KMAA's Mixed Martial Arts:
The Science of Total Combat Efficiency

We don’t just teach Kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu separately and hope you can figure out how to put them together. We teach Integrated MMA—the art of seamlessly transitioning from striking to takedowns to ground control. Whether your goal is the UFC octagon or supreme self-confidence, our curriculum is designed to build a fighter who is dangerous at every range.

The KMAA Process

Success isn’t an accident; it’s a formula. We utilize a proprietary, data-driven curriculum that tracks every metric of your evolution. This isn't guesswork—it is an engineered roadmap. If you follow the blueprint, we virtually guarantee your progression from your first day on the mats to your hand being raised in the cage.

The Ecological Edge

MMA is chaos. Traditional "dead drilling" fails when the punches start flying. We use the Constraints-Led Approach to simulate the unpredictability of a real fight from Day One. You won’t just memorize moves; you will develop the adaptability to seamlessly blend striking, wrestling, and grappling instantly under pressure.

A Factory for Champions

We don't just watch the pros; we build them. For nearly 30 years, KMAA has taken athletes from their first day of training to the absolute highest levels of combat sports. Our track record is undeniable: we produce elite, winning fighters who don't just compete—they dominate.

TESTIMONIALS

What others are saying

"This is the first place I ever invested in a gym membership..."

"This is the first place I ever invested in a gym membership. I had ZERO experience, but was excited to learn. The coaches and other members were really helpful and willing to work with the "newbie". Also, it's really fun to hit things... great stress reliever! I have gained confidence, knowing I can defend myself, and I love the amount of calories I burn while having fun. I've been there for 2 years now and have competed in BJJ competitions and now amateur MMA! Worth it!"

- Christina R (Invicta FC veteran)

"I've trained all over the world and I keep coming back to KMAA"

Since my career has lasted as long as it's lasted, I've had the privilege of training at every top gym in the world. American Top Team, Alliance, Jackson-Wink, etc. You name a top gym and I've trained with them. I've trained all over the world and I keep coming back to KMAA. The reason? I keep coming back to KMAA is simple: Coach Eric Turner. He's a genius. He keeps reinventing KMAA every few years to keep up with the best teams and the most important skillsets. The 2026 KMAA Process that he's developed is one of the most amazing things I've ever seen and I wish I had it when I was still competing.

- Ovince Saint Preux (long time UFC veteran)

"I wish I would have listened to Coach Eric more during my career"

When I was competing in MMA, Coach Eric helped me develop a more well-rounded MMA style. I was already a highly decorated BJJ submission specialist, but Coach Eric helped me round out my game to be a more complete Mixed Martial Artist. Now, looking back on my career, I tell students this: I wish I would have listened to Coach Eric more during my UFC career. I have no doubts I would have won more fights and made more money if I would have trusted his vision for fighting. The second best thing I can do now is this: tell people to listen to Coach and trust what he's telling you!

- Rafaello Oliveira (long time UFC veteran)

"KMAA has changed my life in so many ways..."

"Knoxville Martial Arts Academy has changed my life in so many ways, and now I am thrilled to watch KMAA do the same for my son! My son has grown in self confidence, strength, explosiveness, and general athleticism. The results speak for themselves!

When I started, I was just looking to lose some weight. I was a busy school teacher, mom, and wife. As a collegiate baseketball player, I was active in college but couldn't find an outlet after I graduated.

Since finding KMAA, I lost almost 200 lbs., began competing in MMA competitions, eventually went pro and was blessed enough to compete for some great organizations like Invicta FC, Bellator, and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). None of that would have been possible without the amazing coaches and teammates at KMAA.

- Olivia Parker
(Invicta FC, Bellator MMA, and PFL veteran)

Ready to Get Started?

Let's Make a Schedule that fits your busy life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Mixed Martial Arts Questions

Do I need experience in BJJ or Boxing before joining MMA?

No. In fact, it is often better to start with us so you don't develop "bad habits" from pure styles (like a boxer standing too heavy on their lead leg). We teach you the integrated stance and movement from Day One.

Is MMA safe? Will I get hurt?

Safety is paramount. While MMA is a contact sport, our MMA classes are not "Sparring Classes." Just like every class at KMAA, we will engage in Task-Based Games to activate the problem solving part of your brain and body under the competent care and guidance of one our many professional coaches (who are often high-level professional fighters)!

Do I have to fight in a cage to train here?

Not at all. The vast majority of our students train because they love the sport, want the fitness, or want the ultimate form of self-defense. If you do want to fight, we will get you there, but it is never a requirement.

What gear do I need?

For your trial, just bring workout clothes. Once you commit, you will need the following equipment:

- A Mouth Piece

- MMA Sparring gloves. These are commonly called "Muffin Top" MMA gloves and are appropriate for amateur MMA competition. They are kind of a half-way glove between a boxing glove and a professional MMA glove.

- Shin Guards

- Hand Wraps

- We strongly recommend a groin protector for men.

Many of these things can be purchased directly from KMAA at the front desk. If you've got questions about gear, we've got answers!

Is there an MMA ranking system?

At KMAA we created our own form of ranking for MMA and it follows the BJJ color coded system. We use rubber bracelets instead of belts, because belts make no sense in an MMA class. Just like in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, our MMA ranking system starts at white, then blue, then purple, then brown, then black.

Will this get me in shape?

MMA is widely considered the toughest workout in sports. You will burn a massive amount of calories while building functional muscle. It beats running on a treadmill because your mind is engaged the entire time.

What is the male/female ratio? Are there any females that train MMA?

KMAA is the absolute leader when it comes to integrating female students, female athletes, and female coaches. We have taken female athletes from no experience all the way to the UFC, Bellator, Invicta FC, PFL, etc. Many of our best coaches and athletes are females and we're proud to have a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students regardless of their gender or gender expression.

Meet Your Mixed Martial Arts Coaches

At other gyms, the belief is often: "If you can compete well, you can coach well." At KMAA, we know that learning to be a good teacher, learning to be a good coach takes enormous effort. That's why all of our coaching staff begins with a 12 week "Coach Onboarding" class and that is followed up with multiple, continuous education classes and seminars throughout the year/years. They are here to serve your journey, ensuring you feel seen, safe, and supported every step of the way.