When UFC bantamweight John Castañeda steps into the Octagon, fans expect speed, strength, and agility. Recently, he faced a different kind of challenge, one that tested control in a law enforcement setting.
Castañeda, an instructor with STORM Training Group, volunteered to demonstrate how Wrap Technologies’ BolaWrap® 150, a non-lethal restraint device, works with STORM’s defensive tactics. The demonstration showed how effective the combination can be in helping officers safely gain control during encounters.
Castañeda said his experience helped him better understand officers' challenges and the importance of precise, practiced techniques.
“Being part of this process has given me a whole new respect for what officers face in the field,” he said. “The techniques are precise, and the training shows how much preparation goes into handling situations safely and effectively. I’m proud to help bring this to agencies nationwide."
STORM’s defensive tactics training is now available through a new partnership on WrapTactics™, Wrap’s subscription-based learning platform. The training focuses on what happens after BolaWrap deployment, helping officers transition safely to lawful control techniques.
“Partnering with Wrap allows our training to reach far beyond our classrooms in Minnesota,” said Chad Malmberg, president and CEO of STORM Training Group. “With WrapTactics™, agencies nationwide can access the same evidence-based defensive tactics we’ve been teaching for years, helping officers protect themselves and the communities they serve.”
For Wrap, the collaboration reinforces its mission to enhance officer safety and improve outcomes in high-stakes situations.
“STORM’s expertise in lawful control techniques perfectly complements our BolaWrap technology,” said President and Chief Operating Officer of Wrap, Jared Novick. “Together, we’re helping officers gain skills they can rely on, and delivering that training in a way that’s easy to access, anytime, anywhere.”
Castañeda’s first-hand involvement highlights how this partnership isn’t just about technology; it’s about people, practice, and putting proven techniques into action. Agencies subscribing to WrapTactics™ now have the opportunity to explore this training digitally and in person, providing flexible access to critical defensive tactics that can make a real difference in the field.
The future of law enforcement is pre-escalation. Don't let your agency fall behind in adopting the tools and tactics that save lives, reduce injuries, preserve careers, and minimize liability exposure.
