Bellicose Martial Arts is a martial arts school in Crofton, MD. The school offers a diverse curriculum that includes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Thai Kickboxing, Wrestling, Krav Maga, Tae Kwon Do, Filipino Martial Arts, and Women's Self-Defense. Programs are designed for both kids and adults, with specific classes for after-school students, cardio kickboxing, and boot camp training. The instruction focuses on self-defense techniques, fighting logic, and purposeful workouts to enhance both body and mind.
The school traces its roots to 2010, when it was founded as Bowie Mixed Martial Arts by Carlos Catania and Charles Cherry. Carlos Catania served as the head Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor, holding a black belt earned from Sergio Penha, while Charles Cherry incorporated his backgrounds in Wrestling and Judo into the program. Under their tutelage, the team developed a reputation for competition MMA and BJJ, producing the first professional MMA fighter from the group. In 2018, the founders pursued different business paths, and in 2020, the organization officially changed its name to Bellicose Martial Arts to reflect its move to the current location in Crofton. The name was chosen to shift focus away from cage fighting toward a more family-friendly and holistic martial arts environment. At the time of the move, the school joined the Evolution Fight Team, which is headed by 5th degree BJJ black belt Carlos David Oliveira. Today, the school is led by Professor Charles Cherry, who holds a 3rd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a 2nd degree black belt in Judo, and a black belt in Kickboxing, along with an extensive background in Wrestling.
Located at 2146 Priest Bridge Court, Suite 7, the school sits about a quarter of a mile from the FedEx Ship Center and roughly three-tenths of a mile from the Crofton Post Office. It is situated near Defense Highway, with the Crofton Woods neighborhood and the Patuxent River Greenway nature preserve both within half a mile of the facility.
Bellicose Martial Arts holds a 4.90 rating from customers who have reviewed the school. This positive reception reflects the school's long-standing history in the region and its continued focus on practical skills and community instruction in Crofton.