COACHES

Coach Gustavo Dantas at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Andy Balmore Prudencio

Owner/ Head Instructor

Andy Balmore began his martial arts journey at the age of 16, inspired by the early days of the UFC. He found a local MMA gym and quickly immersed himself in training. After high school, he pursued a career in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu, earning success in the cage before retiring from fighting in 2008 to focus on his growing family and learning the ins and outs of running a business.

His time away from competition was short-lived. Soon after, he returned to the mats and discovered a deep passion for Eddie Bravo’s unique style of Jiu-Jitsu. This led to him opening the first 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu academy in Orange County.

Beyond coaching, Andy served as the Event Coordinator and Stage Manager for the Eddie Bravo Invitational, working closely with Eddie Bravo, Victor Davila, and some of the most elite athletes in Jiu-Jitsu. Drawing from that experience, he partnered with Coach Isaac to launch his own tournament series, Stay Grounded Championships.

As a coach, Andy is committed to developing his students not only in Jiu-Jitsu but also in life. He believes coaching goes far beyond teaching techniques—it’s about inspiring growth, building resilience, and fostering a mindful, health-conscious lifestyle. For Andy, the real reward is seeing progress on the mats translate into positive change off the mats, creating a ripple effect that impacts others.

10TH PLANET ORANGE

Coach Gustavo Dantas at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Jon Cho

Black Belt

Jon Cho is a 10th Planet Orange County Black Belt. He is a lifelong student of the martial arts and began his formal study of jiu-jitsu in 2008. He trained primarily in the gi at his first academy but would gradually develop a preference for no-gi. Eventually, he found a new home at 10th Planet, where he could devote a singular focus to training without the gi. Due to his roots, Jon retains a stylistic affinity for traditional pressure passing and positional control, but he has also fully immersed himself in the practice of the various techniques pioneered within the 10th planet system.

He was chosen to head the fundamentals program at 10th Planet Orange where he instructs five nights a week. In addition to instructing jiu-jitsu, Jon holds a master’s degree in philosophy from San Francisco State University and works as a special ed teacher.

Coach Gustavo Dantas at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Mike John

Started training wrestling in the 7th grade because he had way too much energy (according to his mother). During high school, his football coach made the entire team do Jiu-Jitsu in the Gi and he was hooked. He was the only one who kept going back day after day. Eventually he found MMA and amassed an amateur record of 9-4. He considers himself a Hybrid in Jiu-Jitsu. He enjoys upper body as well as lower body submissions. He’s an active competitor and looks to inspire others around to jump in on competition.

10TH PLANET FULLERTON

Coach Gustavo Dantas at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Isaac Cordova

Isaac Cordova began his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2009, teaching himself alongside his brother using Eddie Bravo’s textbook Mastering the Rubber Guard. Captivated by the sport, he spent a year drilling and sparring at home before stepping into a local MMA gym for formal training. By the age of 15, he had already competed twice before fulfilling another lifelong goal—joining the military. From 2013 to 2017, Isaac served as a Reconnaissance Marine, developing the discipline, specialized skills, and elite-level mindset that now shape his sharp, effective, and creative approach to the training room. Even while serving, he would visit a Jiu-Jitsu gym whenever possible, keeping his passion for the sport alive and knowing he would one day return full-time.

After completing his service, Isaac joined 10th Planet Orange County in 2017 and began instructing at 10th Planet Fullerton in early 2021. Over the years, he has built an impressive competitive record, becoming a 3x Combat Jiu-Jitsu veteran, EBI Finalist, EBI Qualifier winner, 2x ADCC Open Gold Medalist, IBJJF Pans Silver Medalist, 5x WSOJJ cash prize tournament champion, and reaching the round of 16 at two ADCC Trials. In 2023, he earned his black belt from Andy Balmore. Isaac now sets his sights on medaling at the prestigious ADCC Championships.

As a coach, Isaac’s philosophy is simple: “I don’t mind how good you are. I care how much better you get.” He focuses on progress as the ultimate goal, creating a fun, energetic, and welcoming environment where all students feel supported and challenged to grow—both on and off the mats.

Coach Gustavo Dantas at GD Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Daniel Rodgers

Daniel Rodgers is a renowned martial artist and coach, born and raised in Terre Haute, Indiana. Growing up in the heartland of America, Daniel developed a strong work ethic and passion for discipline, which would serve him well in his future endeavors.

Daniel's journey in martial arts began with a fascination for the technical aspects of combat sports. He discovered his true calling as a coach, sharing his expertise with others. At the age of 25, Daniel joined 10th Planet Fullerton, a prestigious Jiu-Jitsu academy, where he would become a respected coach.

Through dedication and perseverance, Daniel achieved the esteemed rank of brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu. His impressive skillset and teaching abilities have inspired countless students, earning him recognition within the martial arts community.

Beyond the mat, Daniel is an avid gamer, enjoying immersive virtual worlds and strategic gameplay. This hobby allows him to relax and recharge, maintaining a balance between his demanding coaching schedule and personal life.

As Daniel continues to coach, his influence extends beyond the martial arts realm, inspiring others through his commitment, expertise, and passion.

PHONE

Orange: 714-477-4553

Fullerton: 714-477-4553

ADDRESS

Orange: 1832 N Tustin St, Orange, CA 92865

Fullerton: 601 S Euclid St, Fullerton, CA 92832

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