Williams Academy of MMA

One of the best gyms I've been to. Not intimidating if you're a newbie to MMA but also lots of resources if you've been in the game for awhile. Corey is the owner and will work with whatever needs/schedule you have.

I took a womens self defense class here during the summer time and it was incredibly helpful! Corey makes all of his students feel welcomed and heard. He listens to all of his students needs, while encouraging everyone to push themselves. What stood out to me most about this class was how Corey emphasized that the real world is unpredictable; you won’t be able to have a perfect response to someone’s attack every time. Yet, Corey pushed his students to apply several different tactics taught in the class to unpredictable situations. He taught his students the physical, emotional AND mental tools that are necessary to get out of an attack - I felt this was such a vital part of learning self defense. I definitely recommend anyone to take one of Corey’s classes - they’re fun, affordable, a good workout and you learn so much along the way.

First and foremost, this place is not a gym like some other places are touting. I would join a 24 Hour Fitness if I wanted that. Immediately I realized this place is an MMA "gym" - distinctive MMA classes on learning mixed martial arts. If I want to get my hair cut or trimmed, I don't go to the local CVS and buy hair products.As a female, I now have "tools" to better protect myself. I know nothing can guarantee my safety but Corey was very specific about how and why what was being taught. After taking the women's classes, here's what impressed me and why I enjoyed classes: Corey paces each student, and seemed to tailor his classes to me, while giving the other females equal, fair attention and support.When my husband urged me, I was extremely hesitant. As a medical professional, my schedule is more often than not, ad hoc. Moreover, I was interested but didn't know if I could actually go through with MMA classes. I had preconceived and incorrect assumptions having watched UFC fights when my husband watches. In retrospect, after learning from Williams MMA Academy on potentially real life attacks, and helping me get familiar with a "dangerous" setting, I made the right choice. If you're considering, just give it a try. I loved the experience and lessons.

I have been associated Williams MMA for many years starting with my son. He graduated with a black belt and went off to college. My wife and I started physical exercise/strength training a few years ago. We feel he has been a great help for our son and more for my wife and I as we get older to support our strength and health overall. I would recommend his dojo to any one foe kids and adults.Olin Scott

Such a positive environment. I was going here a lot pre-pandemic, and have been meaning to leave a review for a while. I don't know if Corey (the owner) just has a knack for bringing out the best in people or what, but this place is a fantastic community. I've grown to know him as not just an MMA mentor, but also as a friend. I also don't know if Andy is still there, but Andy is a great BJJ instructor, and was always very welcoming to his students.I did wrestling in high school, so it was really cool to find a community in Orange County where I could safely practice grappling again. I also got a chance to learn and practice my striking and boxing game, which I had never done in my life (and learned that I loved). I always felt welcome and accepted.I have since moved up north, but I'll always love this gym. Best MMA community in Huntington Beach, in my opinion.

Wiliams MMA is without a doubt the best martial arts studio in Orange County. At first, I was skeptical about enrolling my 7-year old son, because he is a shy kid, and I was concerned that the hands-on experience of MMA would be too aggressive or too far out of his comfort zone (my daughter had a bad experience elsewhere and never went back). My son is now 12 and he loves every minute of it, especially the grappling. Sensei Corey is excellent with children and knows just how to get them motivated to learn and eventually spar with others. My son is still shy, but he is not shy about getting in there and sparring and learning how to take a punch or a kick. He has grown as an MMA student and as a person. It has also translated into making him a more assertive and thoughtful kid all around. I credit Sensei Corey and Sensei Tim for being great instructors and building an atmosphere where kids can feel safe and find joy in this incredible sport. I completely vouch for this academy and encourage anyone of all ages to train here. You will love it!

Very friendly and informative instructor!Corey is amazing and made me feel super welcomed despite my 0 experience in mma! I was only there for about 2 months but I could already feel improvement, especially in grappling.Would 100 recommend!!

Corey offers a well rounded curriculum of martial arts and self defense. He also is able to work around your specific needs and limitations which lends itself to advancing at your own pace. Plus it is a great work out and a great feeling of community!

I just completed the 6 week women's self defense class and it was an excellent experience. Corey made adjustments for medical needs and met each of us where we were at with our fighting experience (most of us near 0). He patiently explained and re-explained as needed in a friendly, nonthreatening way, while simultaneously gradually pushing and challenging us to improve and think on our feet. There was a great balance of having fun in the learning process while taking the danger of a potential confrontation very seriously. At the end of the 6 weeks, I am by no means a pro fighter, but have definitely greatly improved my form, strategy, and fast thinking to adapt to a variety of situations. Thanks for a great course!!

Having never done martial arts in my life, I was scared to try it out. Corey made me feel welcome, was not overwhelming, taught and accommodated me at my own pace, while not jeopardizing other classmates' education. He learned my limits, pushed me when I needed it, all while training me physically and mentally. He explains things well and if I don't get it the first time, he makes the effort to reexplain so I can understand.He learned what my weaknesses were and helped me overcome them. He definitely taught and gave me individual pointers, while still getting the group workout.Also, I took the Women's Self Defense class in Fall 2021 and I'm SO glad I did. I HIGHLY recommend. Corey walks through the physical skills but also the mental and emotional things that will need to be processed. That was critical for me. I think he offers it 2x/yr so get it on it when you can!It's a ton of fun. Everyone is welcoming, friendly, and there to help you learn. Highly recommend!