Best and Brightest: Nader Tannir

Nader Tannir

CEO

Lycan Mixed Martial Arts

Columbia

Age 35

I am the founder and head coach Lycan MMA, bringing a background as a world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor, sports scientist, and coach. Having competed at the highest levels of the sport, I have earned international podium finishes and have been ranked among the world’s top IBJJF Master 1 No-Gi Black Belts. I combine elite competitive experience with evidence-based coaching to develop athletes of all ages and skill levels. Under my leadership, Lycan MMA has grown into one of the Southeast’s premier martial arts academies, producing IBJJF champions and multiple team titles while fostering a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence. Beyond the mats, I am passionate about leadership, business development, and building partnerships that create lasting value. My mission is to use martial arts as a vehicle to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and inspire others to pursue excellence in every aspect of life.

Favorite Quote and Why: “If you want to take the island, burn the ships.” That’s more than my favorite quote — it’s the philosophy that has shaped my life. The phrase comes from the story of Hernán Cortés ordering his men to burn their ships after landing in Mexico, eliminating any possibility of retreat. There was no Plan B. No escape. The only option was to move forward. That mindset resonates with me because success is rarely achieved by those who leave themselves an easy way out. Every meaningful accomplishment in my life — building Lycan MMA from the ground up, competing on the world stage, and developing athletes — required complete commitment. There were setbacks, sacrifices, injuries, and moments when quitting would have been easier. But when failure isn’t an option, you find another level of determination. To me, “burn the ships” means embracing uncertainty, committing fully to your purpose, and refusing to let fear dictate your decisions. Growth happens when you eliminate excuses and bet on yourself. Once you’ve chosen your destination, there is no turning back — only the relentless pursuit of the mission.

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader isn’t measured by how many people follow them, but by how many leaders they produce. Real leadership is about developing others, creating opportunities for them to grow, and building an organization that thrives because of the people within it. A leader who has to be the center of everything hasn’t built a team, they’ve built dependence. A successful leader empowers others, raises the standard, and creates a culture where people can eventually lead on their own. When your organization continues to grow, improve, and flourish because you’ve invested in others, that’s the true measure of leadership.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: I’d remind myself of a quote often misattributed to Dr. Seuss: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who matter don’t mind, and those who mind don’t matter.” Not everyone will understand your vision, and that’s OK. Stop wasting time trying to convince people who have already decided to doubt you. Surround yourself with people who believe in your dream, challenge you to be better, and genuinely want to see you succeed. The people you keep around you will either fuel your growth or limit your potential. Choose wisely.