Our COACHES
JOHN “DOOMSDAY” HOWARD
Founder & Head Coach AKA ProfessorJohn “Doomsday” Howard is a veteran fighter, coach, and co-owner of Doomsday Defense Dojo. With nearly 50 professional fights and a career spanning some of the highest levels of competition, John brings real experience, proven skill, and a deep understanding of what it takes to perform under pressure.
A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and seasoned striker, John has trained and competed around the world, developing a well-rounded and practical approach to martial arts. His coaching is rooted in discipline, detail, and realism—focused on building techniques that work, not just in theory, but in real situations.
Known for his intensity and authenticity, John pushes his students to rise to their potential while creating an environment built on respect, growth, and accountability.
For John, this dojo is more than a place to train—it’s a place to build confidence, sharpen the mind, and develop strength that carries into every part of life.
SHALAYA
Co-Founder & CoachCoach Shalaya brings energy, intensity, and purpose to every jump rope session. As co-owner of Doomsday Defense Dojo alongside her husband, John, she plays a key role in building the culture, community, and experience both on and off the mat.
What started as a personal fitness practice has evolved into a powerful training tool she uses to build endurance, coordination, and mental toughness. Her style blends rhythm, footwork, and conditioning—helping students improve agility, sharpen their movement, and push past their limits.
Shalaya meets you where you are while challenging you to grow. Her sessions are about more than just cardio—they’re about confidence, consistency, and showing up for yourself.
For Coach Shalaya, jump rope is more than a workout—it’s discipline, focus, and a mindset.
Coach Reggie
Coach Reggie brings decades of real-world experience, discipline, and heart to the mat. Born and raised in Boston, he served as a Boston Police Officer for over 25 years, carrying that same sense of structure, awareness, and accountability into his coaching style.
A lifelong boxer, Reggie has been training since he was a kid and has developed a deep passion for both boxing and jiu-jitsu. His approach is methodical and intentional—he studies his students closely, identifying areas for growth while also highlighting their strengths to help them build confidence and skill.
Reggie’s pad work is known for being both challenging and fun. He pushes you, sharpens your technique, and makes sure you leave better than you came in.
Coach Marc
Coach Marc brings a thoughtful, technical approach to jiu-jitsu—treating every roll like a game of chess. His love for the art began years ago when his daughter started training, and it quickly became a passion of his own.
Marc is known for his willingness to work with anyone, at any level. You’ll often find him on the mat letting students test their pressure and refine their technique, creating a space where learning feels both challenging and approachable.
He’s fun, patient, and deeply passionate about the details of jiu-jitsu. For Coach Marc, it’s not just about the move—it’s about understanding the “why” behind it.
yogi kim
200-HR Kripalu Yoga Teacher
Certified Ayurveda Health Counselor, Specializing in Ayurvedic Psychology
Kim is excited to be at DoomsDay Defense DoJo in Easton, MA. Kim comes with various certifications in the holistic wellness field. Kim is a certified 200-HR Kripalu Yoga Teacher, certified 200-HR YogaSpirit Teacher and certified Ayurveda Health Counselor.
It is through practical study that Kim finds the most wisdom and the deep understanding shared between clients and students. As she steps on the mat, the calling shifts and Kim has fun delivering classes and teachings with light-hearted fun and structured direction. She hopes you join us on the mat to bring a unique awareness to the mind and body through breathing techniques and mechanical movement.
Coach John M.
John Marinella is a rising fighter and dedicated coach at Doomsday Defense Dojo, known for his resilience, discipline, and relentless work ethic.
A student at Stonehill College studying Philosophy, John has a strong athletic background in football, powerlifting, and track. His approach to training is rooted in consistency, growth, and a commitment to the process.
His journey into boxing reflects true perseverance. After three knee surgeries, John continued to show up and put in the work—earning a decisive win in his first fight along with Fighter of the Night honors.
As a coach, John brings positive energy, patience, and a team-first mindset, helping students build confidence, sharpen their skills, and push beyond their limits.
Coach Henry - IN LOVING MEMORY
From Left to Right: Coach Henry, John “Doomsday” Howard, and Henry Jr.
Coach Henry was a powerful presence on and off the mat. Known for his intensity, passion for jiu-jitsu, and unmistakable laugh, he brought energy and authenticity into every class he led. Our students were drawn to his coaching style—demanding, real, and always rooted in a genuine love for the art.
Henry was more than a coach—he was family. He and John shared over 20 years of friendship, a bond built through training, loyalty, and brotherhood.
He passed unexpectedly in January, leaving behind a daughter and a son, along with a community that will never forget the impact he made.
Coach Henry will always be a part of Doomsday Defense Dojo. His spirit lives on in every roll, every lesson, and every student he helped shape.