Belgian MMA guide
The best MMA gyms in Belgium
Behind every Belgian Clash of Nations fighter stands a gym, a coach and years of work. Here are the clubs carrying Belgian MMA - and where to train if you want to follow in their footsteps.
Why this guide?
Belgian MMA has never been this visible. On 26 September 2026, nine Belgian fighters face Italy at the Dôme de Charleroi in the first Clash of Nations. All of them come out of Belgian gyms that have been building the new generation for years. Whether you're looking for a gym to start out, a high-level training centre or simply want to know where the athletes come from, this guide has you covered.
The gyms behind Belgium's fighters
La Cage Coaching
NamurA benchmark gym in Wallonia, La Cage is the training camp of Idriss Altidor and Takhir Suranchiev. Known for its demanding physical preparation and complete approach to MMA, it fields several black belts and active national-scene fighters.
Shocx MMA
BrusselsAn MMA sports centre in Brussels, Shocx MMA is home to Jonathan Tambwe. The facility combines MMA, grappling and combat sports with competition-focused coaching, open to beginners and experienced athletes alike.
Mind Athletics
MonsBased in Mons, Mind Athletics trains Emmanuel Duchesne and Mathis Anodin. The club focuses on the mental and technical side of fighting, with MMA, wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes for all levels.
Vitor Shaolin Team
WavreCarrying on the school of Vitor 'Shaolin' Ribeiro, the Wavre gym is home to Mechel Goessens and Quentin Larose. A benchmark of Brazilian jiu-jitsu in Belgium, the team has built a strong MMA section.
United Fighters Gent (UFG)
GhentOn the Flemish side, United Fighters Gent hosts Rafiullah Safi. A complete club in the north of the country, UFG covers MMA, kickboxing and grappling with a strong competition culture.
Team Sendo
BelgiumTeam Sendo is the club of Inès Boulabarj, the only woman in the Belgian selection. Specialised in combat sports, the club supports athletes from their first session to the highest level.
See these fighters in action
The athletes trained in these gyms step into the cage on 26 September 2026 at the Dôme de Charleroi for Clash of Nations, Belgium vs Italy. Doors 6:00 PM, prelims 6:30 PM, main card 8:00 PM.