Karan Singh Bains

Karan Singh Bains was much more than a training partner to me. He was a dear friend who played an important part in my journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and in the creation of what would eventually become Southall Submission Grappling.

Karan was one of the people who helped shape the visual identity of this academy. The logos, cloud patterns and artwork that appear throughout this website and across the Southall Submission Grappling brand were created with his help.

Every time I look at these designs, I am reminded of the time, creativity and friendship behind them.

He was also part of my earliest experiences as an instructor. Karan and George were the first people I ever graded to blue belt. I remember spending three hours going through every technique in the curriculum with them before eventually awarding them their belts.

It was one of the first moments that made me realise how much teaching would come to mean to me.

Outside of our own training, Karan helped bring people together through his involvement in Sikh grappling tournaments. These events created an opportunity for members of the Sikh community to come together through a shared passion for Jiu-Jitsu and grappling.

The events were held and represented by Slough Singh Sabha.

His contribution went beyond the mats. He helped create things that will continue to be seen, used and remembered long after he was gone.

A part of Karan remains in this academy.

Every time these designs are seen, every time someone steps onto the mats, and every time people come together through Jiu-Jitsu, his contribution is remembered.

Thank you, Karan.

May you rest in peace, brother.