.png)
Unleash Your Potential at the Top 10 MMA Training Camps Around the World
- kennyherrholz
- Aug 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 7
Hey combat sports fans! Ready to take your MMA to the next level?
Success in this tough sport isn’t just about talent and hard work but also the quality of training you get.
Training with elite fighters can take your skills to the next level as you get multi-disciplinary coaching and the unique experiences of your peers.
To help you choose the perfect training camp for you, we’ve put together the top 10 MMA training camps in the world. Each gym on our list has produced world-class fighters. Let’s get started!
1. American Top Team (ATT) - Coconut Creek, Florida
Located in sunny Florida, ATT is known for its world-class coaches and top-notch facilities. Professional fighters rave about the personalized attention they get at ATT, pushing them to their limits.
ATT has a reputation for excellence and attracts fighters from around the world.
Notable Fighters: Dustin Poirier, Amanda Nunes, Jorge MasvidalTraining Highlights: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, striking, strength and conditioningVideo: Inside American Top Team - UFC
Testimonial:
"Training at American Top Team has been a game-changer for my career. The coaches here are unbeatable and the atmosphere is electric."— John “The Beast” Smith
2. AKA - San Jose, California
Want to train where champions are made?
AKA is the place to be. With a focus on strength and conditioning, this camp has produced some of the greatest MMA fighters and has been producing world champions for 5 decades.
Notable Fighters: Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, Cain VelasquezTraining
Highlights: Sambo, wrestling, grappling, cardio.
3. Tristar Gym - Montreal, Canada
Home to coach Firas Zahabi, Tristar Gym offers a unique approach to MMA training, blending traditional martial arts with modern techniques.
Notable Fighters: Georges St-Pierre, Rory MacDonaldTraining Highlights: Technical drilling, sparring, striking and submission grappling.
4. Jackson Wink MMA Academy - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Notable Fighters: Jon Jones, Holly Holm, Carlos Condit
Training Highlights: MMA game-planning, striking combinations, cage control.
Testimonial:
"Jackson Wink MMA Academy has been my home away from home. The camaraderie among fighters and coaches is truly inspiring."— Sarah “The Striker” Johnson
5. SBG Ireland - Dublin, Ireland
Under coach John Kavanagh, SBG Ireland has become a mecca for MMA enthusiasts. Train with some of the sport’s top fighters and up-and-coming talent.
Notable Fighters: Conor McGregor, Gunnar Nelson
Training Highlights: Movement drills, striking, BJJ, mental preparation
6. Tiger Muay Thai - Phuket, Thailand
Immerse yourself in the Thai culture while training MMA at Tiger Muay Thai. Known for its intense training and beautiful setting, this camp is a unique experience.
Notable Fighters: Valentina Shevchenko, Petr YanTraining
Highlights: Muay Thai, MMA sparring, beach conditioning
7. Kings MMA - Huntington Beach, California
Led by coach Rafael Cordeiro, Kings MMA is famous for its striking techniques. Fighters come here to sharpen their stand-up.
Notable Fighters: Fabricio Werdum, Rafael dos Anjos
Training Highlights: Muay Thai, boxing, explosive conditioning
8. Alliance MMA - Chula Vista, California
With multiple training programs, Alliance MMA has something for every level of fighter. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find what you need here.
Notable Fighters: Dominick Cruz, Brandon Vera.
Training Highlights: Kickboxing, strength & mobility, wrestling.
Testimonial: Alliance MMA has been huge in my growth as a fighter. The coaches here are the best and the facilities are top-notch.
— Alex “The Assassin” Rodriguez
9. Blackzilians - Boca Raton, Florida
With a roster of coaches and fighters, Blackzilians is the place to take your MMA to the next level. Elite training in a supportive environment.
Notable Fighters: Anthony Johnson, Rashad Evans
Training Highlights: High-level sparring, strength circuits, recovery science.
10. RIZIN Academy - Tokyo, Japan
Step into the heart of MMA at RIZIN Academy. Disciplined training and technique-focused camp for those looking to improve.
Notable Fighters: Rena Kubota, Kyoji Horiguchi.
Training Highlights: Japanese MMA techniques, striking, grappling arts.
How to Choose the Right MMA Training Camp
What are your goals: Competing professionally or training recreationally?
Research the coaches: Reputation and style.
Check the facilities: Equipment, space, class times.
Read reviews/testimonials: Learn from others.
Other Camps:
AMC Pankration (Washington, USA) — Home to Demetrious Johnson. Elite wrestling & grappling.
Xtreme Couture (Las Vegas, USA) — Resurging under Eric Nicksick.
Nashville MMA (Tennessee, USA) — 80+ classes per week in BJJ, Muay Thai, fitness.
Whether you’re a pro chasing a title or an amateur looking to improve, the right MMA training camp can change your fighting career. Choose the right gym, train smart and take your skills to the next level.