Jackson Wink Academy

MMA Jackson Wink MMA Academy Cover illustration

Jackson Wink MMA Academy, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the most strategic and technically advanced fight camps in MMA history. Co-founded by Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn, the academy is known for developing highly cerebral fighters with game plans tailored for each opponent. It blends wrestling, kickboxing, BJJ, and cage control into an adaptive system that maximizes fight IQ. Home to champions like Jon Jones, Holly Holm, and Carlos Condit, Jackson Wink has earned a reputation for elite coaching and innovation. The gym remains a hub for fighters seeking precise preparation and a path to the top.

Jackson Wink Academy Essentials

Jackson Wink Academy Karate

Learn what sets Jackson Wink apart as a premier MMA institution—its emphasis on tactical mastery, individualized coaching, and a fusion of striking and grappling disciplines. This section introduces the core identity of the academy.

Jackson Wink Academy History

Explore the evolution of Jackson Wink from Greg Jackson’s small gym to an international MMA powerhouse. Learn how its merger with Mike Winkeljohn’s striking school created a legendary coaching partnership.

Philosophy & Approach

Jackson Wink builds fighters through structure, adaptability, and mental preparation. Discover how game planning, fight IQ, and technical precision form the foundation of their approach.

Techniques & Style

Dive into the unique blend of techniques used at Jackson Wink—sharp kickboxing, unpredictable angles, wrestling transitions, and cage tactics. This section showcases how their fighters control space and tempo.

Traditions & Etiquette

Respect, humility, and discipline define the gym culture at Jackson Wink. Learn how fighters are expected to train with focus, support teammates, and embody professional conduct.

Uniform & Symbols

Athletes wear customized no-gi gear featuring the iconic JW logo. This section covers the visual identity of the gym, from training apparel to branding in major promotions.

Weapons

Jackson Wink is fully MMA-focused and does not include weapon training. The emphasis is on unarmed striking, grappling, and integrated combat systems for cage fighting.

Ranking System

There is no belt system for MMA at Jackson Wink, though BJJ ranks are respected within grappling sessions. Fighter development is measured through technical growth and competitive readiness.

Jackson Wink Academy Glossary

Understand the gym’s terminology—from coaching cues and cage control concepts to unique drills and position names used during live sparring and fight prep.

Notable Figures

Meet Jackson Wink legends like Jon Jones, Holly Holm, and Donald Cerrone. This section highlights the fighters whose careers were shaped by the academy’s expertise.

Branches & Organizations

Learn about Jackson Wink’s expansion efforts and training affiliations, including international fighters and satellite camps. Discover how the gym influences global MMA development.

Competitive Format

Jackson Wink fighters compete primarily in UFC and top-tier leagues. This section details how they prepare for five-round wars, title fights, and stylistic matchups at the elite level.