Mixed Martial arts Instruction
The Artist Institute offers Mixed Martial Arts instructor programs in Belton, Texas, serving students from Belton, Temple, Killeen, Fort Cavazos, and the Central Texas area. The programs are a three-level instructional sequence designed to prepare individuals to both practice and teach mixed martial arts in professional gym environments.
Although more than 80% of the program focuses specifically on fighting skills, even the most successful MMA fighters often transition into coaching roles over time, and these programs are structured to reflect that reality by combining martial arts training with formal instructional and leadership development. Students develop practical MMA skills while also learning how to teach, coach, communicate techniques, manage training environments, and support student development.
The programs are intentionally designed to build upon one another, progressing from foundational instruction to integrated systems and advanced coaching and operational responsibilities. In rare and exceptional cases, individuals who already possess extensive and verifiable background experience may enter at a higher level; however, this is uncommon and not the standard pathway.
Students who complete only the first program or the first two programs are still prepared for legitimate instructional roles, including assistant instructor and intermediate instructor positions. Completion of all three programs supports advancement into higher-level coaching and leadership roles within MMA training environments.
Students receive structured instruction in striking, grappling, conditioning, MMA fundamentals, coaching methods, class leadership, safety, and student development. The program is appropriate for students interested in MMA training, future coaching opportunities, martial arts instruction, gym leadership, or structured development beyond casual training.
The Mixed Martial Arts instructor programs were developed, and many courses are taught by, Anthony “TJ” Waldburger, a former UFC welterweight competitor with professional victories at the highest level of mixed martial arts. His career includes multiple UFC wins, two Submission of the Night performance awards, championship titles in major regional promotions, and years of experience competing against elite international talent. In addition to his fighting career, he holds a third-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and has built a long record of coaching and developing athletes across striking, grappling, and MMA disciplines.
Our MMA programs operate in conjunction with Grappler’s Lair, located at 120 N Penelope Street, Belton, TX. This location allows students to train in a gym-based environment while receiving instruction connected to The Artist Institute’s broader career-focused educational model.
Interested in MMA instruction at The Artist Institute? Contact us to ask about schedule, enrollment, and program availability.
The UFC is a registered trademark of Zuffa, LLC. This program is not affiliated with or endorsed by the UFC.
