Wrestling in MMA is a huge but often overlooked part of fighting, and it is particularly important when it comes to controlling the fight. The instructors at elite training center had the pleasure of working with a top wrestling trainer named Kenny Johnson last week. He has helped train many standout UFC stars in wrestling and it is not uncommon to see him cornering one of your favorite fighters. This was our second time training the techniques outlined in his BOLT wrestling program; each time we learn from him I leave the seminar with a brand new approach to how I can apply his high level wrestling to our MMA program at Elite Training Center.
To be honest I resisted fully applying myself to wrestling when I first started training mixed martial arts. I was so enthralled by jiu jitsu and Muay Thai that wrestling seemed like an afterthought. However, as I progressed I began to realize that while wrestling may not always be a way to finish a fight, it is the perfect weapon for controlling where the fight takes place. If you are a BJJ ace then being able to get a takedown so you can work from the top is important. Likewise if you are a striker then using your wrestling in MMA to counter opponents’ takedowns and control distance becomes a key strategy.
We have placed a heavy importance on proper form and technique for the wrestling in MMA program at Elite. Every class will teach a takedown in a safe way, with emphasis placed on a good pace for learning the technique through muscle memory. I personally felt like our seminar with Kenny Johnson changed the way I clinch and set up takedowns and I feel certain that I will be able to use these new ideas successfully in tournaments and fights in the future. Look out for some awesome new wrestling moves to be filtered into our MMA program soon. His insight changed the way I wrestle and I’m sure it will do the same for you.
~Travis Williams
Elite Training Center
1628 South Pacific Coast Highway,
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(310) 543-1600
www.elitetrainingcenter.net
