Are you an Ultimate Fighting Championship fan?
Our MMA class combines striking, takedowns, and grappling training for a complete self-defense and conditioning workout. You'll train in a safe, technical environment learning techniques from all phases of the sport.
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Just see what our students have to say:
"I would recommend Mad Dog Jiu Jitsu training to everyone who wants to stay fit, healthy and wants to improve their defensive abilities."I feel that training with John has been extremely beneficial to me and has helped me in my profession. Maintaining my stand-up abilities as well as developing a ground game allows me to enter a possibly volatile situation calmly. It's comforting to know where my strengths and weaknesses lie on a given day and know that I have tested myself in the gym. All the instructors and workout partners here are great and are quick to answer any questions or elaborate on new principles, positions, and techniques. I would recommend Mad Dog jiu Jitsu training to everyone who wants to stay fit, healthy and wants to improve their defensive abilities. |
Luis Velasquez Age 36 Boston, MA |
Chris Borelli 43 years old Consultant, Walpole MA |
"My waist has gone from a 34 to a 30 and my cardio has drastically improved. John is an excellent instructor and makes new students feel welcome." |
"It’s been a delight for the past 3 years to train with John Connors at his academy."John is always present at the academy emphasizing safety and ensuring a safe pairing of partners. His facility is large giving plenty of room for rolling and has a very impressive weight lifting and strength building section. I’m doing mostly mixed martial arts at the moment, enjoying every session and the physical confidence that it engenders. I expect to continue for many years. |
Herb Kavet Author, 73 years old Wayland, MA |
Tom Polak Arlington, MA |
"I couldn’t have been more surprised at how much technique I retained in just one week."John’s passion for Martial Arts are evident in his teachings; structured drilling on the offense and defense (with several nuances) as well as free roll time to practice what you have learned. In my opinion you can evaluate a school/instructor by the students and John’s students are respectful, kind, and exhibit nothing but honor in the dojo. If you are looking for a school with affable students who truly want to work with you and an instructor who is dedicated to teaching the sport, science and art of BJJ, Muay Thai Kickboxing and MMA then Connors MMA is the place for you. |
"It has been a life changing experience for me and I am honored to have a spot on the mat..."At 34 and after years of procrastinating, I felt it was time to jump in with two feet. I entered Connors MMA with no martial arts experience and was welcomed with open arms by all. Thanks to John, my mental and physical abilities have dramatically improved. It has been a life changing experience for me and I am honored to have a spot on the mat. It's never too late! |
Chris Catanese Marshfield, MA |
John Pappas | "I feel very fortunate to have been able to train at Connors Mixed Martial Arts..."From the first day you go on the mat you walk into a familiar, friendly, helpful and positive environment. John leads a very casual but structured and directed environment in which each individual student is encouraged and coached to develop at their own pace and capacity. The variety and different style of classes offered really makes for a unique experience when compared to many academies around the area. I feel very fortunate to have been able to train at Connors Martial Arts / Mad Dog Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and I would encourage any and all my friends to try this as well. |
"I find myself looking forward to the end of the work day, so I can train at Connors MMA..."Good Morning John! I just want to say, thank you again. The training was great yesterday. You are a great teacher and run a fantastic academy. I find myself looking forward to the end of the work day, so I can train at Connors MMA Academy. See you Monday, on the mat. My back has never felt better. Have good weekend. |
Paul Visconti Tewksbury, MA |
"Here I am today training with some of |
Go from computer geek
to successful MMA fighter.
Here's how Chad did it:
"I have lost 41 pounds and | Chad Lightfoot Attleboro, MA |
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David Pope Sharon, MA | "...as a 36 year old data analyst and father of 2 young kids I just couldn't see training as a good fit for me...
|
"Your training offers |
Todd Miner (with UFC Vet Gabriel Gonzaga) Wrentham, MA |
Right to left: Steve Collins, Jesse McElligott, James J Boran, John Connors, Matt Tullos, Javier Velasquez, Jeff Powers
Congrats to James J Boran, XCFL Champ!
"Thank you to all my training partners and coaches, Connors MMA we are killing it!"
Jon Grayzel, MD Worcester, MA | "John strikes a wonderful balance in keeping the training fun and as safe as possible, but still challenging."I have practiced a number of martial arts at a wide range of schools over many years, and John Connors' school is among the best places I have seen. John strikes a wonderful balance in keeping the training fun and as safe as possible but still challenging. What I most admire about John, however, is his thoughtful approach to martial arts instruction. He is continually experimenting, questioning, reading and working to improve his skills, and he is eager and adept at sharing his knowledge. Simply put, Connors MMA / Mad Dog BJJ is a great place to train. |
"Aside from being a very accomplished and talented Black Belt, John has the uncanny ability of teaching in a very easy to understand way that allows for everyone to progress at a rapid pace."I have been training at Connors MMA / Mad Dog Jiu Jitsu under the instruction of John Connors for almost five months now. Coming from an athletic background and being a college athlete myself, competing in football, weightlifting, and track and field, I can honestly attest to the fact that the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the entailing workouts are some of the hardest, most stimulating, and most rewarding workouts I have ever undertaken during my entire athletic career. Aside from the pure health and fitness benefits that you will receive in undertaking the practice of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, choosing Mad Dog Jiu Jitsu as your place to train over others has many other added benefits as well. Not only will you get to train in a very comfortable, unthreatening, and relaxed environment, but you will be surrounded by guys that are equally zealous in their pursuit of mastering the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, while simultaneously having a downright good time. Furthermore, the mats are new, there is ample changing space, and overall the facilities are impeccably clean at all times. I can assure you that you will be hard pressed to find any other training facility as well kept and equipped as Connors MMA. Lastly, as if it could not get any better, you will have the privilege to train under one of the best grapplers in New England. Aside from being a very accomplished and talented Black Belt, John has the uncanny ability of teaching in a very easy to understand way that allows for everyone to progress at a rapid pace. His instruction is clear, his demonstrations intelligent and easy to follow, and his skill second to none. As a student and friend of John's I can honestly say that choosing Connors MMA as my place to train has been one of the best decisions I have made for myself and I will continue to train there for as long as I can. Mike Campanella 21 year old College Student |
Our student Brandon Nava
lost 50 pounds...
here's what he has to say:
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Matthew Rosenfeld (with former UFC Welterweight Champ Matt Serra) Dedham, MA | "The people... are some of the most intelligent people I've ever met anywhere."I first found out about Connors MMA / Mad Dog Jiu Jitsu from seeing a flyer at J.P. Licks in West Roxbury. As an avid MMA fan, and a single father totally out of shape at age 37, I decided I had to give it a try. I showed up for No Gi class after corresponding with John Connors, who told me to "bring a cup." I did, and it was awesome. I had forgotten how much I loved wrestling, and how good a workout it is. Well, that first night I got a little too intense, and I ended up puking in the bathroom four times. After that first night, I was hooked on Mad Dog Jiu Jitsu. Now here I am, 16 months later, a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and a part of John's amazing close-knit group of competitors. Training at the facility is great; it is so clean and organized. The people I roll with are some of the most intelligent people I've ever met anywhere. Saturdays are particularly fun because I take the MMA class (which is fantastic) and then enjoy some "open mat" training in whatever I want. John is always up for some stand up work, and he always goes easy on me. LOL! John Connors is the best Martial Arts instructor I've ever known (I did some years of Tae Kwon Do and Japanese Jiu Jitsu in my youth), and you can't go wrong with Connors Mixed Martial Arts Academy. It is stimulating for the body, mind and soul. |
"I can honestly say in all my years of both in the grappling world and in education, John Connors is one of the best coaches/educators I have ever had the pleasure to learn from and with."As someone who has wrestled for 20 years and been an educator for 10 years, I have come across all types of coaches and teachers, good, bad, and downright unethical. I can honestly say in all my years of both in the grappling world and in education, John Connors is one of the best coaches/educators I have ever had the pleasure to learn from and with. He has created a culture that focuses on learning and continuous improvement. He himself takes a learner's stance -- always trying to improve his own game while he assists his students in becoming more skillful. While he himself is a master of the sport, he never looks down on a student or questions their ability. Rather, he always trying to help everyone to improve all the time. He always takes the time to answer individual questions. On top of the excellent culture and environment John has created, the physical space is second to none. | Mike Odiotti |
Jason Zagami Dedham, MA | "John does a nice job of balancing working with him and pairing you up with the right partner so that you never feel overly dominated or disheartened."I have trained with John Connors since April of 2006. It has helped with my overall physical conditioning tremendously. I have replaced most of my cardio training with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai work. John does a nice job of balancing working with him and pairing you up with the right partner so that you never feel overly dominated or disheartened. Others in the class are extremely helpful and patient. I tell all my existing clients about the benefits of John's classes. It has changed my body for the better as will yours. As important as weight training and proper diet is, without a regimented cardio program you will never achieve the lean body you are looking for. John does a great job of organizing his classes with a quick warm up, light stretching, learning proper technique, then ample time at the end for randori. Another great benefit of training in the combat arts is the increased confidence you will have when in uncomfortable situations. |
199.8 lbs! First time under 200 in 7 years, thanks bro. | Kenny Owens Boston, MA |
"It is a true 'self defense' art and a whole lot of fun."Several years ago after having seen the UFC, I was curious to see what all this brazilian jiu jitsu was all about... How could a smaller man defeat a larger opponent? I was looking for a martial art that wouldn't require me to do flying backkicks or crazy acrobatics but want to feel like I could protect myself if need be. Jiu Jitsu gave me the confidence that I was looking for, and I know for a fact that it works if applied appropriately. It is a true "self defense" art and a whole lot of fun. It's almost like being a little kid when practicing techniques that require you to roll around on the ground. Heck, who can't "lie down" on the ground? Now all you need to do is learn how to move. Also, it's such a good workout. Steve Whittier in my estimation is one of the finest coaches around. Being athletics myself, I can relate to many of Steve's instructional techniques that he uses to teach. He brings not only a very high level of skill in his own practice of BJJ but also an intellect that causes a practitioner to improve. Ever since meeting him I was sure that he will go to the top with his students. Connors Mixed Martial Arts Academy is the nicest gym that I've ever been in. It is extremely clean and welcoming. The mats used for BJJ for the first time that I've ever experienced actually are hygienic. The place makes you feel like you're in a professionally run business, yet it welcomes kids and families. Therefore, it is suitable and caters to basically everyone. I really enjoy the atmosphere there. John Connors is the type of guy who can flip you on your back with such ease yet he's modest and down to earth. He runs Connors Mixed Martial Arts Academy without any ego, although with his skill he could if he chose to conduct himself that way. I wish him all the success with Connors Mixed Martial Arts Academy and hope continued success. Paul Roe 40 year old Tennis Professional Brookline, MA |
Paul shed 50 pounds
since joining our gym...
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Dan McCarthy Needham, MA | "It has been an honor to train with John and everyone that is interested in quality instruction should check out his program."I have trained with John Connors for well over nine years and he is a true student of the game. His teaching style is very methodical and approachable for the beginner while his grasp of the complex techniques makes him an ideal teacher for the advanced student. It has been an honor to train with John and everyone that is interested in quality instruction should check out his program. |
"That nervousness soon disappeared when I started training |
Robert Matthews |
Anthony Miner | "BJJ was a better work out and I got in great condition for the season..."Hey John, As a high school wrestler I needed something to keep me in good shape and keep me busy during the off-season. My dad was training at Connors MMA in BJJ and he wanted me to get into it and see what it was like. My first class was a month away from the first wrestling practice. It turned out that BJJ was a better work out and got in great condition for the season. I went on to place in a state tournament, triple my win total from the previous season, win the "most improved" award, and I was elected team Captain for next year. After the wrestling season ended the first thing i wanted to do was get back on the mat at Connors MMA. From that time on i have been able to experience great things such as training with my Father, Todd Miner, and meeting new people. It was also great to train with more teens my age and become great teammates and good friends. Last week I was able to experiance my first grappling tournament. With John's great coaching I was totaly comfortable and was able to take first in my division. Thank You! |
"The school has an incredible combination of a fun and friendly environment with exceptionally fast-paced, high-level learning."I can not say enough about the positive experience I've had training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Steve and John in Dedham. As teachers and coaches, John and Steve are excellent: detailed, clear, and patient. They have the expertise and ability to coach athletes looking to compete, but are amazingly good at relating techniques and concepts to people of any age or interest level. It is a guarantee that anyone who walks through the doors will improve, and will improve rapidly. In addition to the skill of the instructors, the atmosphere in Dedham is exceptional. Everyone is friendly, everyone helps each other out, everyone has fun. The school has an incredible combination of a fun and friendly environment with exceptionally fast-paced, high-level learning. I am very happy that I found this school as a place to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. If you have any interest in furthering your training, or curiosity about beginning training in BJJ, I can't recommend this school highly enough. Stop by just once, you will be impressed. Dan Robin 39 year old Professor Walpole, MA |
"The instructors, fellow students and yourself have got to be the best bunch of guys that I have ever trained with..."The instructors, fellow students and yourself have got to be the best bunch of guys that I have ever trained with. You all are professional, courteous and down to earth. The short time that I have been training with you was a very enjoyable and knowlegeable experience. You have alot of patience with your students. That is good. Tell Jesse that I enjoyed rolling with him. He took it easy on me because he knew that I was new. I learned alot from you and him, and also from Ken. Take care! |
Bob McNally Quincy, MA |
Check out Mark Vogel
and his new blue belt:
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John Gottfried | "...would highly recommend training to anybody looking for a fun way to stay in shape"As a former high school and college wrestler, I was looking for a place to keep in shape and also to try something new. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is similar to wrestling in a lot of ways, but it also requires learning a unique skill set in order to succeed. John Connors is very skilled at breaking down complicated moves step by step so that someone like myself who is slow at learning new moves can understand how to utilize them. I have learned a lot in the time I've been training here, and would highly recommend training to anybody looking for a fun way to stay in shape, especially former wrestlers. |
"...incredible instructors..."You and your staff are incredible instructors and you have truly great students as well. I have all incredible things to say about you and your school and I refer everyone that I meet that is interested in grappling. |
Matt Abate Impact Martial Arts, Walpole |
Ken Jenkins (with Ultimate Fighter Kenny Florian) Natick, MA | "I can't think of better group of guys to work out with."Training Brazilian Jiu-jitsu at Connors MMA has been a positive experience for me on many levels. First, I can't think of better group of guys to work out with. Both Steve Whittier and John Connors are knowledgeable teachers that also know how to keep it fun. Secondly it's a nice place. The facility has nice clean mats, adequate changing room and has plenty of parking spaces. If you want a fun place to work out; learn a functional and effective martial art; then, I don't think there is a better place to go than Connors MMA. |
"It is a fun, respectful and professional environment to train in and I am proud to be a part of it."I have the opportunity, because of traveling for business, to train at some of the top academies in the country. Steve & John have a very practical, effective approach to teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is gaining knowledge that is applied to techniques that makes the training very effective and understandable. Both Steve and John spend the necessary time with me in order to help me achieve my goals. My skills have excelled to a new level since joining Connors MMA. It is a fun, respectful and professional environment to train and I am proud to be a part of it. Left to right: Ken Jenkins, John Connors, Steve Whittier, Kenny Florian, Dan Robin, Paul Ciciarelli Paul Ciciarelli Wellesley, MA |
Jesse McElligott NAGA New England Championships Expert Heavyweight Champ; Matt Tullos NAGA New England Championships Expert Teen Champ; Brandon Weiland NAGA New England Championships 13 year old Champ
See what else our members have to say:
"Connors MMA is one of the best training facilities I have ever trained in."They are always there and have a very comfortable hands-on-approach to your training. I have never felt that a concept went over my head. If it did, they were right there to break it down for me. I really enjoy the rapport with my training partners. No matter what level someone is, everyone works as a team to improve. It's by far one of my best investments in my training. | Kevin J. Kearns, B.S. Exercise Physiologist Medfield, MA |
Todd Millay | "You have built an amazing school with a great atmosphere."Hi John, Thanks very much for your feedback and advice. I really appreciate the way you have taught me and Christopher (son). We feel very fortunate to be working with you - jujitsu has become an important part of our lives. You have built an amazing school with a great atmosphere. I have really been impressed by the other students I have met - good, smart, friendly people who are also extremely effective martial artists. It is a real testament to your ability as a sensei. Christopher and I look forward to continuing to learn from you and Jesse. Thank you again. |
"Best of all he gets out of the house |
I lift weights all the time. Nothing, NOTHING compares to this. Cardio, strength, weight loss - this is the best!
R.M. |
I learned more about fighting in my first Introductory lesson at Connors MMA / Mad Dog Brazilian Jiu Jitsu than I did in four years of training in another martial art.
Juan V. |
Hey John,
My first impression is that your school is by far the cleanest school I've ever seen... as I said that day, the mats are pure love and that the training is fantastic. Best Regards, Jeff |
"I highly recommend this school for anyone who is looking to learn an exciting new sport or who is bored with the day in day out of the gym."I've been interested in martial arts my entire life, but after taking a few semesters of karate classes in college I was somewhat turned off to the experience. Too much mental prep - too little useable experience. I've also never been one for classes and preferred to learn new sports on my own. Connors MMA / Mad Dog Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been an eye opening experience. First off, John's teaching style is the best I have experienced. He is patient and quickly learns every student's strengths and weaknesses and helps to improve their game based on their assets. Second, there is a great group of friendly students who are eager to train and willing to learn. I highly recommend this school for anyone who is looking to learn an exciting new sport or who is bored with the day in day out of the gym. I used to lift weights 6 days a week, but after a year of BJJ I'm the strongest I have ever been in my life and I weigh 10lbs less. Give the intro class a shot, you'll be hooked. Josh Garland Allston, MA |
Chris Snow MMA Fighter |
"My Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has skyrocketed since I started training under you..."Hey John, I have to say I feel my bjj has skyrocketed since I started training under you...I have noticed a big difference in my skillset and have definitely been able to address some of the holes in my game...I have recommended you to many people so I hope I can get them in there...I appreciate you tailoring some of the training (adding gloves and strikes) so I can get ready for this fight. Just wanted to say thanks. See Ya Tonight! |
Pedro lost 31lbs in 8 weeks!
UPDATE: Pedro has now lost 43lbs in 12 weeks!
UPDATE: Pedro has now lost 104lbs in a little over 12 months!
"It would not have been possible
without training at Connors MMA."
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Cesar Barros, John Connors, Murilo Ninja Rua, Steve Whittier, Ken Jenkins