Valhalla Jiu-Jitsu & MMA
About
Valhalla Jiu-Jitsu & MMA offers mixed martial arts training in Birmingham, AL with a focus on technical coaching and character development. The gym is led by owner and coach Stephen Owens, a BJJ brown belt with an amateur MMA record of 9-1, alongside coach Jonathan Dunaway. Their instruction emphasizes detailed skill explanation and safety, creating an environment where both local members and visiting drop-ins can develop their techniques effectively. The coaching staff is described as knowledgeable, accomplished, and deeply invested in student progress, providing world class instruction that translates directly to practical application during training rolls.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members praise the technical coaching and detailed instruction, with specific mention of coach Stephen Owens' detail oriented approach and investment in students. Reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere for both regular members and drop in visitors, noting how techniques learned here translate effectively to training at other gyms. Parents consistently appreciate the coaches' work with children, describing how they help kids progress in competitions while teaching discipline and life lessons. The overall sentiment emphasizes knowledgeable instructors who create a safe, supportive environment for all skill levels.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Brett
9 months ago
The instructors are knowledgeable and accomplished. My family has been coming for about nine months now and we try not to miss a class. Stephan and the others here have helped my kids reach another level proven in youth competitions. Get your kids into BJJ.
Erin Garrard
a year ago
I dropped in here while I was visiting town. They had a great class and were very welcoming! I've been able to work the techniques I learned in their class into my rolls at other gyms, thanks to the technical coaching they provided. I look forward to dropping in again soon!
Ericka Calderon
a year ago
My son has been going to Valhalla for a few months now and I have been thoroughly impressed. The coaches are great with kids and take their time to explain the skills in detail to ensure everyone is learning and doing it safely. The discipline and character building they teach is not only for class but can be implemented in real life situations. If you live anywhere near the area, I highly recommend you check them out. You won’t be disappointed.
David Frazier
a year ago
I was in the area on business and stopped in for a class. World class coaching and instruction. Coach Stephen was great very detail oriented and someone that really pours into his students. If you live close you need to check them out and if you are traveling stop by and get some training in, they will welcome you with open arms and then tap you out!
Amy Lynn
a year ago
The owner and other coaches are absolutely amazing. It is such a relief and gives me total peace of mind that I can take my 7 year old daughter here to learn, not only self defense, but life lessons in a controlled setting where the coaches actually care about their students.
Contact
81 Big Valley Dr Suite H, Alexandria, AL 36250, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:30 – 8:00 AM, 3:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:30 – 8:00 AM, 3:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 6:30 – 8:00 AM, 3:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Jonathan Dunaway
Coach
Started training in 2011. Trained under former pro kickboxer Chance Butts, former Bellator fighter Chris Davis, and UFC veteran Tim Creuder.
Stephen Owens
Owner/Coach
BJJ Brown Belt, Amateur MMA Record 9-1
Training, competing, and coaching since 2015. BJJ Brown belt under professor Todd Chapel. Former #1 ranked amateur Flyweight/Bantamweight in SE divisions.