A truly sordid infiltration has shaken the peaks of a Tennessee karate dojo. We wrote recently about how it has revealed connections to a neo-Nazi organization known as the Active Club. William Chase May, the man in this hate group. He was going to the Shelbyville BJJ Academy, a Brazilian jiu‐jitsu school that runs kids’ classes starting at just three years old. The impact of this pernicious infiltration, however, are alarming and foreshadow a potential statewide attack on the safety and integrity of youth programs.
Earlier this year, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) published a detailed report that shined a light on the recruitment efforts of the Tennessee Active Club. This coalition created a series of artist networking events and fight clubs centered around Nashville. Both of these events occurred during a convening in a general store. The store’s owner, it should be noted, is a guy who unapologetically calls himself an “actual literal Nazi.” Through a series of investigative reports, the SPLC revealed the deeply troubling ways that the Active Club functions. They exposed the club’s ties to the racist extremist group, Patriot Front.
Perhaps the most troubling aspect of this story is the Active Club’s influence in Tennessee. Evidence shows that it is being secretly controlled by the Patriot Front, a known racist and neo-fascist organization. In early December 2023, news about the club started circulating on Bluesky — an emerging social media platform — shining even more light on its cruel activities.
William Chase May’s involvement raises further alarm. This year, he even uploaded a photo of himself sharpening a machete—to Shelbyville BJJ’s Google Reviews page. This was a public wish that his attendance at a school-hosted event became clear. The academy admitted that he was a member, but claimed that he attended only rarely.
“It was through Chase May that I identified Shelbyville BJJ.” – Inteltwink.
Furthermore, reports indicate that an Active Club flag featuring the sonnenrad, a symbol associated with Nazi Germany, was displayed prominently in the area where young children typically gather during classes. This shocking discovery highlights the very real dangers of extremist ideologies from permeating spaces that should be safe havens for kids.
Alexander Ritzmann, an expert on radical extremist movements, criticized the types of recruitment tactics used by these organizations. He added that they have a tendency to prey on young people in school settings.
“Laid out the principle recruiting strategy, which includes reaching out to minors at schools.” – Alexander Ritzmann.
Shelbyville’s BJJ Academy has made a public stand against any ties to extremist ideology. In a press release, they touted their efforts to prioritize inclusivity and safety.
“That type of behavior at our gym is a direct violation of our code of ethics and goes against our community offering as a safe place for children and adults.” – Shelbyville BJJ Academy.
“We accept and welcome all people. We all belong. No matter background, skin color, creed, nationality, or status.” – Shelbyville BJJ Academy.
Transmission of virus and disease
Though May’s link to the school seems random and temporary, the effects of such ties are far-reaching. The presence of hate groups in community settings raises critical questions about the safety of youth programs in Tennessee and beyond.
In October 2024, May even allowed herself to be photographed with Patriot Front leader Ian Elliott. The picture was posted on his official Telegram channel. May’s ties to violent extremist factions are only growing more pronounced. Yet, in light of their growing power across our local communities, this scenario should be a huge red flag.
Patriot Front organizers have set up a 122-acre paramilitary compound in Tellico Plains, Tennessee. This policy move by them demonstrates they are not only here, but they are working and growing their regional power base on the ground and in-state. This issue gives a playbook for training and recruitment efforts designed to further militarize and mobilize right-wing extremists.
While the investigation into the infiltration is ongoing, community leaders and parents like Kyshon Brandon are ready to defend kids from extremist propaganda. The Shelbyville BJJ Academy’s response reflects a broader commitment among local organizations to maintain safe environments free from hate and violence.