American Kickboxing Academy
The American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) is one of the most successful and influential MMA gyms in the world, known for producing multiple UFC champions. Located in San Jose, California, AKA blends elite-level wrestling, striking, and conditioning in a highly competitive training environment. Founded by former kickboxer Javier Mendez, the gym became home to legendary fighters like Cain Velasquez, Daniel Cormier, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Islam Makhachev. With a reputation for disciplined structure, wrestling dominance, and strategic fight preparation, AKA continues to shape the global MMA landscape. Its athletes are renowned for their relentless pressure, grappling control, and mental toughness.
American Kickboxing Academy Essentials
About American Kickboxing Academy
Get to know what makes AKA a powerhouse in MMA training. This section introduces the gym’s training philosophy, coaching team, and its role in shaping champions across multiple weight classes.
American Kickboxing Academy History
Explore the rise of AKA from a kickboxing-based gym to a global MMA institution. Learn how Javier Mendez and key athletes turned it into one of the sport’s most respected training hubs.
Philosophy & Approach
AKA emphasizes wrestling control, pressure-based fighting, and strategic preparation. Discover how the gym blends mental toughness, teamwork, and conditioning to produce elite-level fighters.
Techniques & Style
Dive into AKA’s technical blueprint—dominant cage wrestling, top control, ground-and-pound, and efficient striking setups. See how the style adapts to different opponents and weight classes.
Traditions & Etiquette
Respect for coaches, hard work, and team loyalty define AKA’s culture. This section explains how gym etiquette shapes daily training and the identity of its fighters.
Uniform & Symbols
AKA fighters typically train in rash guards, shorts, and wrestling shoes, often featuring the gym’s red-black logo. Explore how team branding and fight gear reflect pride and identity.
Weapons
As a modern MMA gym, AKA focuses on unarmed combat. Weapons are not part of the curriculum—emphasis is on striking, wrestling, and submissions under unified MMA rules.
Ranking System
AKA does not use traditional belt rankings for MMA. Progress is measured by performance in sparring, competition, and coach evaluation, especially in grappling and striking ability.
American Kickboxing Academy Glossary
A glossary of key terms used at AKA—covering wrestling drills, sparring jargon, MMA strategy codes, and internal training language used by coaches and fighters.
Notable Figures
Meet the legends of AKA—Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, Cain Velasquez, and Islam Makhachev. This section honors their legacy and ongoing influence in the sport.
Branches & Organizations
While the San Jose HQ remains the core, AKA has affiliated branches and global outreach programs. Learn how the gym expands its methods internationally through seminars and partnerships.
Competitive Format
AKA fighters primarily compete in promotions like UFC and Bellator. This section breaks down how they prepare for five-round wars, weight cuts, and the mental demands of elite MMA.
