Martial Arts & Boxing Association (BMABA) is an award-winning trade body for independent martial arts clubs, representing more than 100,000 UK martial artists.
BCA
Founded in 1993 by self-defence experts Peter Consterdine and Geoff Thompson, the BCA focuses on practical self-defence training.
Ronin Krav Maga
Ronin Krav Maga is the largest Krav Maga organisation in the South West, offering expert-led training across Devon and Cornwall.
Urban Combatives
Urban Combatives is an internationally recognised organisation focused on practical, real-world self-defence.