Best MMA gyms in Portland
Thinking about stepping into MMA? It’s an exciting challenge—but with so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.
Are you preparing to compete, aiming to get in shape, or looking to refine your technique? Different gyms cater to different needs—some are built for elite fighters, while others welcome beginners and those focused on fitness and personal growth.
What really matters is knowing what to look for: expert coaching, structured classes, gym culture, and top-notch facilities. Every detail counts when it comes to finding the right gym.
Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to learn what you should consider when choosing the ideal MMA training ground. Let’s get started!
Top 3 MMA Gyms in Portland
Choosing the perfect MMA gym in Portland is a great step toward advancing your training! With so many options available, it’s key to find a place that aligns with your goals—whether that’s competing, getting in shape, or refining your technique.
Every gym has its unique vibe. Some focus on preparing elite fighters, while others create a welcoming environment for beginners or those looking to improve their fitness. It’s not just about the equipment or class schedules—it’s about the coaches, the culture, and the community that will inspire you to push harder every day.
Don’t leave it to chance—get out there and experience it for yourself! Try a class, talk to the trainers, and see where you feel inspired. The right gym is waiting for you to make that first move!
Straight Blast Gym Portland – BJJ & MMA Gym
Location: 1812 NE 43rd Ave, Portland, OR 97213
Number: +15032307924
Mon–Fri: 8 AM–9 PM
Sat–Sun: 10 AM–4 PM
Ratings (Plus 150 Reviews): 4.4
A Room Full of Quiet Killers
You won’t hear a lot of chest-pounding at SBG Portland. What you will find are calm, focused students—moving with intent, asking the right questions, pushing themselves without noise. The vibe here isn’t about proving toughness—it’s about building skill. Whether it’s a white belt absorbing their first concept or a seasoned athlete running details before a comp, the mat runs on mutual respect.
The Rolls Say Everything
You can tell a lot about a gym by how people roll. At SBG, rounds are smart and technical. People move with purpose. You’re not getting muscled or smashed for no reason. And if you make a mistake, someone will help you fix it—not punish you for it. It’s live, but it’s thoughtful. That kind of controlled intensity is rare—and it’s real here.
Teaching That Forces You to Think
The coaches here aren’t just showing moves—they’re teaching systems. Expect to be challenged mentally as much as physically. You’re going to get asked to troubleshoot, to understand timing, to solve problems—not just drill on autopilot. Whether it’s striking, jiu-jitsu, or MMA, everything fits into a broader method. And it works.
You’ll Know If It’s For You
This isn’t a “trial class and done” kind of gym. You’ll either feel it click—or you won’t. But if you’re someone who wants to train seriously, ask better questions, and grow as a martial artist over time, Straight Blast Gym Portland will meet you at that level. And raise it.
American Top Team Portland
Location: 7200 SE 92nd Ave unit e, Portland, OR 97266
Number: +15037741826
Mon–Fri: 11 AM–8:30 PM
Sat: 9:30 AM–2 PM
Sun: Closed
Ratings (Plus 80 Reviews): 4.8
You’ll Feel It in the Rounds
The first thing that hits you at ATT Portland isn’t the facility—it’s the intensity of the training. Live rounds are clean, technical, and competitive. You can tell this isn’t a gym where people coast. There’s pressure, timing, movement, and purpose in every exchange. Whether you’re striking, grappling, or doing full MMA, you’re not just moving—you’re adapting.
Technique That Doesn’t Skip Steps
The coaching here stays tight. Every class has structure, and every drill fits into something bigger. It’s not about running flashy pads or collecting submissions—it’s about building a system that holds up when it matters. Beginners get the fundamentals without shortcuts, and experienced athletes are constantly refining the details. The team isn’t here to babysit you, but they’re always locked in.
The Room Sets the Tone
This isn’t an ego-driven space, but it’s definitely a competitive one. People want to get better, and that energy is contagious. You’ll be pushed, but you won’t be isolated. Everyone in the room is grinding toward something—whether it’s a fight, a belt, or just a sharper version of themselves—and the culture respects that.
For the Ones Who Train With Intent
American Top Team Portland is a great fit if you take training seriously—whatever your level. This isn’t the place for passive workouts or half-effort sparring. But if you’re looking for a room that will challenge you to grow, technically and mentally, you’ll find your people here.
River City Warriors
Location: 14935 SW 72nd Ave, Tigard, OR 97224
Number: +15033608692
Mon–Fri: 12–9 PM
Sat: 9 AM–1 PM
Sun: Closed
Ratings (Plus 70 Reviews): 4.6
Feels Like Home, Trains Like a Fight Gym
There’s something grounded about River City Warriors. You walk in and people are focused, but not cold. You get greeted, not sized up. And once you start training, it’s clear: this gym is built on real martial arts—not hype, not flash, just skills that hold up under pressure.
From Muay Thai to Street-Smart Kali
The blend of disciplines here makes it stand out. Muay Thai is taught with an emphasis on form, power, and timing—clean mechanics, not just cardio drills. Then there’s Kali and self-defense training, which adds depth most gyms don’t touch. You’re not just learning how to fight—you’re learning how to move, read distance, and make decisions fast.
The People Make the Place
This isn’t a gym where beginners get steamrolled or forgotten. Everyone’s on the mat for their own reasons, and the coaches respect that. Whether you’re prepping for a fight or just trying to feel more capable, they meet you where you’re at—but expect you to work. The culture runs on mutual respect and shared goals.
Best For: Anyone Who Wants More Than Just a Workout
If you’re looking to train in a place that builds real skills, with real people, River City Warriors delivers. It’s for folks who want to learn how to strike, defend, and move with intent—and do it in a community that keeps it humble and sharp.
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