Welcome to our guide on the best MMA gyms in the world! Whether you’re a seasoned fighter or just starting out, finding the right gym is crucial to your success in the sport. In this article, we’ll be showcasing the top 5 best MMA gyms in the world, based on factors such as the number of world champions produced, quality of facilities, and reputation in the MMA community.
Training at one of these premier MMA gyms is a surefire way to take your skills to the next level and train with the best of the best. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the world-class MMA gyms that made our list!
Table of Contents
American Top Team
American Top Team (ATT) is one of the premier MMA gyms in the world. Based in Coconut Creek, Florida, the gym was founded in 2001 by Dan Lambert and Ricardo Liborio.
ATT boasts world-class facilities, including a 40,000-square-foot training center equipped with a full-sized boxing ring, multiple mat areas, a weight room, and a recovery center with saunas, hot tubs, and cryotherapy chambers.
The gym has produced numerous world champions in MMA, including Robbie Lawler, Amanda Nunes, and Joanna Jedrzejczyk. ATT also has a strong reputation for developing up-and-coming fighters, with a focus on a well-rounded approach to training that includes wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and striking.
The coaching staff at ATT includes some of the best in the business, including head coach Mike Brown, who is a former WEC featherweight champion and UFC fighter. Other notable coaches include Din Thomas, Steve Mocco, and Kami Barzini.
Jackson Wink MMA Academy
Jackson Wink MMA Academy, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the leading MMA training facilities in the world. Founded by coaches Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn, the gym has produced multiple world champions and has a reputation for producing top-level fighters.
The state-of-the-art facilities at Jackson Wink MMA Academy include a full-size boxing ring, MMA cage, and a large mat area for grappling and striking. The gym also features a weight room, sauna, and recovery center to help fighters stay in top shape.
Notable coaches at Jackson Wink MMA Academy include Greg Jackson, Mike Winkeljohn, and Brandon Gibson. The gym has trained several well-known fighters, including Jon Jones, Holly Holm, and Carlos Condit.
Training programs at Jackson Wink MMA Academy are comprehensive and include classes in MMA, boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gym also offers private coaching and training camps for fighters looking to take their skills to the next level.
Overall, Jackson Wink MMA Academy is a top-rated MMA gym with a proven track record of producing successful fighters. With its world-class facilities and experienced coaching staff, it’s no surprise that the gym attracts fighters from all over the world.
AKA (American Kickboxing Academy)
One of the premier MMA gyms in the world, AKA (American Kickboxing Academy) has a long history of producing world-class fighters. Founded in 1985 by kickboxing champion Javier Mendez, AKA has since become a leading name in the world of MMA.
AKA’s facilities are top-rated and include a full-size boxing ring, a cage, two MMA floors, and a weight training area. The gym is equipped with all the necessary gear for fighters to train at the highest level, including heavy bags, speed bags, and a variety of training equipment.
The coaches at AKA are some of the best in the world, including Javier Mendez and Bob Cook. Notable fighters who have trained at AKA include Daniel Cormier, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Cain Velasquez. The gym has won countless titles and produced numerous world champions, making it one of the most successful MMA gyms in the world.
If you’re looking for a premier MMA gym that has a proven track record of producing champions, AKA is definitely worth considering.
Nova União
Nova União is a highly respected martial arts training center located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Founded in 1995 by André Pederneiras and Wendell Alexander, Nova União has produced numerous world champions in both MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
The gym boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a full-sized MMA cage, a wrestling area, and a strength and conditioning room. Its coaching staff is led by André Pederneiras, who is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in MMA. Pederneiras has trained some of the biggest names in the sport, including José Aldo, Renan Barão, and Marlon Moraes.
Notable Fighters and Accomplishments
| Fighter | Championships |
|---|---|
| José Aldo | UFC Featherweight Champion, WEC Featherweight Champion |
| Renan Barão | UFC Interim Bantamweight Champion |
| Marlon Moraes | WSOF Bantamweight Champion |
Nova União is known for its focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and its ability to produce high-level grapplers. However, its fighters are also well-rounded and capable of striking with the best in the world. With a reputation as one of the best martial arts training centers in the world, Nova União is a top choice for fighters looking to take their skills to the next level.
Tristar MMA
Tristar MMA is a premier MMA gym located in Montreal, Canada. The gym was founded by head coach Firas Zahabi, who is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the sport. Tristar MMA is known for its focus on developing well-rounded fighters with a strong foundation in martial arts fundamentals.
| Facilities | Coaches | Notable Fighters |
|---|---|---|
| State-of-the-art training facility with top-of-the-line equipment | Firas Zahabi, Kru Ash, and Bruno Fernandes | Georges St-Pierre, Rory MacDonald, and Kenny Florian |
Tristar MMA is known for its excellent coaching staff, led by Firas Zahabi, who has trained some of the biggest names in MMA, including former UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre. Zahabi’s coaching style emphasizes technique and strategy, making it ideal for fighters who want to develop their skills and become well-rounded athletes.
In addition to Zahabi, Tristar MMA has other top-level coaches, such as Kru Ash, who specializes in Muay Thai, and Bruno Fernandes, who is an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Tristar MMA has produced many notable fighters, including Georges St-Pierre, Rory MacDonald, and Kenny Florian. St-Pierre, in particular, is considered one of the greatest fighters of all time, and his success is a testament to the quality of training at Tristar MMA.
Honorable Mentions
Although these MMA gyms did not make the top 5 list, they are still considered top-rated, premier, and global in the MMA community.
| Gym Name | Location | Notable Fighters |
|---|---|---|
| Team Alpha Male | Sacramento, California, USA | TJ Dillashaw, Urijah Faber |
| Team Nogueira | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Anderson Silva |
| Kings MMA | Huntington Beach, California, USA | Rafael Dos Anjos, Fabricio Werdum |
| Alliance MMA | Chula Vista, California, USA | Dominick Cruz, Phil Davis |
These are some of the other top-rated MMA gyms around the world that have produced world-class fighters and offer top-quality training facilities and coaching staff.
How to Choose the Right MMA Gym for You
Choosing the right MMA gym is crucial to your success as a fighter. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
Consider Your Goals
Think about what you want to achieve in MMA and find a gym that aligns with those goals. If you want to compete professionally, look for a gym with a track record of producing successful fighters. If you’re just starting out, choose a gym with a focus on fundamentals and a welcoming community.
Location and Schedule
Choose a gym that is conveniently located for you and offers class times that fit your schedule. If the gym is too far away or has classes at times that don’t work for you, it’ll be hard to commit long-term.
Quality of Facilities and Coaching
Make sure the gym has clean, well-maintained facilities and experienced coaches who are knowledgeable and supportive. Check out online reviews and visit the gym in person to get a feel for the atmosphere.
Focus on Your Discipline
If you have a specific area of interest, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or wrestling, look for a gym with a focus on that discipline. You’ll get more specialized training and be able to develop your skills more quickly.
Try Before You Commit
Many gyms offer free trial classes or short-term memberships. Take advantage of these opportunities to try out the gym and see if it’s a good fit for you before committing long-term.
Benefits of Training at a World-Class MMA Gym
Training at a world-class MMA gym can have numerous benefits for fighters of all levels. Here are just a few reasons why training at one of the best MMA gyms in the world can benefit your fighting career:
- Access to top coaches: World-class MMA gyms are known for attracting the best coaches in the sport, many of whom have trained and coached world champions. Having access to these coaches can help you improve your technique, strategy, and overall fighting skills.
- High-quality training partners: When you train at a top-rated MMA gym, you’ll be surrounded by other fighters who are just as dedicated and motivated as you are. This creates an environment where you can push yourself to your limits and learn from others with different fighting styles and backgrounds.
- State-of-the-art facilities: The best martial arts training centers often invest in top-of-the-line training equipment and facilities to create the optimal training environment for their fighters. This means you’ll have access to everything you need to train at your best and improve your skills.
- Exposure to the best practices in the sport: MMA is constantly evolving, and training at a world-class gym means having access to the latest techniques and strategies that fighters are using to win at the highest levels of the sport.
- A path to success: Many of the world’s top MMA fighters got their start at one of these premier MMA gyms. Training at one of these gyms can help you build the skills, experience, and connections you need to succeed as a professional fighter.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics of MMA or an experienced fighter looking to take your skills to the next level, training at one of the best MMA gyms in the world can be a game-changer for your career.
Training at an MMA Gym vs. Training at Home
While it is possible to train for MMA at home, there are several advantages to training at a world-class MMA gym. First and foremost, training at a gym offers access to professional coaching and a supportive community of fellow fighters. This can be especially helpful for beginners who are just starting out.
At an MMA gym, you will have access to high-quality training partners of varying skill levels, which can help you improve more quickly. In addition, a gym will have state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that you may not have at home.
Training at home can also be risky if you are not properly equipped or trained. Without the guidance of a professional coach, you may be more prone to injury or may not be using proper technique.
Ultimately, the choice between training at an MMA gym or at home depends on your individual goals and circumstances. However, for those serious about pursuing a career in MMA or improving their skills, training at a top-rated MMA gym is highly recommended.
FAQ About the Best MMA Gyms in the World
What makes a gym one of the best MMA gyms in the world?
Several factors determine what makes a gym one of the best MMA gyms in the world. Some of the factors include producing multiple world champions, having state-of-the-art facilities, and having a reputation in the MMA community.
What should I look for when selecting an MMA gym?
When selecting an MMA gym, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, location, quality of facilities and coaching, and the gym’s focus on your particular discipline of interest. You should also research the gym’s reputation by reading reviews and talking to other fighters.
Do I need to have experience in martial arts to train at an MMA gym?
No, you do not necessarily need to have experience in martial arts to train at an MMA gym. Many gyms offer beginner classes, and coaches are trained to work with fighters of all skill levels.
How can training at a world-class MMA gym benefit my career as a fighter?
Training at a world-class MMA gym can provide access to top coaches, high-quality training partners, state-of-the-art facilities, and exposure to the best practices in the sport. This can help you improve your skills, gain valuable experience, and advance your career as a fighter.
What should I expect from training at a top-rated MMA gym?
You can expect to receive high-quality coaching, access to a wide range of training partners, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and exposure to top-level competition. You should also expect to work hard and commit yourself fully to your training.
How can I get started in MMA?
If you are interested in getting started in MMA, the first step is to find a reputable gym that offers classes in your area. You should also research the sport and familiarize yourself with the rules and techniques of MMA.
Conclusion
Choosing the right MMA gym is essential for any aspiring fighter. With so many world-class MMA gyms to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for you.
In this article, we’ve outlined the top 5 best MMA gyms in the world, including American Top Team, Jackson Wink MMA Academy, AKA (American Kickboxing Academy), Nova União, and Tristar MMA. These gyms have a proven track record of producing world champions and offer state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch coaching, and comprehensive training programs.
However, there are many other top-rated MMA gyms that didn’t make our list but are still worth considering. No matter which gym you choose, it’s important to consider factors such as location, cost, facilities, coaching, and the gym’s focus on your particular discipline of interest.
Training at a world-class MMA gym offers many benefits, including access to top coaches, high-quality training partners, state-of-the-art facilities, and exposure to the best practices in the sport. This type of training can help you achieve your goals and advance your career as a fighter.
While training at an MMA gym offers many advantages, it’s essential to remember that proper instruction and equipment are essential for your safety and success. Training alone at home without guidance and equipment can be risky and may not provide the same benefits as training with a professional team.
If you’re considering training at an MMA gym, we hope this article has provided helpful guidance on how to choose the right gym for your needs and goals. Remember, choosing a reputable and high-quality gym is essential for your success as an MMA fighter.
