Lawrence (Larry) Yap

Larry Yap has competed in amateur boxing (AAU and PAL) and Muay Thai (under Kru Takkratoke) since age 10. His wide-ranging fight experiences include all-service military Muay Thai bouts (Nakorn Si Thammarat) and U.S.-Thai friendship competitions (Lumpini and City Hall, Saraburi, Thailand).

Larry wrestled at both the high school and collegiate levels (Missouri). In 1989, he began his Gracie Jiu-jitsu training under Relson Gracie and Romolo Barros in the garage in Hawaii Kai and at the University of Hawaii, eventually earning his purple belt under Joao Morais.

In 1992, Larry began competing in no-gi, sambo, and MMA competitions (California, Las Vegas, Florida, Hawaii, UAE, Brazil, Thailand, Korea and Japan).Larry retired from competition in 2000. He is now the Jiu-jitsu instructor at Norfolk Karate Academy under William Odom.

Shano,

Last night I finally received my “Gracie” Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt from the Gracie Academy. Rener Gracie tied my belt on. Here’s a picture with Mr. Bill Odom (left), Me center (yes I’m a lot heavier) and Rener Gracie on the right. I hope all is well with you?

Take care and Aloha,

Lawrence “Larry” Yap

Norfolk Karate Academy and

Certified Gracie Jiu Jitsu Training Center

814-A W 45th St

Norfolk, VA 23508

(757) 623-8997

Larry is my former instructor, workout partner, and long-time friend. He's also now a Gracie Certified Brown Belt and instructor under Rorion, Ryron and Rener Gracie (teaching at Bill Odom’s Norfolk Karate Academy and certified Gracie Jiu Jitsu Training Center).

But don't be fooled...this man would easily whoop many a BJJ black belt!

He was also a Lt.Col. and tactical instructor in the Army Rangers.

Larry gets his Black Belt...

Rorion Gracie giving the Black Belt certificate to Lawrence Yap

Helio Grace w. a very young Larry Yap

This is the first move Larry taught me...