MMA Classes in London
If you’re searching for MMA near me to improve your fitness, develop real-world self-defence skills, or compete at a high level, our expert coaches can help take your combat skills to the next level.
Conveniently located in Deptford, South East London, with easy access from London Bridge, Canary Wharf, and Greenwich, London Grapple welcomes MMA students of all levels - from complete beginners to experienced fighters.
MMA Classes: Structure
Whether you're looking to compete professionally or simply want to stay fit and empowered, our SE London-based MMA classes provide the perfect platform to challenge yourself and achieve your fitness goals.
Our MMA classes begin with drilling and end with some controlled sparring. It is at the coach’s discretion as to when you’re ready to begin sparring.
Mixed Martial Arts Classes at London Grapple
Fundamental MMA - fundamentals of shootboxing and wall work
MMA Shootboxing - various forms of striking into takedowns
MMA Wall Work - fighting against a wall or cage
MMA Grappling - grappling with strikes involved
MMA Striking - see Muay Thai classes for more details
Kit & Apparel
Mouth guard
MMA sparring gloves (domed 8oz MMA gloves)
Boxing gloves (12-16oz)
Shin pads (soft ‘sock style’ or ‘Thai style’)
Head guard and groin guard are optional (these are mainly required for shootboxing)
How To Get Started
Learn more about a few simple requirements before booking a free MMA trial class at London Grapple. As there is less striking in our ‘MMA Wall Work’ and ‘MMA Grappling’ classes, we’d recommend either of these for a trial session.
We do not provide or rent out kit, so please make sure to attend with MMA gloves and a gum shield at the very least.
Our first beginners MMA interclub was 🔥
We’ve developed this program to provide our fighters with the necessary experience before jumping into amateur fights. Check out the highlights!
The next interclub will be held in April.
Meet your MMA coach
Before joining London Grapple in 2022, Matt was the head coach and fight team instructor at SBG Manchester, a gym known for producing some of the UK’s top MMA talent.
He’s widely respected as one of the best MMA coaches in the UK, having trained fighters like 4x Cage Warriors world champion Jack Cartwright, UFC’s Davey Grant, Bellator’s Saul Rogers, and many more.
Matt’s no stranger to competition himself. He racked up a 20-11 professional MMA record, winning multiple domestic titles and even challenging for the Cage Warriors world title. Outside of MMA, he’s fought professional Muay Thai in Thailand (2005) and spent a year as a pro boxer (2012).
Right now, he’s one of the most active BJJ competitors in the world, with over 150 matches in 2023, making him the top-ranked male competitor for Grappling Industries worldwide.
Some of his biggest grappling achievements include:
Polaris veteran
3x IBJJF European medalist
British Open champion
With a lifetime of fight experience and elite-level coaching, Matt brings serious knowledge and energy to the team at London Grapple.
Challenge yourself
Searching for ‘MMA near me’? Try a free no-obligation class at London Grapple to experience world-class training.
FAQs
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No prior experience is necessary to join our MMA classes. Classes are open to beginner, intermediate, and advanced level students, with instruction tailored to each individual's skill level.
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MMA is one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide. It combines various forms of martial arts into one constantly evolving and effective fighting system.
It mainly incorporates techniques from striking (Boxing and Muay Thai) and grappling (such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and wrestling).
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In MMA classes, you'll learn a combination of striking and takedowns (shoot boxing) strategies for wrestling and striking against the cage (wall work) and grappling techniques specifically adapted to include striking (MMA Grappling).
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We are committed to creating a safe training environment where people of all abilities can enjoy the exciting and rewarding experience of training in MMA.
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You will need MMA sparring gloves, shin pads and a mouthguard; head guards and groin protection are optional but recommended. We do not provide equipment so you will need to bring your own.
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Yes, MMA classes offer a comprehensive workout that improves cardiovascular fitness, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Additionally, the techniques learned in MMA classes can be applied for self-defence purposes.
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Wear comfortable athletic attire, such as a T-shirt or a rash guard and shorts without zips, pockets, poppers and studs. Footwear must be worn when not on the mat.
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The frequency of attendance depends on your goals, schedule, and fitness level. Some people may attend classes several times per week for intensive training, while others may opt for a less frequent schedule.
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Our MMA classes include sparring, participation is optional and based on the student's comfort level.
Sparring allows students to practice techniques in a controlled environment against live opponents.
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Competing in MMA requires additional training, experience, and preparation beyond regular classes. If you're interested in competing, discuss your goals with our coaches to develop a plan for advancing your skills and entering competitions.
What People Say
Our MMA training videos on YouTube
Whether you're a seasoned MMA enthusiast or a newcomer curious about mixed martial arts, London Grapple videos available on our YouTube channel offer an insightful glimpse into the world of MMA.