Brunson's MMA and fitness
About
Brunson's MMA and fitness offers comprehensive training in mixed martial arts, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai under the guidance of a highly credentialed coaching staff. The gym is led by owner Derek Brunson, a Renzo Gracie black belt, three-time NCAA All-American wrestler, and UFC veteran, supported by specialists including Golden Gloves boxing champion Dre Herd, D1 wrestling All-American Austin Trotman, professional kickboxer James Brown, and BJJ black belts Bryan Bartlett and Chris Fowler. This diverse expertise allows members to receive high-level instruction across all combat sports disciplines in a single facility.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the gym's welcoming atmosphere that accommodates all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced athletes. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and talented coaching staff, specifically mentioning instructor Bryan Bartlett as very cool and clearly talented. Parents appreciate the youth programs, flexible schedules that fit work hours, and comfortable waiting areas, noting their children have remained engaged for months. The clean, well-maintained facility fosters a positive community where members feel encouraged and supported in their martial arts journeys.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Brooke Watson
2 months ago
New to combat sports with no experience, they are extremely knowledgeable and allow all skill levels to train. I recommend if you are looking to test yourself and you want to learn from the best.
Spencer Witherington
10 months ago
Everyone was super friendly and knowledgeable. Bryan the instructor was very cool and clearly very talented. Would definitely go back as I was just a visitor 🔥
brenda george
2 months ago
My son loves being a member at this gym. All the teachers are welcoming and great with the Youth (all ages). There are several different classes he can attend, and the class schedule is flexible enough to fit my work hours. The gym also has a comfortable seating area for parents.
M. Denise Clark
2 months ago
We stumbled upon the kids' homeschool classes at Brunson's. My guys (daughter, 10, and son, 13) rarely stick with classes, but they've looked forward to going to Brunson's for several months now. The trainers are patient and encouraging, and the energy in the gym is so positive. After the first few months I expanded our membership to family level so I can work out while the kids do. It's a win/win for us! The gym itself is clean, in tip-top shape, centrally-located, and everyone there is working hard and enjoying it. We're always greeted with a smile and feel fortunate to be a part of this community!
Ulrika Nesbitt
2 months ago
I love this gym, Ive come a long way in my martial arts journey here and Im so grateful for all the kind people that go here aswell.
Contact
3500 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 7:00 – 8:00 AM, 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 – 8:00 AM, 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 3:30 – 4:30 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Derek Brunson
Owner / BJJ & Wrestling Coach
Black Belt under Renzo Gracie BJJ, 3x D2 NCAA All-American, UFC veteran
Professional MMA fighter in PFL, former UFC middleweight. Teaches BJJ NoGi and Wrestling.
Dre Herd
Striking Coach
Golden Gloves Boxing Champion, Pro MMA fighter
Striking coach for UFC fighter Derek Brunson. Teaches Striking, MMA, and Kickboxing & Muay Thai.
Austin Trotman
Wrestling Coach
D1 Wrestling All-American, 3rd place NCAA, Pro MMA fighter
Middleweight MMA fighter. Teaches Wrestling and Kids Wrestling.
James Brown
Kickboxing & Muay Thai Coach
Professional MMA & Kickboxer (Glory, BKFC), 2nd Dan Taekwondo & Hapkido Black Belt
Professional featherweight MMA fighter and kickboxer. Teaches Kickboxing & Muay Thai.
Bryan Bartlett
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Teaches Adults and Youth Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Gi and NoGi).
Chris Fowler
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
Earned black belt in 2022. Teaches BJJ for Adults and youth classes.