Why AKA Remains the Pinnacle of MMA Gyms, According to Daniel Cormier
When it comes to the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), few gyms have made an impact as significant as the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA). With a roster that has included some of the sport’s most legendary fighters, AKA has long been considered one of the premier training facilities in the world. For Daniel Cormier, a former UFC champion and current commentator, AKA will always hold a special place in his heart. In a recent interview with Josh Thomson, another AKA alum, Cormier explained why he believes AKA is the best gym in MMA history.
Cormier’s own career is a testament to the success of AKA. A highly respected wrestler, Cormier made the transition to MMA and went on to become one of the greatest fighters in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), holding titles in both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. Alongside other AKA stalwarts like Cain Velasquez, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Luke Rockhold, Cormier was part of a team that consistently produced top-level talent. Despite the inevitable ups and downs that come with the sport, AKA’s fighters have always been known for their exceptional skill and dedication.
The Secret to AKA’s Success
So, what sets AKA apart from other gyms? For Cormier, it’s the fact that the team was built from the ground up, with many of its fighters training together from the early days of their careers. “What we had, I don’t think will ever be replicated again in the sport of mixed martial arts,” Cormier said in his interview with Thomson. “I believe that there are great teams right now. I don’t know that any team will ever get to where we were. You, Luke, me, Cain, (Jon) Fitch, (Mike) Swick, (Kyle) Kingsbury, (Josh) Koscheck, Trevor (Prangley), all built from the very start in AKA. Khabib came as a wrestler. Khabib, from 2013 when he got there to when he retired, inside of AKA. Nobody was coming over as a developed guy. We were all in-house, home-built family.” Quotes via MMA Junkie.
Today, Cormier can be found in the commentary booth, providing expert analysis on the next generation of MMA stars. Meanwhile, AKA continues to produce top talent, with fighters like Islam Makhachev carrying on the gym’s legacy. As the current UFC lightweight champion, Makhachev is a testament to the enduring success of AKA’s training methods and philosophy.
A Lasting Legacy
While other gyms may rise and fall, AKA’s impact on the world of MMA is unlikely to be surpassed. With a roster that has included some of the sport’s all-time greats, the gym has established itself as a benchmark for excellence. As Cormier himself noted, the bonds forged between AKA’s fighters have been a key factor in their success. By building a team from the ground up, AKA has created a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that is rare in the often individualistic world of MMA.
As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see whether any other gym can replicate AKA’s success. For now, however, the American Kickboxing Academy remains the gold standard, a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. With its legacy cemented in the annals of MMA history, AKA will always be remembered as one of the greatest gyms the sport has ever known.
