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Master Rafael Nieto

Rafael Nieto is the founder of ZEN-DO and currently runs three schools in London (Camden, Baker Street and Golders Green).

Rafael's philosophy is "Fit for Life", and he believes that people who train in Zen-Do should be incorporating martial arts as a symbiotic part of daily life. Zen-Do and life should come together as one.

Rafael Nieto, an eight times national Martial Arts champion, has been a martial artist since 1975 and has represented the nation at World and European championships as a double winner.

He became Technical Director of the National College of Karate in 1988 and British Team Coach in 1992. By 1994 he represented Britain at the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) and founded and developed the Spanish WAKO Organisation.

Rafael is considered a leader in his industry and is often approached on a consultancy basis by print and broadcast media.

Denise Bailey (5th Dan)

Denise Bailey has been practising martial arts since 1986.

She achieved her black belt 1st Dan in 1989 and began her teaching career.

She has currently reached the level of 5th Dan, making her one of the most qualified instructors at Karmaa.

Denise qualified as an international judge and referee in 1993, she has also competed in a large number of both international and national tournaments including winning the national title no less than 9 times, being placed at six international events including being both European and World Champion.



Sensei Marcus Raccanello (1st Dan)

Sensei Marcus Raccanello started judo at 7 yrs old, entering several competitions before he finished training at 14. He then studied Wing Chun from 17-18.
He started Mugendo kickboxing at The Tonbridge Club in 1994 and reached his senior grade in 1996.  After some years travelling and working in the public sector as well as spending time training in a variety of different sports whilst considering a possible career in stunt work for television and film, Marcus came back to full time training in 2002. He started teaching in 2003. 

He took black belt first Dan in February 2007 and is looking to compete whenever possible. His varied background brings a relaxed and charismatic charm to the team.



Sensei Anthony Nieto (2nd Dan)

Anthony started training at the age of 5 with his father, the Founder of Zendo, Master Rafael Nieto.

He took his black belt first Dan in 2007. Anthony has competed in full contact, National and International championships, winning gold at the Spanish championships in Barcelona in 2007.

Anthony is the youngest and a very robust member of the team, who brings charm, humour and an abundance of energy.

His confidence and personality stand him in good stead to becoming a future World Champion.


Sensei Nicolas Antoine (1st Dan)

Nicolas has been practising Martial Arts since the age of 9 with Shotokan Karate, which he practiced for 4 years.

In 2008 he started practising Zendo Kickboxing. Nicolas impressed and progressed very quickly through the system.

He started teaching in 2009. Nicolas brings lots of character and confidence to the Team.