
MattyIceMMA
About
About Me:
I am a Marine Corps Veteran that has a passion for teaching. It really gets me excited to see people grasp new concepts/techniques that they can apply to real life situatuons/competitions.
My Experience:
3x Amateur MMA Champion
Currently the striking coach at Gracie Tampa South, where we have fighters actively on the UFC roster.
Former Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor
Purple belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu with multiple "superfight" and tournament championship wins in the state of Florida.
I have won:
-Grappling Industries Championships
-Arte Suave Cup Championships
-Copa America Championships
3 Years of high school wrestling
3 Months of wrestling with the United States Marine Wrestling Team
1 Season of wrestling in college for the University of Tampa Club Team
Highlights
Photos and videos



No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I determine what specific skill they are trying to learn in Mixed Martial Arts. Once I understand what category of learning they are trying to improve, I run them through fundamental movements of that sport. I will then get a baseline for what they already do well, which we can build upon for competition, and what they fall short in, so we can correct if for future events.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor's degree in Human Performance, so I have an understanding of how to condition an athlete to their sport.
I have been trained to instruct martial arts by the United States Marine Corps, and I have instructed thousands of Marines. My experience in teaching goes a long way in one on one sessions.
I have a purple belt in Jiujitsu under Professor Matt Arroyo.
I have been actively competing in one discipline or another in martial arts since 2011.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For all martial arts training outside of Gracie Tampa South (If I come to you, or if you meet me at a public place)
$75/Hour
For all martial arts training done at Gracie Tampa South (waiver must be signed) *Includes resources like Heavy Bags, Crash Mats for throws, and a UFC size official MMA cage!
$150/Hour
How did you get started teaching?
I began my teaching journey during my service in the United States Marine Corps. I was the head instructor of our entire MEU which consisted of over 2,000 Marines and Sailors to which I was responsible for developing and overseeing their martial arts progression.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with all different types of students to include:
-MMA fighters
-Service Members
-Youth kids
-Teen kids
-Adults of all walks of life
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I teach a striking class every Tuesday night at 7PM, only at Gracie Tampa South! Come get a preview of my coaching style.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't fall in love with the end-goal of martial arts ability, work with someone who will teach you the fundamentals, and mental concepts of fighting. It is better to learn how traffic works before you drive :)
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The student needs to have SPECIFIC goals for what they are trying to achieve in their martial arts journey.