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In the world of mixed martial arts, a few names stand above the rest. Not just fighters, but the gyms that build them. Jackson Wink MMA Academy, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of those rare institutions where legends are made and future champions are forged.
Jackson Wink has become more than just a training facility, but a hub where coaches, fighters, and ideas come together to shape the sport of MMA. In this guest post, MMA expert Kate Richardson takes a closer look at Jackson Wink and who the gym’s most dangerous fighters are in 2025.
The Core of Jackson Wink: Strategy, Skill, and Science
Jackson Wink MMA was founded in 1992 by Greg Jackson, after creating his own martial arts which he named Gaidojutsu. His long time friend and professional kickboxer, Mike Winkeljohn joined him in 2007. Together, they’ve built a program that focuses on tactical intelligence as much as raw physical ability.
”He’s the Einstein of MMA. The man’s a genius…:” said Georges St-Pierre when asked about Greg Jackson’s influence on his career.
The gym became famous for its tailored game plans, helping fighters exploit the smallest weaknesses in their opponents.
Why Fighters Flock to Albuquerque
Jackson Wink Academy does more than just coaching. The gym spans over 30,000 square feet and includes everything from full-size MMA cages to weight rooms and on-site athlete housing for fighters that stay a week or more for personalized training and sessions.
Fighters come from all over the world for High-altitude training that boosts endurance, since Albuquerque is the most elevated city in New Mexico. Fights also get multi-discipline instruction across Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and boxing. The mental coaching and tactical preparation from Greg Jackson isn’t left out either.
Together this combination creates a fighter that is well rounded and has increased endurance to last our fights.
“If you want to be a world champion, this is where you need to be,” said coach Mike Winkeljohn in a 2022 interview with ESPN MMA.
The Fighters Who Define Jackson Wink in 2025
Jackson Wink’s name is tied to some of the biggest fighters in MMA history. And in 2025, several top competitors continue to represent the gym’s legacy of dominance.
Jon Jones
With titles in both light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, Jon Jones is widely considered one of the greatest to ever enter the cage. His ability to adapt, combined with Greg Jackson’s strategic coaching, has helped him dominate opponents for over a decade.
Fighters like Jones with his massive 28-1 (1 NC) record are often featured in top betting markets, especially in high-profile title fights. Expert reviews at MightyTips show that online sportsbooks even give special bonuses during these high profile fights, to help you place more bets on the fight.
Holly Holm
Holly Holm shocked the world in 2015 when she knocked out Ronda Rousey with that head kick that is still replayed today. As a former boxing champion and now an experienced MMA fighter, she is the only fighter to have won a major world title in both professional boxing and MMA.
Michelle Waterson
Also known as “The Karate Hottie,” Michelle Waterson-Gomez is one of the most well-rounded female fighters in the UFC. With a mix of traditional martial arts and high-level grappling, She was previously ranked the number 1 atomweight fighter and has also appeared in numerous movies.
Aaron Pico
Aaron Pico, with a background in Olympic-level wrestling and powerful hands, has turned heads with his explosive performances. His training time at Jackson Wink helped improve his composure and defensive technique, two key areas that once held him back.
Jackson Wink doesn’t train only star fighters. Several prospects — like Christian Edwards, a Bellator light heavyweight with sharp striking and good footwork — are also training under them and could break through soon.
Conclusion
Jackson Wink MMA Academy is not just a part of MMA history — it’s still writing it. You can’t talk about the history of the MMA without mentioning the part Jackson Wink MMA Academy has played, and is still playing in it. The gym’s ability to blend strategy, elite training, and fighter development continues to set the standard in 2025.
From all-time greats like Jon Jones and Holly Holm to rising names like Aaron Pico and Christian Edwards, talents just keep on coming out of New Mexico, thanks to Jackson Wink Academy.
The article was provided by Kate Richardson