A Muay Thai school and Roy Dean Academy affliated Brazilian Jiu Jitu school in Sioux Falls, SD.
A Muay Thai school and Roy Dean Academy affliated Brazilian Jiu Jitu school in Sioux Falls, SD.
We understand that it is always beneficial to put a face to the folks you will be learning from. Tab over each name to learn more about our team members. If you meet these familiar faces in class and have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! Our goal is to make you feel comfortable, and we hope that you will continue and/or begin your martial arts journey with us.
Devin Turner
Hello and thanks for swinging by! I am the owner and head instructor at Midwest Martial Arts Academy. I am a seasoned Thai boxing coach and competitor as well as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt under the world renowned coach and leading expert, Roy Dean.
With over 15 years of martial arts experience, my approach to teaching is both traditional and dynamic. I instruct both basic and advanced concepts, all centered around the same fundamental techniques. No matter the skill level of the students, there is something for everyone to learn and build from.
Before deciding to open up a martial arts gym, I was an MMA fighter and competed in the tri-state area in MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. Having experience in the cage and on the mats allows me to teach techniques that work. Whether you’re looking to compete in either or both sports or you’re looking to feel more confident, I am here to help you with your goals.
Favorite Submission: Kimura
Favorite Muay Thai Technique: Sweeps
Austin Fox
My wife and I relocated to The Mount Rushmore State from Florida in 2021, and we've never looked back! We have enjoyed living in the Midwest, despite the thrilling winters. I've had the opportunity to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu all around the United States, and I obtained my brown belt from Nader Snober of Devine Jiu Jitsu Jacksonville in 2022. I've been training BJJ for a total of 11 years.
Outside of jiu jitsu, Austin is a CRNA at Avera.
Favorite Submission: Loop choke
Jake Nicks
I am a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I grew up in Denver, Colorado, and came to Sioux Falls in January 2023. I have over 6 years experience in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I've competed in BJJ events in various states, including Submission Challenge, Fight2Win, Grappling Industries, and many others. I've also competed at the professional level of grappling with Shoot Pro Wrestling and am still undefeated! I've always like horror films, professional wrestling, and tattoos.
You can find Jake teaching our kids classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Favorite Submission: Chokes. All of them.
Michael "Masa" Nelson
Sioux Falls native born and raised. Signed up for my 1st Muay Thai class back in October 2008 and have been a practitioner ever since. Had my fun competing in TBA with a couple of other Muay Thai and Kickboxing events under my belt, but now I continue my training simply for the love of the art, to help my friends and newcomers alike learn/sharpen their Muay Thai techniques, and to maintain my physical health in general.
Favorite strikes: All the kicks and elbows!
Brandon Villanueva
I grew up in Sioux Falls and began training as a teenager, alongside Mikey. I have over a decade of experience striking. I've competed in numerous TBA events, US MTO, and kickboxing/grappling competitions in the Tri-State area. I also currently am a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Brandon teaches the Wednesday Muay Thai class and occassionally assists in the Kids BJJ classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.