# Buffalo United Martial Arts > Buffalo, United States ## Overview **Name:** Buffalo United Martial Arts **Description:** Buffalo United Martial Arts (BUMA) is a premier martial arts academy located in the heart of Downtown Buffalo, New York. Since becoming a proud member of Essential BJJ under Professor JT Torres in 2021, the academy has established itself as the leading training facility in Western New York, offering world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, and more. The academy's training philosophy centers on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where students of all skill levels can thrive. BUMA offers a comprehensive range of programs including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (gi and no-gi), Muay Thai kickboxing, Mixed Martial Arts, boxing, judo, sambo, and specialized fitness classes. With classes running from early morning through evening and programs designed for both children and adults, BUMA caters to everyone from complete beginners to competitive athletes. Led by a team of highly experienced instructors including head instructor Josh Ketry (black belt under Charles Anzalone, training since 1997), the academy emphasizes technical excellence, mutual support, and continuous improvement. The coaching staff brings expertise across multiple disciplines, with specialists in BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, judo, and sambo, ensuring students receive authentic, high-quality instruction in each martial art. BUMA is known throughout the region as a "BJJ Laboratory" where students receive technically sound training in a supportive family atmosphere. **Status:** Active ## Contact Information **Address:** 359 Ganson Street Buffalo, NY, United States **Phone:** (716) 671-7197 **Email:** info@fightfamily.com **Website:** https://716bjj.com **Social Media:** - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buffalo_united_martial_arts/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/716mma ## Hours of Operation - Monday: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Tuesday: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Wednesday: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Thursday: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Friday: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM ## Instructors ### Josh Ketry - Black **Role:** Head Instructor **Bio:** Josh Ketry, a black belt under Charles Anzalone, began Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 1997 and trained with notable figures in the art. He has been instrumental in establishing authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Buffalo, NY, and serves as the head instructor at Buffalo United Martial Arts. ### Anthony Gugino **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Trained at Kin-Tora Fitness Center under Dr. Ashida, Anthony M. Grisanti, and Eric Joseph. Earned his Shodan (first-degree black belt) in Judo in 2008, competed nationally, and continues training in Judo, wrestling, and BJJ. ### Jon Kokotajlo **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Jon Kokotajlo is an American Sambo Association Affiliate who trains sambo under Chris Anderson and John Lehmann, BJJ under Gerry Disanto and Josh Ketry, and has previously trained in Muay Thai and MMA. ### Keith Forant **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Keith Forant, certified under WTBA (World Thai Boxing Association), began training in BJJ and Muay Thai in 2008. He excels in both competition and teaching, particularly in youth programs, and shares his passion for martial arts at Buffalo United. ### Larry Backlas - Black **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Larry is a BJJ black belt under Chuck Anzalone who has competed at the national level. He has contributed significantly to Buffalo Classic tournaments and is known for his technical pressure style and submission expertise. ### Michael Christopher **Role:** Instructor **Bio:** Michael Christopher was trained by Hall of Fame coach Dean Eoannou and had a 15-year amateur boxing career. He medaled in NYS Golden Gloves and now shares his extensive boxing expertise through modern coaching methods. ## Programs ### Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - All Levels **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using proper technique, leverage, and taking the fight to the ground with joint-locks and chokeholds. **Classes:** ### BJJ Fundamentals **Skill Level:** Beginner **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Beginner-friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program focusing on core techniques and foundational skills for newcomers to the art. **Classes:** ### No-Gi / Submission Wrestling **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Grappling without the traditional gi, focusing on wrestling techniques and submissions applicable to MMA and self-defense. **Classes:** ### Competition Training **Skill Level:** Advanced **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Advanced training for competitive athletes looking to prepare for BJJ tournaments and competitions. **Classes:** ### Muay Thai **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** The 'Art of Eight Limbs' - utilizing fists, elbows, knees, and shins to strike from all angles. Dynamic striking art focused on powerful attacks and clinch work. **Classes:** ### Boxing **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Traditional boxing training taught by experienced coach with 15-year amateur career and NYS Golden Gloves medals. **Classes:** ### Judo **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** adults **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Japanese martial art focusing on throws, pins, and joint locks. Emphasizes using opponent's force and momentum for leverage. **Classes:** ### Kids BJJ **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** Gi required **Description:** Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program building discipline, teamwork, and confidence in a fun, safe environment. **Classes:** ### Kids Muay Thai **Skill Level:** All Levels **Age Group:** kids **Gi Requirement:** No-Gi **Description:** Children's Muay Thai program teaching striking fundamentals while developing focus, discipline, and physical fitness. **Classes:** --- **Last Updated:** March 03, 2026 **Data Source:** BJJ.Space (https://bjj.space/gyms/united-states/new-york/buffalo/buffalo-united-martial-arts)