Pjeter Berishaj

Founder + Head Instructor

Pjeter Berishaj, owner and head instructor at Black Mountain Defense, has innovatively synthesized his extensive expertise in Krav Maga, boxing, grappling, and jiu-jitsu to create his own dynamic mixed combat system for self-defense. Emphasizing a holistic understanding of striking, groundwork, and clinch techniques, he prepares students for diverse combat scenarios with a well-rounded approach. Holding a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga, Pjeter’s dedication to ongoing learning is evident, and he continually expands his skill set through training in boxing, grappling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Certified in Integrative Defense Strategies, NRA instruction, and Rangemaster, Pjeter ensures students receive comprehensive training in legal education, hand-to-hand combat, firearm implementation, and more. His mastery spans multiple disciplines, enriching instruction with specialties such as weapons-based grappling, in-fight weapon access techniques, and advanced jiu-jitsu strategies.

Through Black Mountain Defense, Pjeter equips students with the tools, knowledge, and mindset necessary to face challenges head-on and emerge stronger, all while maintaining his commitment to staying at the forefront of self-defense and combat training.

SIMON BERISHAJ

Lead Boxing Instructor

Simon is one of the lead instructors for the Youth Boxing Club at Black Mountain Defense and a certified USA Boxing coach. With 8 years of experience in the sport, including competitive bouts, he brings a deep well of knowledge, skill, and firsthand perspective to every session.

Simon’s coaching style is rooted in a holistic approach—emphasizing not only technical proficiency but also conditioning, strategy, and mental resilience. He believes boxing is as much about mental toughness and smart decision-making as it is about physical strength, and he works to instill those values in every student he coaches.

Vlora Marku

Lead Boxing & Jiu-Jitsu Instructor | Firearms Instructor

Vlora is a versatile and dedicated instructor with a Level 2 certification in Black Mountain Defense’s Mixed Combat System and a Level 3 certification in Integrative Defense Strategies (IDS). She is also a certified USPCA firearms instructor and holds a USA Boxing Coach certification. With a background in jiu-jitsu, weapons-based grappling, and boxing, Vlora brings a practical, well-rounded skill set to her instruction and continues to train and compete to keep her skills sharp.

At Black Mountain Defense, Vlora assists in a variety of classes, including firearms instruction. She also serves as one of the lead instructors for both the youth boxing program and kids’ jiu-jitsu classes—fostering discipline, focus, and confidence in young athletes.

Her creative background adds a dynamic edge to her teaching, helping her design engaging and effective training environments for students of all ages and skill levels. Vlora is currently pursuing Level 4 certifications in IDS, as well as Rangemaster certification, to continue growing her expertise.

CAMERON SOMERS

Jiu Jitsu Instructor

Cameron has a diverse background in combat training, with a primary focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu here at Black Mountain Defense. Cameron holds a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a Black Belt in Krav Maga, and is certified at Level 3 in Black Mountain Defense’s Mixed Combat system.

As a BJJ practitioner and instructor, he is passionate about helping students of all levels develop their grappling skills, confidence, and technical understanding of the art. His teaching style emphasizes key concepts and techniques such as positional control, escapes, submissions, and the critical importance of timing and leverage. Because of his extensive knowledge in self-defense, he also integrates self-defense principles into his Jiu-Jitsu curriculum, ensuring that students not only excel in sport Jiu-Jitsu but also develop practical, real-world skills for self-defense situations.

Outside of the gym, Cameron is deeply committed to the continuous growth of his own practice. He regularly attends seminars, workshops, training camps, and actively competes to stay at the forefront of Jiu-Jitsu. This ongoing personal development ensures that his students receive the most current, effective, and high-level instruction.

RICH PRIEST

Firearms Instructor

With more than 15 years of firearms instruction experience, Rich brings a lifetime of shooting, hunting, and competitive shooting to every class he teaches. A Michigan native, he spent 12 years in Arizona before returning home and joining the team at Black Mountain Defense.

Rich is passionate about helping everyday people develop the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to responsibly protect themselves and their loved ones. His instruction emphasizes safe gun handling, practical defensive skills, and creating a welcoming learning environment where students of all experience levels can succeed.

As a Rangemaster Certified Defensive Shotgun Instructor, USCCA Certified Defensive Pistol Instructor, and NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, Rich is committed to continual growth as both a student and an instructor. He believes that quality training should be practical, engaging, and accessible, giving students the confidence and competence to perform under pressure.