JAKE KLIPP
Founder - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blackbelt
Jake Klipp brings a lifetime of discipline and real-world experience to his coaching. He began wrestling at just 5 years old and continued for 14 years into his college career, learning valuable lessons through both success and challenge.
After serving in the United States Marine Corps and completing a combat tour from 2004–2005, Jake returned home looking for a new way to channel his energy. In 2008, he stepped into a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class in Milwaukee and quickly found a passion that would shape the rest of his life.
Jake went 6–3 as an amateur mixed martial artist and 3–1 as a professional, bringing firsthand competitive experience into everything he teaches.
Since then, he has dedicated himself to training, competing, and coaching. At Pura Vida, Jake helps create a positive, structured environment where students can focus, grow, and build confidence. His coaching style encourages discipline, resilience, and respect—making sure students feel supported every step of the way.
Jake works with students of all levels, from beginners to competitors, and is committed to helping each individual become stronger—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
ZAK OTTOW
Co-Owner - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Blackbelt
8x UFC Welterweight veteran
Zak Ottow brings a well-rounded background in multiple martial arts disciplines, with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as his foundation and a strong passion for striking. As an active fighter, he has competed against high-level opponents and continues to evolve his game through ongoing training and experience.
Zak is committed to passing that knowledge on helping fighters and students avoid common mistakes while accelerating their development. He regularly travels to train with top teams, bringing back proven techniques and insights to Pura Vida.
Known for his open and honest coaching style, Zak works with everyone from beginners to competitive athletes. Whether your goal is to get in shape, build confidence, or pursue a fight career, he’s dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.
SOLO ACOSTA
Co-Owner - Mixed Martial Arts & Advanced Striking Coach
Director of Athlete Development
Solo Acosta began training in martial arts at just 6 years old, inspired by a childhood dream of becoming a “ninja.” From early exposure to martial arts schools and studying fight footage, to competing in traditional boxing through his teenage years, Solo built a strong foundation rooted in discipline and curiosity.
His path into Mixed Martial Arts started when UFC veteran Chico Camus invited him to join a fight team an opportunity that led him to train alongside Anthony Pettis. What began as a training session quickly evolved into a coaching role, and Solo has been developing fighters ever since.
Today, Solo oversees athlete development at Pura Vida, where he brings a unique, analytical approach to the art. He views striking as a blend of science, strategy, and problem-solving teaching students not just how to fight, but how to read, understand, and control the fight. His passion lies in developing athletes at all levels and helping build the next generation of world champions.
BENJAMIN
SCHAUER
Youth MMA Program Coach
MMA Striking Black Belt
Ben is a dedicated kickboxing instructor with a passion for helping students build confidence, discipline, and strong fundamental skills. With over a decade of experience in martial arts, Ben understands the importance of creating a fun, safe and engaging environment where students can learn and grow. His teaching style focuses on developing proper technique, playing lots of engaging (and exhausting) games, and fostering a positive mindset both on and off the mats.
Beyond coaching, Ben is an undefeated professional MMA fighter and Marine Corps veteran. Some of his pastimes include backpacking in the wilderness and reading books. However, his favorite hobby is and always will be martial arts. Ben loves to share that passion with the next generation and is committed to making every class a rewarding experience for every student at Pura Vida.
KENZIE
MINER
Youth MMA Program Coach
Director of Marketing
Kenzie brings energy, experience, and a love for martial arts to every kids' kickboxing class. With three years of teaching and training cardio kickboxing in Madison, WI, she knows how to keep classes fun while helping young athletes develop essential skills. Since 2021, Kenzie has been actively training at Pura Vida in kickboxing and jiu-jitsu, continuously improving her craft. Her experience working with kids allows her to connect with them easily, fostering a safe and supportive environment where they can build confidence, learn discipline, and enjoy every step of their martial arts journey.
Outside of Pura Vida, movement remains a big part of Kenzie's life. She enjoys running, yoga, and strength training to stay active. When she's not training, she loves traveling, cooking, reading, and spending quality time with family, friends, and her two dogs. Kenzie also currently serves in the U.S. Navy Reserve, further demonstrating her dedication to discipline, service, and personal growth.
Above all, Kenzie is passionate about helping kids develop skills that will empower them both on and off the mats, building a foundation of confidence, resilience, and a love for movement.
JOSH RUIZ
Striking Fundamentals Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt
MMA Striking Brown Belt
Josh Ruiz began his journey at Pura Vida in 2015 through a beginner Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class at University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. After dealing with injuries that limited his ability to grapple, he shifted his focus to striking and kickboxing where he found a new challenge and passion in mastering the details of the art.
Since then, training has become a key part of Josh’s life, helping him build confidence, discipline, and balance both on and off the mats. His experience has shaped not only his physical development, but also his mindset and approach to everyday life.
As an instructor, Josh is passionate about helping others find that same sense of confidence and personal growth. He teaches beginner kickboxing and strength & conditioning classes, creating a supportive environment where students can learn, improve, and push themselves at their own pace.
MIKE WALTZ
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt
Mike began training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2012 and has been passionate about it ever since. What started as an interest quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit one he enjoys not only practicing, but also teaching and continuously evolving.
Over the years, Mike has expanded his skill set by incorporating wrestling and kickboxing, creating a well-rounded approach to training. While he values all aspects of martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains at the core of his journey.
For Mike, training has been truly life-changing, and he’s committed to sharing that experience with others. As an instructor, he focuses on helping students learn, grow, and find their own path making the process both effective and enjoyable.