Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. And if you’re a fan of the UFC, you’ve probably thought about stepping into the gym to train like your favorite fighters. The Philippines has a growing MMA scene, with gyms that focus on striking, grappling, and overall UFC-style training. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get fit or an aspiring pro, there are some standout gyms you should know about.
Here’s a look at the top 5 MMA gyms in the Philippines that bring UFC-style training to fighters of all levels.
1. Team Lakay – Baguio City
No list of MMA gyms in the Philippines is complete without Team Lakay.
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Specialty: Known for wushu and striking-heavy MMA.
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Famous Fighters: Multiple ONE Championship champions, including Eduard Folayang. While Team Lakay fighters are primarily in ONE Championship, their training style is directly applicable to UFC-style MMA.
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Training Programs: Full MMA curriculum, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), wrestling, and strength conditioning.
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Why It’s Special: Their fighters are known for discipline, endurance, and technical precision—all essential for UFC-level competition.
Team Lakay has put Filipino MMA on the global map, and their gym environment emphasizes hard work, culture, and community, making it ideal for serious fighters and enthusiasts alike.
2. DEFTAC Philippines – Quezon City
DEFTAC Philippines has made a name for itself in the grappling and BJJ community, which is crucial for UFC-style training.
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Specialty: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No-Gi) and submission wrestling.
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Famous Fighters: Hosts several competitors who have fought internationally in MMA events.
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Training Programs: From beginner BJJ classes to advanced MMA sparring sessions. They also offer striking classes, making it a well-rounded MMA gym.
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Why It’s Special: UFC fights often end on the ground, and DEFTAC focuses on giving fighters the ground game skills to dominate inside the Octagon.
For fighters aiming to strengthen grappling and submission defense, DEFTAC is a must-visit gym in Metro Manila.
3. Elorde Boxing & MMA Academy – Metro Manila
The Elorde Boxing & MMA Academy merges traditional boxing roots with MMA techniques, perfect for fighters who want UFC-style striking.
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Specialty: Boxing-based MMA with focus on footwork, hand speed, and knockouts.
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Famous Fighters: Many amateur MMA fighters and boxers who cross-train in MMA.
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Training Programs: Boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, MMA sparring, and conditioning.
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Why It’s Special: Boxing is a cornerstone of MMA, and the Elorde Academy is known for technical striking and killer cardio.
If you dream of being a knockout artist like UFC strikers, this gym will help you develop the skills needed to stand out in the Octagon.
4. ALA Gym MMA Program – Cebu City
ALA Gym, historically famous for producing boxing champions, now offers a robust MMA program.
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Specialty: MMA training for fighters at all levels, blending striking and grappling.
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Famous Fighters: Local MMA fighters who have competed in regional promotions.
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Training Programs: Kickboxing, BJJ, wrestling, strength and conditioning, and MMA sparring.
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Why It’s Special: ALA Gym has a long-standing reputation for discipline and professionalism, making it ideal for both beginners and semi-pros in Cebu.
With its well-rounded curriculum, ALA Gym is a perfect option for fighters in the Visayas looking to train like a UFC athlete.
5. The MMA Lab Philippines – Taguig, Metro Manila
The MMA Lab Philippines is modeled after international MMA standards and focuses on creating fighters who are ready for high-level competition.
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Specialty: Full-spectrum MMA training (striking + grappling).
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Famous Fighters: Some local talents have transitioned to international promotions, including amateur and professional MMA competitions.
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Training Programs: Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, BJJ, MMA conditioning, and fight simulations.
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Why It’s Special: The MMA Lab emphasizes technique, fight IQ, and UFC-style preparation, making it ideal for those serious about going pro.
It’s one of the few gyms in Metro Manila that combines modern training methods with personalized coaching, allowing fighters to progress faster.
Tips for Choosing the Right MMA Gym
Finding the right gym is more than just picking the most famous name. Here are some tips:
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Training Goals – Are you aiming to get fit, learn self-defense, or become a professional fighter? Some gyms specialize in certain areas.
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Location – Consistency is key. Choose a gym you can regularly attend without hassle.
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Coaching Quality – Experienced coaches with professional fighting experience make a huge difference.
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Facilities & Equipment – Mats, bags, cages, and training gear matter for a safe, effective workout.
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Community & Environment – MMA training is tough. A supportive gym culture helps you stay motivated.
Final Thoughts
The MMA scene in the Philippines is thriving, and UFC-style training has never been more accessible. From Team Lakay’s elite discipline in Baguio to MMA Lab Philippines’ modern fight prep in Metro Manila, there’s a gym for every fighter—beginner or aspiring pro.
Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or stepping into the Octagon, these top 5 MMA gyms offer world-class training programs, experienced coaches, and the Filipino fighting spirit.
Step into one of these gyms, put in the work, and you’ll understand why the Philippines continues to produce some of the most passionate and talented MMA fighters in the world.
