WCWMA Gallatin: A True Mixed Martial Arts System
At Ernie Reyes’ World Martial Arts – Gallatin, we teach a true Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) system—not just a collection of styles, but a fully integrated curriculum that produces well-rounded, versatile martial artists.
Our program combines the most effective elements of striking, grappling, weapons, and self-defense training. Whether you’re looking for practical skills, personal growth, or competitive performance, we help students of all ages and experience levels become confident, capable martial artists.
Why Our MMA Program Stands Out
Some schools teach only one discipline. Others added “MMA” to their programs more recently to follow the trend. At our school, we’ve been cross-training in multiple martial arts systems since the mid-1970s, back when the term “MMA” didn’t even exist.
We are proud to be part of the Ernie Reyes West Coast/World Martial Arts Association, one of the most respected martial arts organizations in the world. In fact, the world-renowned American Kickboxing Academy (AKA)—which has produced more MMA world champions than any other gym—originated from this association. We continue to train with many of their coaches, several of whom earned their Black Belts within our system.
Competition Experience That Builds Champions
Our curriculum is deeply rooted in real-world results. As a young fighter, I won an international full-contact championship. Many years later, I returned to competition and earned six medals at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championships and World Grappling Championships in the Black Belt and Expert divisions—including 1 Gold, 3 Silvers, and 2 Bronzes.
Several of our students have also excelled at the state and regional level:
• BKJN Matthew is a state champion in both forms and weapons in Sport Karate.
• BKJN Melissa, though not a tournament competitor, was the top overall tester among all 4th Degree Black Belt candidates at our most recent Mastery Test.
• BKJN Mike, a former collegiate football player and boxer, earned silver at the Tennessee State Grappling Championships.
Our school’s Sport Karate tradition is especially strong. I’ve personally won the Forms Grand Championship at a national championship, and that technical precision and creative expression continue to shape our training culture and expectations.
Weapons, Sport Karate & Reality-Based Self-Defense
KJN Sandy Hughes, a Top Ten world-ranked competitor in both Black Belt Forms and Weapons, brings decades of championship experience and precision to our team. She also occasionally teaches Close Quarter Combat (CQC) to Federal Agents, and is flown to Georgia to provide instruction to specialized units.
At the advanced level, our curriculum includes two nationally recognized Reality-Based Self-Defense systems:
• CDT/LRT, developed by Tom Patire and used by many federal law enforcement agencies
• LINXX, created by Frank Cucci, which served as the standard CQC system for Naval Special Warfare (SEAL Teams and DEVGRU)
We integrate age-appropriate techniques from these systems even at the beginner level, helping students develop practical self-defense skills from the start.
A System That Grows With You
Our martial arts program is designed to grow with the student—from kids’ classes focused on fundamentals to advanced training in striking, grappling, weapons, and real-world self-defense. Whether your goal is confidence, competition, or personal excellence, you’ll find a structured path to long-term success at WCWMA Gallatin.
We don’t follow martial arts trends—we helped pioneer them.
Start Training at WCWMA Gallatin Today
If you’re looking for a Mixed Martial Arts school in Gallatin, TN, or a kids martial arts program that teaches real skills, we invite you to experience the difference at Ernie Reyes’ World Martial Arts – Gallatin.
Proudly serving Gallatin, Hendersonville, Portland, and surrounding areas