What We Offer
Programs
MMA / Mixed Martial Arts
Full-contact combat sport combining striking and grappling. Beginner to competition.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Ground-based grappling emphasizing technique over strength. Classes for adults and kids.
Kids Martial Arts
Structured martial arts program building discipline, confidence, and fitness in youth ages 5–14.
Boxing & Striking
Technical boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai fundamentals for stand-up combat.
Competition Prep
Elite-level training for fighters preparing to compete. Fight camp planning, sparring, and strategy.
Fundamentals
The perfect start for newcomers. Learn movement, defense, and core techniques in a safe environment.
Eric "Showtime" Shelton
UFC Veteran • 31 Pro Fights • 21-9 Record
Trained by Experience
Eric Shelton didn't just watch combat sports from the sidelines — he lived it. 31 professional bouts across the UFC, RFA, Fury FC, and more. That experience now belongs to every athlete who walks through these doors.
21-9
Record
31
Pro Fights
6+
Organizations
10+
Years Coaching
Saturday's Classes
Schedule
6:00 AM
Fundamentals
MMACoach: Eric Shelton
14 seats open
10:00 AM
Kids MMA
KidsCoach: Eric Shelton
10 seats open
5:30 PM
Intermediate
MMACoach: Eric Shelton
8 seats open
7:00 PM
Competition Prep
EliteCoach: Eric Shelton
5 seats open
Latest Episodes
Podcast
Mar 2026
The Mental Game of MMA
Breaking down the psychological edge that separates champions from contenders in combat sports.
Feb 2026
Building a Fighter from Scratch
Coach Eric walks through what a fighter needs from day one to their first competition.
Jan 2026
Faith, Fight & Family
How faith-based values drive the culture at Take The Fight Academy.
Dec 2025
Recovery & Training Load
The science and art of recovery for serious martial artists — sleep, nutrition, active rest.
Stay Connected
Follow the Academy
Highlights, training tips, fight nights, and behind-the-scenes content from Galesburg's premier MMA gym.
Partners & Sponsors
Ready to Train?
No experience needed. All levels welcome. Start with a $10 drop-in or commit to a membership and train with one of Illinois' premier fight coaches.
Questions? Contact us