On Friday, November 3rd, 2017, Krav Maga Alliance Founder John Whitman was awarded his 6th Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga by a committee of his peers. John received his 5th Degree Black Belt from Wingate Institute in 2012.  Rankings after 5th Degree are awarded by merit, and John was recognized for his efforts in promoting Krav Maga through the Krav Maga Alliance, the creation of the Krav Maga Pro app, his continued training as a practitioner in Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and firearms, and his dedication to helping other Krav Maga programs grow.