Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

About Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, situated in Nicholasville, Kentucky, provides comprehensive training in a range of martial arts. Led by Professor Rob Nickerson III, a third-degree black belt under Professor Jorge Gurgel through Master Sazinho Sa of SAS Team, the gym offers a welcoming environment for men, women, and children of all ages seeking to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, and mixed martial arts.

The facility has garnered recognition for its quality instruction, having been voted Best of Lexington for two consecutive years. This accolade reflects the gym's commitment to providing top-tier training in a supportive and challenging atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 150 Zoe Rd., Nicholasville, KY 40356, with an alternate address listed as 137 Eisenhower Court, Nicholasville, KY 40356, Reaction MMA is easily accessible to residents of Nicholasville and the surrounding areas. The gym's operating hours are Monday through Friday from 8 am to 10 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, providing ample opportunities for individuals to train at times that suit their schedules. Those interested in learning more can contact the gym at 859-913-2013 or via email at [email protected].

Training Programs and Classes

Reaction MMA offers a diverse array of training programs designed to cater to different skill levels and interests. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is a cornerstone of the gym, emphasizing both self-defense techniques and competition preparation. Classes are available for both adults and children, ensuring that individuals of all ages can benefit from the art of BJJ.

The kids' Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program stands out due to its high coach-to-student ratio, with 5-6 coaches, including two black belt instructors, providing personalized attention and guidance to each child. This ensures that young students receive the instruction and support they need to develop their skills and confidence on the mats.

The Muay Thai program at Reaction MMA incorporates a blend of striking techniques, including punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, offering students a well-rounded kickboxing experience. Boxing classes focus on developing fundamental boxing techniques, with sparring reserved for MMA training and designated sparring days.

The MMA program integrates all disciplines taught at the gym, providing experienced students a path to compete at the amateur and professional levels.

Coaches and Staff

Professor Rob Nickerson III leads the team at Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. As a third-degree black belt under Professor Jorge Gurgel through Master Sazinho Sa, Professor Nickerson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the gym. He has extensive competition experience, with 56 IBJJF medals and 31 IBJJF Open championships, and has achieved multiple top rankings in IBJJF seasons.

Coach Kristin Ford is another key member of the Reaction MMA team. As one of Kentucky's first female black belts, Coach Ford is a role model for aspiring female martial artists. She has achieved significant competition success, including an IBJJF PANs bronze medal, demonstrating her skill and dedication to the sport.

Achievements

Reaction MMA has a proven track record of success in both MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The gym has produced fighters who have competed in renowned organizations such as King of the Cage, XFC, RFA, and UFC. As of January 2024, the team boasts an impressive overall fight record of 158 wins and 42 losses.

The BJJ team has also achieved numerous championships in prestigious tournaments like AGF, NAGA, Newbreed, Fuji, and IBJJF. These accomplishments are a testament to the quality of instruction and the dedication of the students and coaches at Reaction MMA.

Reaction MMA is an IBJJF-certified academy, one of the few in Kentucky. This certification recognizes the gym's adherence to the high standards set by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, ensuring that students receive authentic and comprehensive BJJ training.

Focus on Competition

The gym has a strong focus on competition, with students and instructors regularly medaling in high-profile tournaments like IBJJF, ADCC, and Arnold Classic. This emphasis on competition helps students to develop their skills, test their limits, and achieve their full potential.

Youth Program

The youth program at Reaction MMA is one of the largest in the state, emphasizing technical drilling and skill building. This structured approach helps young students to develop a strong foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, while also learning valuable life skills such as discipline, respect, and perseverance.

Atmosphere and Community

Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all students. The gym promotes a sense of community, where individuals can train together, learn from each other, and build lasting friendships. The coaches and staff are dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and encouraged to achieve their goals.

The environment provides great training partners where students can train in a friendly environment. The coaches do a great job teaching and treating everyone with respect.

Summary of Training Offered

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Classes for adults and children, emphasizing self-defense and competition preparation. A high coach-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention for kids.
• Muay Thai: Incorporates punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, blending kickboxing techniques.
• Boxing: Focuses on technique development without sparring (sparring is reserved for MMA training and sparring days).
• Wrestling: Instruction and drills to improve takedowns and defense.
• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): Combines all aspects of martial arts for competition.

Key Highlights

• Led by Professor Rob Nickerson III, a highly experienced and decorated BJJ practitioner.
• Coach Kristin Ford, one of Kentucky's first female black belts, brings extensive competition success and expertise.
• Proven track record of producing successful fighters in King of the Cage, XFC, RFA, and UFC.
• The BJJ team has won championships in tournaments like AGF, NAGA, Newbreed, Fuji, and IBJJF.
• An IBJJF-certified academy, ensuring high-quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction.
• A strong focus on competition, with students and instructors regularly medaling in prestigious tournaments.
• One of the largest youth programs in the state, emphasizing technical drilling and skill building.

In Conclusion

Reaction MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers a comprehensive and rewarding martial arts experience for individuals of all ages and skill levels. With experienced instructors, a supportive community, and a proven track record of success, the gym is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, or mixed martial arts in Nicholasville, Kentucky.