Head Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Greg Jackson
Background And Achievements
Coach Greg Jackson is a renowned mixed martial arts trainer and co-owner of Jackson Wink MMA Academy in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Widely regarded as the premier MMA training camp globally, Jackson Wink has produced numerous successful fighters under Coach Jackson’s guidance. His impressive roster of athletes includes former UFC champions such as Georges St-Pierre, Jon Jones, and Andrei Arlovski, along with many other professional MMA athletes and champions.
Origins And Martial Arts Journey
Born in Washington D.C. to Quaker parents Kris and Jim Jackson, Greg Jackson relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico at a young age. Coming from a family deeply rooted in wrestling, with his father, brother, and uncle all being champions in the sport, Jackson grew up in a challenging neighborhood that necessitated self-defense skills. This prompted him to pursue martial arts.
During his youth, Jackson’s involvement in fights ranged from occasional passivity to being an aggressor, resulting in school suspensions. In 1992, after graduating from Rio Grande High School, Jackson established his own martial art called Gaidojutsu. This unique style combined elements of wrestling, kickboxing, judo locks, grappling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and kickboxing. Over time, Jackson expanded and refined his art, transforming his school into an MMA-focused institution in 2000. In 2007, he joined forces with striking coach Mike Winkeljohn, and their collaboration led to the gym being named Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Notable Fighters And Contributions
Coach Jackson’s impact on the sport of MMA is exemplified by the remarkable fighters who have trained under him. His stable includes renowned athletes such as Donald Cerrone, Keith Jardine, Carlos Condit, Nate Marquardt, Shane Carwin, Clay Guida, Diego Sanchez, John Dodson, Diego Brandao, Michelle Waterson, and Holly Holm—a multiple-time boxing world champion in three weight classes.
Coach Of The Year And World MMA Awards
Greg Jackson’s exceptional coaching skills have earned him widespread recognition. He has been honored with three World MMA Awards, winning “Best Coach” and “Best Gym” in 2009, followed by the prestigious “Coach of the Year” award in 2010. These accolades reflect the high regard in which Coach Jackson is held within the MMA community.
Coach Greg Jackson’s profound influence and expertise have shaped the careers of numerous fighters, establishing him as one of the most respected and successful trainers in the world of MMA. His commitment to excellence, strategic approach to coaching, and ability to maximize the potential of his athletes have solidified Jackson Wink MMA Academy’s reputation as a premier destination for aspiring fighters seeking to achieve greatness in the sport.
Our World-Class
Coaching Team
The coaching staff at Jackson Wink MMA Academy comprises a highly skilled and dedicated group of trainers and instructors who possess a wealth of experience and expertise in various martial arts disciplines, providing comprehensive guidance and support to athletes of all levels.
Joey Villasenor
Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Bart Lujan
Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Alex Exsisto
Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Izzy Martinez
Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Joe Cruz
Coach at Jackson Wink MMA Academy.
Henry Barahona
Head Coach for Kids and Beginner MMA Classes.