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Trying the Rest, But in the End Choosing the Best: 25 Years of Excellence at Greenville Academy Mixed Martial Arts

Trying the Rest, But in the End Choosing the Best: 25 Years of Excellence at Greenville Academy Mixed Martial Arts

In life, we often try different paths before finding the one that truly delivers. Whether it’s restaurants, gyms, or even hobbies, the search for quality and authenticity can feel like trial and error. When it comes to martial arts training in Greenville, NC, many people have “tried the rest.” But for the past 25 years, there’s been one constant truth: the best choice has always been Greenville Academy Mixed Martial Arts.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded over two decades ago, Greenville Academy has stood the test of time by offering world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). While other gyms have come and gone, our academy has remained strong, training thousands of students—men, women, and children alike—and helping them reach their goals, whether fitness, competition, or personal growth.

Why We Are the Best

  • Authentic Instruction: With roots tracing directly back to Helio Gracie through Professor Luiz Palhares, our lineage is pure, traditional, and authentic. You’re not just learning techniques—you’re learning the art in its truest form.

  • Proven Experience: 25 years in Greenville speaks volumes. Our commitment to the community and our students is unmatched.

  • Diverse Programs: From BJJ to MMA to Muay Thai, we provide training for all levels—beginners, competitors, and those simply looking to improve health and confidence.

  • Family Atmosphere: We pride ourselves on creating an environment that feels like home. Students encourage each other, push one another, and celebrate each victory together.

More Than a Gym—A Community

For us, martial arts is not just about punching, kicking, or grappling—it’s about building character, discipline, confidence, and resilience. Over the last quarter-century, we’ve seen kids grow into adults on our mats, families train side by side, and countless lives transformed through the power of martial arts.

The Difference is Clear

You might try other places, but when it comes down to results, tradition, and trust, Greenville Academy Mixed Martial Arts stands above the rest. After 25 years of serving the Greenville area, we are proud to say:
👉 You’ve tried the rest—now train with the best.

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Choosing the Right Mixed Martial Arts and Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Choosing the Right Mixed Martial Arts and Jiu-Jitsu Academy

In today’s world, martial arts schools are everywhere. From strip malls to garages, it seems like anyone can open a gym and call themselves a coach. But here’s the truth—choosing the right Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) or Jiu-Jitsu academy is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your martial arts journey. Your choice will directly impact not only your skill development but also your safety, growth, and long-term success.

At Team GAMMA, we understand this better than anyone. With 25 years of history in the fight game, we’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference a well-qualified instructor and proven system make.

Why Instructor Experience Matters

When it comes to training, not all instructors are created equal. The internet has made it easy for anyone to print a certificate or claim experience. That’s why it’s crucial to do your homework and ask questions like:

  • What is your instructor’s record?

  • What level of competition has their team achieved?

  • Do they have a proven track record of long-term success?

These aren’t just surface-level questions—they’re essential. A coach who has never tested themselves in real competition may not be equipped to guide you through the grind of training, much less prepare you for success.

Team GAMMA’s Proven Pedigree

At Team GAMMA, our instructors aren’t just teachers—they’re competitors who have lived what they teach. Our head instructor, Jay Speight, has been training since the age of six years old. With a 12-2 amateur MMA record and an undefeated professional MMA career, Jay brings real-world fight experience to every class he leads.

But Jay isn’t the only success story. Over the past two and a half decades, Team GAMMA has produced many fighters and Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who have competed at high levels, both inside the cage and on the mats. When you train with us, you’re learning from seasoned professionals who know how to win and—more importantly—know how to teach.

The Difference Between Short-Term and Long-Term Success

One of the biggest mistakes people make is focusing only on the “highlight reel.” An instructor might have one or two standout fighters, but what about the team as a whole? What about their ability to build students from the ground up and keep them progressing for years?

At Team GAMMA, we don’t just create short-term flashes of success—we build champions for the long haul. With over 25 years of consistent results, our academy is proof that dedication, experience, and leadership matter.

Train Smart, Choose Wisely

If you’re serious about your martial arts journey—whether for self-defense, competition, or personal growth—you owe it to yourself to train under proven leadership. Don’t settle for the first school you come across. Ask the hard questions. Look at the track record. And remember: your time and safety are worth investing in the best.

At Team GAMMA, we’re proud of the legacy we’ve built and the students we continue to guide. Whether your goal is to step into the cage, compete on the mats, or simply grow in confidence and fitness, our team is here to take you there the right way.

Team GAMMA – 25 Years of Proven Excellence in MMA and Jiu-Jitsu.

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Team GAMMA White Belt Tournament January 26th 2019 All Matches

Team GAMMA, Greenville Academy of Mixed Martial Arts, White belts Competed in the In House White Belt Tournament Combat Club. Jacksonville NC…… Greenville Academy of Mixed Martial Arts is a Full-Service Martial Arts Academy Specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts… Team GAMMA has been training top level athletes for 20 years..

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Friday Night With Jay Speight

Friday Night With Jay Speight

This Friday at our open mat at 6pm will be the 3rd week of Friday Night with Jay Speight, and so far each Friday our numbers are getting bigger and bigger. This I a free event and everyone is invited to come and train with Jay Speight… it is a no-gi training but if you want to bring you Gi that is ok too…this I a event you don’t want to miss… bring a friend….

if you do not know who Jay Speight is, well he has been training in Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since he was 6 years old, have competed extensively, has a Undefeated professional record in mixed martial arts….

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Master Luiz Palhares Seminar

September 20, 2018 6PM Master Luiz Palhares will be at our academy in Greenville NC to teach a Gracie Jiu-jitsu seminar.

Master Palhares started training in Rio De Janeiro in 1977 at the age of 18 under the legendary Rolls Gracie, received his purple under Rolls Gracie, after Rolls Death he continued his training under Rickson Gracie and was promoted to black belt in 1984 by Rickson Gracie’s father Grand Master Helio Gracie. Currently he is an 8th degree White and Red belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. He received the White and Red belt in 2018 by Grand Master Carlos Robson Gracie, Red Belt 9th Degree (President of the Jiu-Jitsu Federation of Rio de Janeiro).

Everyone is welcome to attend. 
Cost $60

 

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