Zee Durham

Professor Zee Durham brings a lifetime of combat-tested experience and elite-level martial arts training to Renzo Gracie Clarksville. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Coach Ray Casias (Zenith BJJ), Zee is passionate about coaching others to develop the skill, composure, and mindset needed to face and overcome violent threats. His expertise extends beyond Jiu-Jitsu, as he is also a firearms and defensive tactics instructor, specializing in real-world combatives and tactical training.

Zee’s martial arts background is deeply rooted in both military and civilian combatives. During his military career, he completed Special Forces Sniper School, Modern Army Combatives Levels 1-3, Special Operations Combatives Program, and multiple advanced shooting and tactics courses. His experience training alongside elite military units, law enforcement, and foreign special forces has given him unparalleled insight into the practical application of hand-to-hand combat and weapons training.

After retiring as a Master Sergeant from 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), where he served in the unit’s elite Direct Action and Hostage Rescue company (A/1/5), Zee shifted his focus to teaching. Whether coaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, defensive tactics, or firearms proficiency, his mission remains the same—empowering students to be confident, prepared, and highly capable in any situation.

When he’s not on the mats or the range, Zee enjoys chocolate, coffee, and basketball. He is a husband, father of five, and grandfather of two, and he is dedicated to growing both as a coach and as a person.