Our Instructors & Staff Members

Our Instructors have spent many years devoted to training in the art of Karate and other martial arts. They have attained a certain level of expertise to qualify as teachers and also mentors.

Through extensive training, testing, certification and tournament level competition, our staff has attained mastery in this martial art. They enjoy sharing their skill and passing it on to their students. Art lifts the human spirit. We hope to stimulate the love for Martial Arts in all our students so that they may share with others the great rewards this dojo can provide. Here are a few of Makoto Karate Academy's instructors and other staff members:

Ed Verso  (Sensei/Head Instructor)  Sensei ED Verso is the chief instructor at the Makoto Karate Academy. His training is based on the Japan Karate Association (JKA). Sensei Ed’s goal is to continue the traditional training from which he came from. Traditional karate seems to be getting lost in today’s society. He brings to the academy the traditions of strict karate discipline and honor, along with his experience in Japanese martial arts. He began his martial art training at the age of 7 years old. He has trained for over 30 years. He is dedicated to helping people develop their full potential and capabilities in a positive nurturing environment. Building strength of character is a main factor of training. His goal is to give individuals a sense of accomplishment, a feeling of self-esteem and instill inner self-discipline. His unique view of martial arts, along with the strict dedication creates a great atmosphere for students to train in. He holds belts is various styles and systems and has competed on the national level. 4th Dan Makoto Juku/Founder of the Verso Fight System 3rd Dan Combat Karate 3rd Dan Seishin Ryu Judo 3rd Dan Seishin Ryu Jiu Jitsu 2nd Dan Shotokan Karate 1st Dan Pankration Advanced Kickboxing 3-1 Amateur MMA Licensed Corner Man(CSAC)

Toney Raven  (Hanshi) 10th Dan in Judo and Ju Jitsu, Hanshi came on board at MKA to help with Judo. Hanshi Raven started martial arts training in 1942 after the beginning Of World War II, and has not stopped. He has studied in Japan & Throughout the USA. He has competed USA, Japan, Canada and in Armed Forces Judo. Took a Bronze medal 1993 Senior Nationals Masters. He won both the gold and silver medals in the 1998/1999 World Masters Judo Tournaments held in Canada. Toney has trained with and taught with such greats as Tai Watanabi, Gene LeBell, Bob Wall, Gokor Chivichyan, Leo White, Benny "the Jet" Urquidez, Greg Fernandez, O Sensei Phil Porter, Al Thomas, Shihan Ken Penland, and Master John Denora. Hanshi Raven and The Great Sonny Hughes are shot some wonderful martial arts training films for Toraki martial arts clothing and equipment Co. in Canada. Hanshi Raven is a Master Examiner in Judo, Ju-Jitsu, and all his other arts. He loves teaching at, clinics and seminars. Head of Makoto Juku/MKA Combat- Judo Division Head of AJJIF Judo Division 10 Dan Ju-Jitsu 10 Dan Judo 10 Dan Daito Ryu Aiki Jiu-Jitsu USA

Ryota Yagyu  (Sempai) Sempai Ryota has trained in many Japanese Martial Arts ranging from Karate, Judo, Sumo, Kendo and Aikido to name a few. His insight to the Japanese culture brings an incredible spice and flavor to his teaching. His passion for working with children and his manner of teaching always leave a smile on the kids faces.

Jasson Wilcox  (Coach) Jasson Wilcox has numerous credentials and accomplishments. We will be updating this section shortly to detail them.

For more information about the MKA Combat staff or training programs, please contact us at (818)999-3680 or by clicking here.