MARTINSBURG — Nine Realms MMA is a mixed martial arts gym located on Main Street in Martinsburg.
Nine Realms MMA, under the direction of senior coaches and husband-and-wife team Josh and Melissa Thompson, has been on a dominant run over the past three weeks, with the school's athletes consistently coming out on top in various competitions. Whether in the ring or on the mat, Nine Realms MMA has displayed superior skill and proven why it is one of the most competitive and active mixed martial arts schools in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The school competes in Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu as well as MMA and wrestling.
MMA training is beneficial for people of all ages and fitness levels. It's a great way to relieve stress and improve your overall health. It's a full-body workout that helps improve your cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility and endurance. Plus, MMA training can also improve your self-defense skills, boost your self-confidence and improve your mental focus and discipline.
In May, they dominated the competitive scene for three consecutive weeks, their stellar performances showcasing their talent and cementing their reputation as formidable contenders.
On May 11th, the team embarked on an exciting trip to Harrisonburg, Virginia to compete in the prestigious FujiBJJ Jiu Jitsu Tournament. The team proudly brought along 17 enthusiastic kids and 11 enthusiastic adults eager to put their training to the test. The Nine Realms team did not disappoint, coming home with an impressive haul of 25 gold medals, 22 silver medals, and 13 bronze medals.
Male and female competitors of all ages and backgrounds displayed extraordinary courage on the mat, showcasing incredible talent and skill honed through relentless practice and determination. Their victories were not only a testament to their physical abilities, but also a reflection of the unwavering mental strength and discipline cultivated by their coaches. The Nine Realms ethos extends beyond the mat, instilling a spirit of resilience, respect and excellence in all aspects of life.
In addition to their individual successes, Nine Realms received the Best Academy Belts, the highest award given by Fuji, a testament to the team's overall strength and unity.
On May 18th, Nine Realms proudly hosted three fighters at TCB (Thai Championship Boxing) in Manassas, Virginia, to spectacularly showcase their incredible skills in the ring. The event marked a major milestone for the team and was full of anticipation and excitement.
One of these young talents was thrust into the spotlight as he took part in his first exhibition bout. Despite the pressure, he performed exceptionally well, delivering an impressive display of refined technique that earned him praise from spectators and seasoned fighters alike. His agility, precision and poise clearly indicated that he had a promising future in the sport.
Meanwhile, the spotlight was on two experienced Thai fighters who took part in a highly anticipated amateur bout in Thailand. Their dedication and hard training was evident as both of them emerged victorious. One fighter displayed excellent strategy and perseverance throughout the rounds to secure a resounding victory via unanimous decision. The other fighter put in an exhilarating performance, winning by stunning TKO in the second round, having the crowd roar with delight as he displayed the perfect combination of power, speed and tactical precision.
These victories are not only personal achievements, but also a testament to the fact that the only traditional Muay Thai school in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is producing effective, dominant fighters. Each fighter's success is a reflection of the tireless dedication of their coaches, the unwavering support of their teammates, and the rigorous training regimen they follow.
On May 25th, they took a small but dedicated group of six children and two adults to the FujiBJJ Tournament (which also served as the West Virginia State Championships) in Hurricane, West Virginia. Amazingly, two of their teens competed in the adult division and displayed advanced skills. The team won an impressive 12 gold medals, eight silver medals, one bronze medal, and once again won FujiBJJ's highest honor, the Best in Show Oscar belt.
These events were much more than mere competitions. They embodied the dedication, tenacity, and indomitable spirit of martial arts. These experiences undoubtedly strengthened the friendships within the Nine Realms team, fueled their passion, and motivated them to pursue even greater goals in the future.
In conversation with coaches Josh and Melissa Thompson, the students expressed immense gratitude to Ah Jahn and the faculty, whose unwavering support and encouragement have played a vital role in fostering a culture of mutual growth and perseverance.
Ah Jaan Scott Howard, Owner of Disciple MMA in Sterling, Virginia, oversees the Muay Thai program. Disciple MMA coach Bryan Logan works alongside them to build the program. Professors Dave “Fluffy” Reeves and Jorge Gurgel, Owners of JGMMA in Cincinnati, Ohio, oversee the Jiu-Jitsu program. Disciple MMA professor Adam Levy helps hone their skills. The professors provide expert instruction to Nine Realms’ Jiu-Jitsu program.
Their collective leadership has played a pivotal role in driving the team's continued success.
