If youre looking for a qualified instructor Ike Stafford is a veteran in his field. Hes had an amazing journey competing and training all over the world. Hes also super humble and he was happy to lend me his space so I could film my live show to help others overcome depression with martial arts training. It was an honor and privilege working with him.

Its a good place for kids but not for an experienced fighter wouldnt recommend they will make you wait 2 months before being able to spar and are only allowed to use 50 percent skillNice people tho

1978...I was 8yrs old when my Father (after much begging) walked us across the street from eating cashew chicken, into “Kim’s Academy”My Brother Steven and I trained with Ike for years and learned so much from this Man.He immediately took us in as his family and many years later in life when my Father past away, (1994) I stopped in to see him and I’ll never forget Ike who knew my Father well said to me “You always have a Father in me”I’m 50 yrs old now and what I learned from this man, not just Martial arts, but about Life, being humble, discipline has been with me everyday since 1978 and to this day, I love and absolutely consider this man Ike Stafford, My Father.I want him to know he is loved and missed and spoken of often in the Barger family.Thank you 🙏🏼 Sensei!Michael Barger

Ike Stanford is a world class trainer with tons of experience. He has trained so many world class fighters and taken them all around the world to compete that his gym is really a gem for the Springfield MO area.

I took lessons from Ike when I was in high school in the 90s. Back then, he already had multiple world champions trained at his gym. I met Ken Shamrock at his school before he was even famous. He was doing mixed martial arts before anyone had even heard of it, before the first Ultimate Fighting championship. He is an excellent teacher, and has devoted his life karate, boxing, shootboxing, and MMA. There are few people in the world more experienced than him.

Ike is awesome, hes always positive and always pushing you to be better. The gym is great, its not over crowded and it feels like a boxing gym.

Awesome place too learn and grow from one the best in the business!

This is the fight gym other gyms came from... The original and longest running kickboxing gym and boxing gym!!Over 40+ years and going !!If you really want to learn to defend yourself or want to step into the ring,. Either way this is your gym.

If you want to just get fit or seriously learn how to fight, this Gym is where to be!! Ike Strafford is a experienced trainer that has trained and fought all over the world. He is an expert in the art of kick boxing and Muy Thai. He also trains world class boxers. He does more private training sessions unlike other gyms that does big intimidating group “classes”. So don’t think about.. come!! You won’t regret it

Best coach, always positive, always making you feel like a champ. Amazing gym, all you need to become a good fighter.

I trained there for about 3 years and the only reason I left was I didn’t have enough time but, my experience was great and I still remember what I learned 5 years ago.

A top trainer in the area has had several World Champions

My Favorite Gym Champions Train Here!