Robbie Paraha

Black Belt under Neil Owen - Founder Infinity Martial Arts

Founder of Ako Martial Arts Sandgate

I started kickboxing in New Zealand when I was 18 where quickly fell in love with the martial art, the required technique and constantly being pushed to my limits. I took this passion to Australia in 2011 where I joined an MMA Gym and began training MMA. MMA quickly led me to Jiu Jitsu after being easily controlled and subdued by someone half my size.

Martial arts helped me improve my overall health and drop my weight from 115kg to 84kg within my first 18 months. After 2 years of training, I left my monotonous job to chase my passion.

I have competed all over Australia and New Zealand at all levels amateur and professional across multiple combat sports including MMA, Kick Boxing, Boxing, Combat Jiu Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Every time I was faced with adversity and unique challenges on the mats I’d learn, adapt, and overcome. I love the physical, mental, and emotional challenges as well as the lessons Jiu Jitsu provides on a daily basis. Jiu Jitsu has taught me resilience and has improved my confidence to overcome any and all adversity.

After living and breathing Jiu Jitsu I ultimately achieved my black belt in 2016 at 26 years old. I was awarded my black belt from Neil Owen my Head Instructor after 4.5 years of training and remain an active competitor and a sponsored Hyperfly athlete and ambassador.