MMA Calgary: The Ultimate Guide to Calgary’s Exploding Fight Scene

If you’ve searched for “MMA Calgary”, you’re probably not just looking for directions to a gym. You’re here because something in you wants more. Maybe you’re a fighter. Maybe you’re a fan. Or maybe you’re curious about why Calgary has become one of Canada’s fastest-growing MMA cities.

This guide goes beyond Google Maps listings. We’re breaking down:

• The top MMA gyms in Calgary
• Local fight promotions
• How to get started training
• The rise of pro fighters from Calgary
• Calgary’s role in Canada’s MMA evolution
• Gear, merch, and where to plug into the scene

Let’s dive in.

🥋What Is MMA and Why Is Calgary All-In?

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combines disciplines like Muay Thai, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, and judo into one full-contact sport. While MMA gained mainstream attention through the UFC, its grassroots have always started in gyms; and Calgary has become a powerhouse city for growing MMA talent from the ground up.

Why Calgary?

• Deep wrestling and hockey culture = mental toughness
• World-class gyms and coaching
• Access to strong regional fight promotions
• Supportive fan base with real loyalty
• Affordable living compared to Vancouver or Toronto

Fighters here train hard, show up, and build real brands — and that’s why Calgary is on the rise.

🥊 Top MMA Gyms in Calgary

Here’s a breakdown of Calgary’s best MMA gyms — whether you’re looking to fight, train for fitness, or just learn the craft.

1. Champion’s Creed MMA

📍 SW & NW Calgary | championscreed.ca
Home to UFC vet Hakeem Dawodu, Unified MMA contender Ramil Kamilov, and rising star Mac Laursen. Offers MMA, BJJ, Muay Thai, wrestling, striking, and youth programs.

Champion’s Creed is arguably Calgary’s most complete MMA facility for aspiring professionals.

2. Alavanca MMA

📍 209 16 Ave NE | alavancayyc.com
Focused on BJJ, Muay Thai, and full MMA. Friendly environment, elite instructors, and a growing competition team. Known for its strong presence in Alberta tournaments and rising MMA talent.

3. Dunamis Martial Arts

📍 17th Ave SE | dunamismartialarts.com
Led by ONE Championship veteran Jake Peacock, Dunamis focuses on elite striking (Muay Thai and boxing) with expanding MMA crossover. Clean facility, pro energy.

4. MMA University

📍 Aero Drive NE | mmauniversity.ca
A massive training space offering MMA, boxing, BJJ, and youth classes. Popular among beginners and amateur-level fighters looking to level up.

5. Arashi-Do Calgary

📍 Multiple locations | arashido.com
Well-known in Western Canada for traditional martial arts, with strong BJJ and striking programs. Great for cross-training and discipline-based foundations.

🧠 How to Start MMA in Calgary (Beginner Friendly)

If you're brand new to MMA in Calgary, here's how to get started without feeling overwhelmed:

Step 1: Choose a Gym Near You

Use the gym list above, and book a trial class. Most Calgary MMA gyms offer first class free or discounted intro weeks.

Step 2: Start with the Basics

You don’t have to jump into full MMA sparring. Start with:

• Muay Thai or Boxing for striking
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for grappling
• Wrestling or movement drills to build coordination

Step 3: Show Up Consistently

Forget the six-pack. Focus on showing up. Calgary gyms are built on community, and progress happens faster when you’re consistent.

💥 MMA Promotions in Calgary

One of the reasons Calgary is rising in the MMA world is the growth of regional fight promotions that showcase homegrown talent.

🥇 Unified MMA

Canada’s premier regional promotion. Hosts pro cards in both Edmonton and Calgary. Broadcast on UFC Fight Pass. Fighters like Ramil Kamilov, Nick LeBlanc, and Stephanie De Maio have appeared here.

🥈 Rumble in the Cage (Lethbridge-based, but often features Calgary fighters)

One of Alberta’s longest-running promotions. Great stepping stone for amateurs turning pro.

🥉 Sub-only & BJJ Tournaments

Organizations like Submission Series, Alberta Jiu-Jitsu Association (AJJA), and Smoothcomp-hosted events help build the grappling side of MMA.

🧢 Gear Up: Where to Find MMA Apparel in Calgary

While big brands exist, Calgary fighters are building their own gear brands — and fans are loving it.

Best Local Brand: NorthBlood

We design official fighter merch for Canadian MMA athletes, including:

• Hoodies, rashguards, tees, and walkout shirts
• Custom graphics for each fighter’s story
• Limited drops tied to fight weeks

Shop the latest here: NorthBlood Merch

Other places to gear up:

• Southpaw Sports: Gloves, pads, shin guards
• Elite MMA Fitness (for boxing and general gear)
• Amazon Canada (last resort, honestly)

👊 Calgary Fighters to Watch

1. Hakeem Dawodu

UFC veteran and Calgary legend. Known for sharp Muay Thai and fight IQ. Represented Calgary on the global stage.

2. Ramil “Mr. Real Deal” Kamilov

Undefeated Unified MMA fighter. Based out of Champion’s Creed. Known for crisp boxing, solid wrestling, and a no-nonsense mentality.

3. Mac “Big Mac” Laursen

Featherweight with heavy hands and growing hype. Fast reflexes, clean striking, and big heart. Future prospect to watch.

4. "Slick" Nick LeBlanc

Technical, aggressive, and always ready. Nick has dealt with multiple last-minute pullouts and continues to show up sharp. Deserves more eyes.

5. Stephanie “Action Barbie” De Maio

Aggressive, flashy, and proud to represent Alberta. Brings a huge crowd. Fights like a pro, markets like a star.

📈 Why Calgary Is the Future of Canadian MMA

• Infrastructure: The gyms, coaches, and systems are already in place.
• Fighter pipeline: Calgary is producing serious talent — and it’s just beginning.
• Promotional attention: With UFC Fight Pass cards happening here, the exposure is real.
• Merch and branding: Fighters here are building brands, not just records.
• Community loyalty: Fans show up. They buy gear. They support.

If you’re in Canada and want to train, fight, or follow real MMA: Calgary is the city to watch.

🧭 Quick Links for Calgary MMA

Topic	Link
Gyms	Champion's Creed, Alavanca, Dunamis, MMA University
Promotions	Unified MMA, Rumble in the Cage
Gear	Shop NorthBlood
Fighter Merch	Browse by Fighter
BJJ Tournaments	Smoothcomp Canada

🩸 MMA Lives in Calgary

Whether you're getting in the ring, walking into your first class, or just buying the hoodie to support someone you believe in: MMA in Calgary is alive and thriving.

NorthBlood is proud to be part of it. We don’t just make merch. We back fighters, tell their stories, and build Canadian MMA from the ground up.

🩸 Explore fighter gear, follow local talent, and represent Calgary MMA.