Derby City MMA Introduce
Derby City MMA is a renowned and well-established gym located in Louisville, Kentucky, and it is a true pillar of the local combat sports community. Unlike a general-purpose fitness center, this gym is a specialized training facility dedicated to a wide range of martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, Muay Thai, wrestling, and mixed martial arts. For Kentuckians, especially those in the Louisville area, Derby City MMA is more than just a place to work out; it's a place to learn self-defense, build discipline, and become part of a supportive and respectful community. With a history stretching back to 1999, it proudly stands as the longest-running MMA gym in the city to remain in the same location. This longevity is a testament to its quality of instruction and its commitment to its members. The gym's reputation is built on the expertise of its coaches, particularly its head instructor, Nick "Chewy" Albin, a well-known figure in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community. For anyone looking to seriously train in martial arts, improve their fitness, or just try something new in a professional and welcoming environment, Derby City MMA is an exceptional choice that has consistently delivered results and a sense of camaraderie for decades.
The location and accessibility of Derby City MMA make it a convenient destination for a large part of the Louisville metropolitan area. Located at 8021 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40258, USA, the gym is situated on a major thoroughfare, making it easy to find and access. The gym is committed to ensuring its facility is welcoming to everyone, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This inclusivity is a vital part of its mission to serve a diverse community of aspiring martial artists and fitness enthusiasts. The on-site services and the location on Dixie Highway make it a simple commute for individuals coming from various neighborhoods within and around Louisville. A review from a group of out-of-town visitors highlighted the ease of access and the warm hospitality they received, noting that the location was great for a drop-in class. The combination of a prime location and thoughtful accessibility features ensures that the gym is a practical and welcoming choice for new members and visitors alike, from individuals seeking a personal fitness routine to groups looking for a unique and fun activity.
Derby City MMA provides a comprehensive array of services that cater to all levels, from complete novices to seasoned professionals. The gym's specialization in combat sports allows it to offer highly structured and effective training programs. The variety of disciplines available under one roof is a major draw for people in Kentucky who want to cross-train or simply explore different forms of martial arts. The gym is well-known for being "good for kids," providing a safe and positive environment for children to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and other disciplines, which helps build confidence and discipline from a young age. The quality of instruction is a recurring theme in reviews, with members and visitors consistently praising the coaches' level of detail and dedication. The following is a detailed list of the services and programs offered at Derby City MMA:
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), including specialized classes for kids.
 - Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) training for all levels.
 - Kickboxing classes focused on striking techniques.
 - Muay Thai, for those interested in the art of eight limbs.
 - Freestyle Wrestling, covering grappling and takedowns.
 - Strength Training programs to enhance overall physical performance.
 - Boxing classes for fitness and technical skill development.
 
The features and highlights of Derby City MMA are what truly set it apart from other gyms in the Louisville area. The most significant highlight is the quality of the coaching staff, particularly head instructor Nick "Chewy" Albin. As a recognized figure in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community with a popular YouTube channel, his expertise and personable approach are a major draw. A customer who followed Chewy for years on YouTube described their first class as "EPIC," praising the "level of detail he goes over" and calling the entire experience fantastic. The gym's community is another key feature. As one review put it, "Everyone training is respectful and puts in the work," creating a positive and motivating environment that encourages growth. The gym is also noted for being "very clean and organized," which is a crucial aspect of any training facility. The availability of a professional administrative staff, like Trish, who is described as "awesome and very professional," ensures that the gym runs smoothly and members' needs are met efficiently. This combination of top-tier coaching, a respectful training environment, and a professional operation makes Derby City MMA a standout choice for anyone in Kentucky looking for a serious and welcoming place to train. The gym's ability to host out-of-town visitors for drop-in classes also highlights its reputation and hospitality, making it a welcoming place for a variety of people, from local residents to those on a bachelor party.
For individuals interested in joining the Derby City MMA community, the contact information is readily available and easy to use. The gym’s address is 8021 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40258, USA. This location is central and easy to find for anyone in the area. To speak with staff or inquire about memberships, you can call (502) 937-8797, or use the mobile phone number +1 502-937-8797. The gym is known for its fast response to online inquiries and for its professionalism, as noted in a customer review that received a "fast response with a trial class appointment." This proactive communication is a testament to the gym's commitment to new and prospective members. Since a membership is required, making initial contact to discuss options, try a class, and find the right program is a crucial first step. The clear and accessible contact details demonstrate that Derby City MMA is a professionally run business that values open communication and customer service, making it easy for anyone in Kentucky to begin their training journey.
What makes Derby City MMA worth choosing for your fitness and martial arts journey in Kentucky? The reasons are rooted in its long-standing reputation, expert coaching, and supportive community. Unlike a large commercial gym, Derby City MMA provides specialized instruction in a variety of combat sports, ensuring that every workout is productive and purpose-driven. The expertise of coaches like Nick "Chewy" Albin is a major draw, offering a level of detail and knowledge that is hard to find elsewhere. The gym is also a place where you can feel confident and safe, as the community is described as respectful and hard-working. This welcoming environment is particularly important for beginners and women, who may feel intimidated by martial arts. Furthermore, the gym is explicitly "good for kids," providing a structured and positive outlet for young people to build discipline and self-confidence. The cleanliness, professional administration, and convenience of accepting credit and debit cards all contribute to a seamless experience. For anyone in the Louisville area who is serious about training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, or other combat sports, Derby City MMA is not just a gym; it's a dedicated institution with a proven track record of helping people achieve their goals and become better versions of themselves, both on and off the mat.
Derby City MMA Services
Boxing Gym
- Brazilian jiu-jitsu
 - Strength Training
 - Mixed Martial Arts
 - Kicboxing
 - Kids Brazilian jiu-jitsu
 
Derby City MMA Details
Service options
- Onsite services
 - Online classes
 
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
 - Wheelchair accessible parking lot
 
Amenities
- Restroom
 
Planning
- Membership required
 
Payments
- Credit cards
 - Debit cards
 - Credit cards
 
Children
- Good for kids
 
Derby City MMA Photos
Derby City MMA Location
Derby City MMA
8021 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40258, USA
Derby City MMA Reviews
BJJarealearnmatsclassesblack beltsculturetowncontractdesk
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Been looking forward to training at this famous location since I've follow Chewy for years on YT. Let me tell you: "It's EPIC" I contacted the gym online and got a fast response with a trial class appointment.The gym is very clean and organized.Trish is awesome and very professional.I was lucky to have my first class with Chewy and the level of detail he goes over is awesome.Everyone training is respectful and puts in the work.Lots of great coaches and training partners.I signed up immediately. I'm 2 weeks at Derby City MMA and looking forward to future training sessions.
April 23 · Dominic SchroederWe were a group of 5 that dropped in from out of town for a batchler party. Chewy was great! We had a great class and many rounds while we were there. Chewy is super personable and was great to be around. The class was fun and I definitely recommend this gym if you're from the area or are from out of town. Such a great experience! Thank you Chewy for your hospitality!!🤙
June 13 · UncleJGood school but I would advise anyone thinking of joining the gym to not sign a contract. They have all kinds of ploys to get you to pay more money. I would sign up for one month at an introductory price. If they can't offer that at a good price, I would walk away. Absolutely do not sign a contract.
August 08 · I EHonestly, I came in excited to learn and improve, but unfortunately my experience at Derby City MMA was really disappointing. As sorta a beginner, I expected at least some guidance or structure - instead, we were basically left to teach ourselves or follow other students. The instructor barely engaged with new people and we actually never even interacted and it felt more like a free-for-all than an actual class people pay for.I'm not someone who needs to be handheld, but when you're paying for professional instruction, there should be some actual teaching involved - especially for people who want to build good fundamentals.There might be value here for experienced fighters who already know what they're doing, but I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking to learn or improve from scratch. A little coaching and direction goes a long way, and I didn't get that here.
June 12 · Ben shellmanWas in the area and asked if I could drop in for a class and they said come on in! Great staff, great instruction and cool people to roll with if you live in that area or are passing through hit them up it will be worth your time. Definitely my home away from home when I am in that area!UPDATE: 1/16/2023 Dropped in again and had a blast! I standby the original review and comments if you are in the area contact them!12-22-23 I’ve been to Derby City 5 times now and it’s a great place to visit don’t skip it go get some training in!
March 12 · Timothy Shindle
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