I have been to a few MMA gyms in my life. I did attend this gym for several years when I attended undergrad at UC Merced. To any UC kids reading this, COME HERE. This place is legit. First of all, if you're a noob, don't be scared. The people here are the kinds of people that will make you grow smarter and stronger. If you don't get stronger, neither do they. So you WILL be able to learn. BJJ takes time to get good at. I'm just a blue belt, but even THAT took me years to obtain. And I still suck a*s. But if you keep coming here, you will become a better person. Second, Professor Marcos is a very good man. He sticks up for the little guys and will make sure you are ALWAYS safe while rolling. If some bigger person is slamming you to the ground, Marcos will put an end to it. And if not him, then someone else will. Marcos cares about everyone, and it shows. Marcos teaches the most realistic moves for self-defense, and he knows A LOT. Third, the people here are amazing. Amy working the front desk is dope. Dragon is super dope. Everyone here is dope. I'm not sure who still attends this place, but I'm sure the rest of the people there all have a good heart. I never encountered a bully when I attended here. I'm not sure the price nowadays, but it's still dirt cheap for the quality of training you will receive here. I have attended a Ralph Gracie gym, and it was trash. Super expensive, and I encountered bullies there. This place is not only reasonably priced; you also get great friends here. No bullies go here. I miss this place. About once a year you can train with Grandmaster Flavio Behring. If you've never met him, you must. It's an amazing and unforgettable experience that not even the "Gracie's" can brag about. Another perk is that you can attend the other gyms affiliated with this place. Like the Oakdale gym. I hate the Central Valley, so I'll never live here again. But if you're in the area and you're looking for a place to train, this is it ladies and gentlemen. You have the BEST MMA gym in CA right here in the middle of nowhere Merced. Any UC kid reading this should check it out. Your first class is free. read more

Awesome instructor! They have helped my boys out with not only their Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling skills, but also their self confidence. I definitely recommend them to everyone. read more

Merced Mixed Martial Arts Academy - Muay Thai Near Me - Merced, California

We have been a part of the Merced MMA family for around 3 years now. It started with our older son when he was five, then my younger son when he was 4 and my husband even started to attend there too. We have been so blessed to have found this establishment. They have always treated us with nothing but respect, kindness, and love. I recommend them to family, friends and acquaintances by word of mouth all the time. If you're looking for somewhere to get high-quality training AND feel like you belong to something, THIS IS THE PLACE! read more

We have been with Merced MMA for about 7 years. Initially it was because my son was being bullied at school. I wanted him to learn self defense. Little did I know that going into this it would be much more. The MMA academy is a family, Marcos and Amy are great! All of the instructors are good with the kids. Dragon embraced my son since day 1 and is a mentor to him. I highly recommend Merced MMA. Not only have my 3 boys learned self defense, it helps with discipline, helps them be active and have respect for others. read more

My son struggled socially due to Covid lockdowns at a young age, which translated poorly when he started kindergarten, as he had trouble making friends which affected his confidence. Even after one class I saw a shift in his mindset. From his confidence to his self-talk and physical acuity, this kid has made a complete 180. Professor Marcos and the rest of the crew are incredible leaders, and exemplary with the kids. A perfect balance of kindness, patience and discipline. My sons life has changed and so has mine. Thank you to the whole team, you guys are appreciated immensely. If you're looking for a sign to join, this is it. read more

Merced Mixed Martial Arts Academy - Muay Thai Near Me - Merced, California

Great place to be! Great Instruction and staff is the best, all my classmates have been the best and I'm able to do both Muay thai and Bjj, will be here for the long run! read more

Professor Marcos and his team have been patient, caring, and professional. The place is clean and family friendly. My 9 year-old daughter loves Jiu Jitsu and even other children in the 6 pm class seem to be respectful and helpful with new kids in the class. Instructors lead by example here and the music is appropriate for children's age. read more

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Fantastic gym! My husband has been with them for years in jiu jitsu and kickboxing and he's loved training with them. I just now personably got involved with the gym and wanted to leave a review. I've been participating in the women's Brazilian Body Bootcamp/women's fitness class and love it. Marcos is a tough but encouraging instructor and always changes things up with our work outs. I was a little nervous to try this out since I wasn't regularly working out, but I'm so glad I did. They accept all levels of fitness and all of the other women in the class are so encouraging. They also offer kids classes so it's a family friendly gym. Marcos, Amy and all of their staff are great and I would highly recommend Merced MMA. Whether you're looking to get in shape or learn self defense, I would give them a try! read more

Been there five years and love it. The Jiu Jitsu is legit as well as the kickboxing. Everyone there is respectful and there to learn. From the moment you sign up and step on the mats everyone is helping you out with learning . They also have great kids classes too.. read more

in the gym twice during a visit to merced [day pass]. first rate facility. obvious knowledge, pride and respect from the members and staff. if you are looking for support with whatever goals you have [beginner/intermediate/advanced], this is the right gym read more