“For Muay Thai training, Ned is one of the most knowledgeable and humble people I’ve met in the training community.”
Read full review on Google ↗EARN YOUR GLORY.
GLADIATOR FIGHT ACADEMY · SOUTH SALT LAKE, UTAH - USA
More than a fight. A stronger version of you starts when you walk in. Build your striking, master the Ground, and train with a team that puts in the work.
FIND YOUR DISCIPLINE. or mix it all
MUAY THAI
The art of eight limbs. Punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinch work and sweeps. Monday–Friday at 6 PM.
MIXED MARTIAL ARTS
Connect striking, wrestling and grappling. Develop takedowns, cage work, ground striking, submissions, escapes and reversals. Monday–Friday at 7 PM.
BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU
Gi and no-gi training for every belt level. Build safe fundamentals, develop technical sequences and put your skills to work through drilling, positional sparring and live rolling.
YOUTH PROGRAM · AGES 8–15
Confidence, respect and discipline through practical self-defense. Girls and boys train Muay Thai, BJJ and wrestling. Monthly subscription, no contract; cancel any time.
PRIVATE COACHING & FIGHT CAMPS
Sharpen the details with one-on-one coaching, or prepare for amateur and professional competition with individual conditioning, skill circuits, sparring and tactical preparation.
PRIVATE COACHING → FIGHT CAMPS →
THE OBSTACLE. is the way
Confidence is built through the work. Our mission is to develop coordination, agility and resilience so the strength you build here follows you everywhere. Train for self-defense, amateur competition or the professional stage.
GET BETTER. build n belong
MUAY THAI: Monday–Friday, 6 PM.
MMA: Monday–Friday, 7 PM.
BJJ: Monday–Friday, 12:30 PM. Evening sessions are listed as Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 6 PM and Tuesday/Thursday at 7 PM on the dedicated schedule. Please call to confirm evening times before visiting.
YOUTH: Tuesday/Thursday, 5 PM; Saturday, noon.
SPARRING: Saturday, 1 PM.
All times are local Utah time.
EXPERIENCE PASSED ON. skill n drill
NENAD “NED” SHUPUT · HEAD COACH
Athletic experience across Europe and the U.S., extensive Muay Thai training under Sakasam, a second-degree kickboxing black belt under Aldo Oreggia, and a BJJ black belt earned in 2025. Coaching recreational athletes, competitors and UFC-level fighters.
GUSTAVO RODRIGUES · BJJ PROFESSOR
A fourth-degree black belt who began training in Santos, Brazil in 1995 under Master Elcio Figueiredo. An early mentor to Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida, Gustavo moved to the U.S. in 2007 and founded GRBJJ.
COLE SHAFER · WRESTLING FOR MMA
A two-time state champion, three-year Iowa State starter and NCAA qualifier. Cole later coached Wasatch High School and won Steelfist’s amateur light-heavyweight title before turning professional.
INSIDE GLADIATOR. grit n grind
On the mats. In the cage. In your corner. See the academy, the team and the work.
EXPLORE THE PHOTO & VIDEO GALLERY →
OUR EXTENDED CORNER
Tooele Martial Arts Academy · 10 S Garnet St, Building 669 #4, Tooele, UT 84074 · 435-882-1212.
One Hit MMA · Aldo Oreggia · 192 N. Fairfield Road #2, Layton, UT 84041 · 801-644-5707.
Salt Lake Capoeira – Volta Miúda · Mestre Jamaika · SLC Arts Hub, 663 W. 100 S., 2nd Floor, Salt Lake City.
Elite Sports · MMA equipment, apparel and training gear.
OUR AFFILIATES → NEWS & EVENTS →
YOUR FIRST ROUND. starts here
Your first class is free. Come meet the coaches and find the right program for you.
VISIT: 3324 South 275 East, South Salt Lake, UT 84115
CALL/TEXT: (801) 410-2385
EMAIL: gladiatorfightacademy@gmail.com
Over 235 Google Reviews
“Coach Ned is great with kids. He's very patient and gives them his full attention.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Within about 30 seconds that fear went away, as the instructors were kind and informative”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you so much for kind words. Happy and grateful to have you 🙏 …
“the coach has a plan and every minute of class is used productively.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Gavin, Glad to have ya..
“I was a total beginner and he worked with me to show me the basics and got me up to speed.”
Read full review on Google ↗“He made the environment feel comfortable, encouraging, and fun while still pushing me to learn and improve.”
Read full review on Google ↗“I found exactly what I was looking for at Gladiator Fight Academy…a legitimate fight gym that will push me to my limits.”
Read full review on Google ↗“The workout was intense and well-structured, but what really stood out was Coach Ned's personal attention.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you so much for this great and detailed review, hope to see you guys back, and we can offer you discounts.. 💪👊👍 …
“Coach Nenad has truly been a great mentor and coach to my son with the short amount of time.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Not many places you can just come in and be treated like family”
Read full review on Google ↗“As a female trying to learn a new skill, I felt safe and comfortable the entire time.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Glad to have you Ivey. You did great for your first day 💪👍 👊 …
“Most complete MMA Training you will ever get in one place, broken down into each day of training a different aspect of MMA fighting training.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
You got it boss.
“The Coach was so sweet and patient with us on our first visit.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Glad you guys participated, and did so well. Hope to see you back soon
“He has a seasoned insight into mma at all ranges, from kicking to grappling and everything in-between.”
Read full review on Google ↗“He takes the time to work with you and dial you in as an individual.”
Read full review on Google ↗“becoming a part of something that would help you be more confident in your abilities, this is the place!”
Read full review on Google ↗“By far one of the better experiences I've had with this sport. Thanks Coach.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Darby, glad to have you at our gym, you did well for you first day, and trust me me and the guys…
“his knowledge, attention to detail, and ability to break down techniques make every session invaluable.”
Read full review on Google ↗“The atmosphere is electric, welcoming both seasoned fighters and newcomers with open arms.”
Read full review on Google ↗“The class was very technical with a solid, well-balanced foundation.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Yes thank you for detailed review. Hope to see you back soon.
“This is the best Muay Thai gym in Salt Lake . … you’re paying a full months subscription for only 8 days.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
We are sorry that you have not remembered that membership was presented to you as to everyone else, as monthly, month to month subscription.…
“These guys are awesome. I've been going there a bit since they opened and they quickly made me feel welcomed.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Darian, watching your fights and the way you have grown and improved drastically in your fighting skills and as man, very proud…
“Ned is an outstanding instructor. I would rate this place 10 stars if I could.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Ned may look big and really intimidating, but he's actually a really nice, friendly and funny guy that'll make you feel like family.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Cleanly. Precise. Engaging. The people who come here are friendly but are also beasts in their own unique forms!”
Read full review on Google ↗“I attended my first class, and was please to discover a welcoming group of people, and a very clean tatami mat surface.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Brother, glad to have you at GFA. You are an amazing Athlete and a Fighter.
“First time being in a professional fighting gym, the other trainees and training coach are extremely supportive, welcoming and friendly.”
Read full review on Google ↗“This gym is a grade "A" five-star high-quality facility.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Came here for a class to check out the gym and ended up signing up the same day.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
😃👍 Glad to have you man... …
“GFA is the best gym in the area for Muay Thai, BJJ, and MMA.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Came for the Muy Thai session, stayed for the MMA. Great coach teaching a bunch of respectful athletes.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Super great experience, all the fighters there actually know what they are doing, not some guy in Lu lu lemon shorts who’s never been…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Started training here a couple of weeks ago, and it's been a great experience.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Amazing MMA gym! Bjj (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) with an incredibly technical instructor - Gustavo Rodrigues. Multiple black belt students.”
Read full review on Google ↗“I was a little nervous coming in for my first class since I was the only woman but everyone was very nice and understanding!,…”
Read full review on Google ↗“If you are new to MMA I really recommend this gym. The trainers are professional very helpful and patient.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great gym! I walked in with no experience, and Coach Ned has been great at helping people at every skill level.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Glad to have you at GFA Hunter. 💪👊🙏 …
“Great facility and classes for all levels. Very clean, everyone is friendly and respectful.”
Read full review on Google ↗“I had an awesome experience training at Gladiator Gym.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Yes that's what we are all about. And we are glad you had this amazing time with us. Hope to see you more often.
“Not many people nowadays truly love what they do.”
Read full review on Google ↗“This was my first time going to a actual mma gym to get professional training and this gym was amazing the coach was nice…”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Gabe you did amazing for your first time. Keep it up bud.
“You’d be remiss not to take advantage of the coaching here.”
Read full review on Google ↗“The folks at Gladiator will give any student the tools they need. Ned makes you feel comfortable and confident as you improve your skills.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great place to train weather you are beginner or a serious competitor. They have kids classes as well.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Took my nephew here for the free class and I highly recommend this gym to anyone ❤️❤️ they did absolutely amazing with him and…”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you brother 🙏Glad to have you guys …
“Walked into gladiator after work for my first day of training.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Adam, thank you brother.. hope to see you back soon
“If you want to expand your knowledge in fighting, Muay Thai and BJJ, this is the place to go!”
Read full review on Google ↗“I feel safe here 🙌🏼🙏🏼 Being able to come, be surrounded by amazing people, is the best feeling.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Ned makes each class interesting and challenging and makes sure to give everyone in the room quality instruction.”
Read full review on Google ↗“This gym is great. It has staff that is so knowledgeable of all different aspects of mma, muay thai, bjj, and wrestling.”
Read full review on Google ↗“I went in for a trial class as a complete beginner.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Gabe great to have you buddy 🙏 …
“I was hearing from my friends about atmosphere and good workouts at this place,i went to check it out by my self and i…”
Read full review on Google ↗“This gym was recommended to me so I decided to check it out. Everyone was super nice and the class was great.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Katarina hope to see you back soon. You did very well. 🙏💪👊 …
“I was in here for the Muay Thai class and it was pretty good.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Took my 11yr old daughter, Coach Ned was welcoming right from the beginning my daughter loved it and felt very comfortable.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Great to Have you guys. Jasmin is going to do well at GFA. 🙏🏻 …
“If you’re looking for an intense Muay Thai and mma gym this is the spot for you.”
Read full review on Google ↗“This a great gym, very welcoming for all ages and all experience groups. Coach Ned is extremely knowledgeable and an all around awesome guy.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Malaki great to have you brother, 🙏💪👊 …
“If you want to learn MMA BJJ kr Muay Thai way of fighting as well as Private lessons om self defense, THIS IS THE PLACE.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you
“This is a great place to learn. I just started and despite knowing very little about mma I feel like I can grown here…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Nenad is a great guy, and good coach, he taught me few years ago, glad to see him open his own gym along…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Came for my first time they were super friendly and the coach really broke things down and was super patience any first timers I…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Ned is so knowledgeable and knows how to break moves down simply.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Snahi. You are pro now 💪🙏👊 …
“Ned is the best instructor I have ever had!! He’s so helpful and knows how to guide to make sure you connect every punch/kick!”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Ned's class was high intensity, good for building relentless cardio for Muai Tai and wrestling.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Ned runs a stellar gym and there’s a very welcoming community.”
Read full review on Google ↗“This is a really great MMA gym, the whole place is super clean super organized, the instructor actually teaches you and treats everyone fairly…”
Read full review on Google ↗“My son looks forward to Tuesdays and Thursdays every week! He loves Muay Thai and Coach Ned! If you don't know now you know.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Very great gym went in for free trial class and was very satisfied with my experience a very good gym with great people definitely…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Knowing Ned, his character and work ethic this has got to be one of the finest academies in the Valley.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Hands down the best spot for kids or adults. Both my daughters have been coming here 3 months almost and they LOVE IT here.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Our son just recently started at Gladiator Fight Academy and we are all ready impressed by the gym culture and the quality instruction he…”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you 🙏🏻 Glad to have you guys. 💪🏻👊🏻 …
“Ned is a phenomenal instructor of mixed martial arts and runs a great gym.”
Read full review on Google ↗“If you want to train, come here. If you want to play, don’t. You’re paying to get your ass whooped and learn from the best.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
I love the first sentence of your review. Amen. 💪🙏 …
“Nenad is by far the best coach I’ve ever had!”
Read full review on Google ↗“Amazing gym, great coach. Willing to work with you patiently no matter what level you are at l.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Amazing gym! Professor Gustavo and Professor Jamaika are some of the best instructors i have ever learned from!”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great place to start you martial art journey. Top notch instructors/couches, clean and roomy facility and ego-free crowd make this place so special.”
Read full review on Google ↗“If you're looking to take your MMA training to the next level or start from the beginning, Nanad is your trainer!”
Read full review on Google ↗“I take my granddaughter here and we love it the coach is amazing if your thinking of coming here you would not be disappointed…”
Gladiator Fight Academy
We love you guys, and thank you.
“Absolutely fantastic gym. Great place to go whether you are a beginner or an advanced student. The people there are super supportive and helpful.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Coach Ned is great. I have experience in boxing but both coach Ned and coach cole has really helped me learn the proper technique…”
Read full review on Google ↗“Honestly one of the best coaches I’ve ever had, learned many things from him if u wanna take fighting seriously you guys have to…”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you brother.. great to have you 👊💪 …
“Dropped in while on work travel. Ro was a great coach.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you. Glad to have you.. 🙏🏻 …
“Really enjoyed today’s Muay Thai class agility, movement, and new combinations to rewire both brain and body. Always grateful to be learning 🙌Thanks Coach Ned.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Very welcome, Glad to have you 🙏🏻. …
“Great place where you don't need to feel under powered.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great place for beginners and experienced fighters. Its a new gym with brand new equipment, but most importantly a great coach. 10/10 would recommend trying.”
Read full review on Google ↗“It was great! The instructor is always hands on, helping where you’re going wrong. It’s a good environment and everyone is understanding. Definitely going back.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Gustavo is a solid trainer and gets you up to speed quickly even if you have little experience. Will definitely recommend becoming a regular here.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Ned is really helpful and explains things through so you understand each movement or drill and why they are necessary. Definitely recommend checking them out.”
Read full review on Google ↗“My son went and it was amazing teaching is very well done and teacher goes to every student and good at explaining and patient”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Yes. At GFA we love our Mini Gladiators. 💪🙏👍👊 …
“I went in for my free class and it was a very good atmosphere. Everybody was kind and patient with me as a beginner.”
Read full review on Google ↗“First day was free, great work out. The coach legit fights and so do a few others I'm told. I will be going back.”
Read full review on Google ↗“A Very Great Gym to train today I’ve learned more of defensive drills very technical . I will be returning I enjoyed :)”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Hope to see you back soon, Nanabah.
“Went in for a class and had an amazing experience. Great atmosphere, will be signing up for a membership in the near future.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
David you did well in class, hope to see you back
“I love the Gladiator Fight Academy! Its a very friendly and safe place to be part of! I strongly recommend it!! 🙌🏿🙏🏿🥳🥳❤️❤️ …”
Read full review on Google ↗“Went in for a trial class and was given a ton of knowledge. Coach was very patient and easy to learn from.”
Read full review on Google ↗“I had great experiences at this gym. It’s well run, very affordable, and clean. Instructors are very knowledgeable and have great energy.”
Read full review on Google ↗“The best academy to train in Utah the techniques they teach are the most efficient and serve you for a real combat”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Amen. 🙏💪👊👍 …
“Kid-friendly MMA school with experienced coaches. Great place for your kid' after school program to learn self defense and build self confidence.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great class I had a great experience here Very nice environment and the coach is very knowledgeable . Will definitely be back.”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Good to have you Brother.. 👍💪👊 …
“It was a great experience, thank you so much for everybody, definitely best fight academy in town. Thank you coach🥊 …”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Nikita, hope you will check us out at new location now too 👍💪👊🙏 …
“Our kids love Muay Thai with Coach Ned! If you're on the fence DO IT! They will love it! 🥊 …”
Read full review on Google ↗“I train here twice a week. It’s a great gym, good vibes, right off the freeway, good exercise and great community.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Very underrated school. Down to earth and everyone is passionate about mixed martial arts here. Coach Med is a great guy”
Read full review on Google ↗“To become better you have to train with the best and this is the place! Muay-Thai / MMA /Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great Coach. Don’t be scared to come in even if it’s your first time Coach Ned will work with you.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Super clean nice gym. Coach Ned I awesome!! Great set up and space to practice and learn from experienced fighters!!!”
Read full review on Google ↗“I really enjoy training at the GFA! The instructors are highly experienced and professional, and the atmosphere is very friendly.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Awesome experience with Coach Ned! Very welcoming environment from the moment I walked in. Left completely gassed. Highly recommend!”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thank you Brother.. Glad to have you at GFA 🙏👍💪🙏 …
“They have an excellent training facility with brand new and clean equipment. They are super nice and friendly guys.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Negligence is not tolerated here. If you want to train hard this is the place to do it.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great guys and coach just got done with my first free class and I would absolutely recommend”
Read full review on Google ↗“Amazing Experience! I learned so much just one session. Gym is clean, atmosphere is friendly and fun.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Ned is an amazing instructor very welcoming I wish I could give this more than 5 stars”
Read full review on Google ↗“Great Muay Thai class! You will learn technique and get a good workout at the same time.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Friendly gym that builds a great atmosphere to learn mma, and a very knowledgeable and experienced coach”
Gladiator Fight Academy
Thanks Brother.. Glad to have ya..
“Great place just went for the first time and learn so much! Can’t wait to keep going!”
Read full review on Google ↗“Amazing atmosphere, great coaches!! Very clean gym with great students of all levels. Definitely coming back!!”
Read full review on Google ↗“Ned is amazing coach, person. I highly recommend his gym. Great place to train and learn.”
Read full review on Google ↗“Loved the class. I went as a complete beginner and it was very challenging but fun!”
Gladiator Fight Academy
You did will Anna
120 selected Google reviews · Excerpts shown. Follow a card’s link to read the full review.