For Natan Levy, the octagon was never the final destination. The Israeli mixed martial arts veteran, who carved out a career in the UFC after years of disciplined training, now finds himself driven by a mission that extends well beyond competition: teaching Jewish communities how to protect themselves.
Sources state that over the past two years, Levy has been running self-defense seminars and training sessions for Jewish and Israeli communities in Las Vegas, and has taken that work to other cities as well.
He has also worked alongside military and security personnel in both the United States and Israel, including engagements with Israeli security units and U.S. Army personnel. For an athlete who spent nearly a decade in professional combat sports, the transition from competitor to community educator has felt natural.
“What motivates me now is to strengthen the Jewish people,” Levy said.
Levy, who says he has received threats online because of his advocacy, argues that Jewish communities have long underestimated the importance of physical preparedness. In his view, the solution is not fear, but readiness.
“I think it’s a wake-up call, and that all Jews, or most of us, will finally wake up, train, and take ourselves, our physical training, seriously, whether it’s in fitness or martial arts, or even, if it’s in the United States, to carry a w*apon, to protect yourself and your family,” he said.
Levy is pointed about why he believes Jewish communities are often singled out.
“Unfortunately, we seem to be the easiest target, and that’s why they’re preying on us,” he said.
His answer to that dynamic is not grievance but preparation. There is also, in his telling, a psychological dimension to training that goes beyond any physical encounter.
“Once you’re strong and know how to defend yourself and have the confidence, you’ll stand differently; you’ll look different. Then you usually won’t have to defend yourself,” he said.
Levy began training seriously at 15, eventually relocating to the United States and earning a spot on the UFC roster. Alongside competing, he spent years coaching, and it is that combination of experience he now brings to his community work. He credits the discipline of combat sports with reshaping his own outlook.
“Once I dedicated myself completely to this sport, I saw how my life changed for the better,” he said.
For those looking to start, Levy points to Krav Maga, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as solid options, though he is quick to note that finding a quality instructor often matters more than the specific discipline chosen.
Not all of the feedback he has encountered has been positive. Levy expressed concern over accounts from Jewish practitioners who said they faced hostility in certain gyms due to geopolitical tensions.
“This is something that is painful and disappointing to the highest degree, because in the end, martial arts and sports are supposed to bring people together,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Levy shows no sign of stepping back. He is set to face former UFC athlete Lando Vannata in a kickboxing bout at the upcoming GFN event in Tel Aviv.
