Mixed Martial Arts in London
Diesel Gym is one of London’s biggest MMA Gyms and is a pioneer of the British Mixed Martial Arts scene. Unlike many MMA Gyms, Diesel prides itself in excelling across all the individual disciplines. All of which are required to succeed in the sport (check out each of the individual disciplines pages).
What is MMA?
Mixed martial arts, also known as MMA, is a term for the combat sport which combines many different fighting styles. Matches pit two competitors who attempt to dominate the other. They do this by utilising three general tactics: striking, submissions and control.
A mixed martial arts gym should provide martial arts classes that incorporate all three general tactics.
The rules allow the competitors to use a variety of martial arts techniques. Techniques can include punches, kicks, joint-locks, chokes, takedowns and throws.
A win is gained through A knock-out or submission.
A submission occurs when one fighter concedes victory to the other by tapping the mat or his opponent. It can also be finished by a the match referee via stoppage, the fight doctor, or a fighters cornerman.
Initially known as Vale Tudo, translated from Portuguese to mean , “everything goes”. It is no longer an accurate description of the modern competitions which utilise many more rules and weight divsions than before.
The first Ultimate Fighting Championship’s only rules were against eye-gouging, fish-hooking and biting. Modern MMA has come a long way since the Gracie family first started the UFC to showcase their style of Jiu Jitsu. Later developed into the No Gi style of 10th Planet jiu jitsu which is well suited to modern MMA.
MMA is also used to describe any modern style of martial arts which use techniques and theories from different martial arts. This especially applies to MMA styles which incorporate a mixture of ground fighting, stand-up striking, and takedowns in their training.
Beginners Welcome
Despite its competitive achievements Diesel prides itself on being able to give proven coaching for complete beginners. Diesel Gym structures its training to take care of and nurture our members.
Many of our participants want to attain an improved level of fitness, body composition and confidence at our mma academy.
Our gym memberships allow members to attain combat skills in each of the major fighting styles that make up MMA. Members can train in a safe and friendly environment well suited to beginners.
BEST MMA LONDON
Diesel Gym has produced many MMA champions in our illustrious history. Our martial artists have competed on the world’s largest stages. Promotions such as UCMMA, BAMMA, Cage Warriors, Bellator and the UFC have featured our members consistently over the years.
Our MMA gym London classes are supported by our 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu London practice. This is a style of no-gi jiu jitsu specifically developed with Mixed Martial Arts in mind.
As well as our MMA classes our Muay Thai program has produced many national and international champions and tournament winners. Our wrestling program has been specifically developed to excel within the MMA arena. Our Strength and Conditioning personal trainer team are truly world class working with professional and Olympic level athletes every day and well as beginners.
Due to Diesel’s international standing, we play host to many elite level MMA training competitors which is why we have been described as the best mma gym in London. Many household names within the sport have passed through our doors.
Other Classes
Muay Thai
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu
WRESTLING
PERSONAL TRAINING
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
Under 16’s
Timetable & Prices
see our timetable, prices and join online
Classes 7 days a week at London’s Mighty Diesel Gym
Google reviews
Has been more than a year I’m going to Diesel Gym training Muay Thai and I’ve admit It’s the best gym in London for this combat sport, the coaches are simply the best; from Arnas, Elijah, Cameron, Stanimir, Sydney, Jimmy. I highly recommend if you want train Muay Thai seriously, I also like the timetables suitable to my schedule from morning to evening. The facility has showers and changing rooms, sauna, heavy bag area and weights room. I’m aware of MMA, JIU JITSU and WRESTLING classes are top notch, personally I’ve never tried, but I have to say the environment It’s really cool friendly, for £99 monthly It’s the best deal in London!
Luca Missaglia
28 January 20255* best in London
John Smith
8 January 2025Such a wicked gym man. All the crew are great. Been there a few months now and with prior experience in only boxing and judo, I feel i’ve been able to learn so much, so quickly, with the help of the guys here. Big up yourselves Cam, Sal and everyone in the gym who helps me learn every session 💪 Love to Cliff as well, such a friendly and helpful guy with anything you need.
Laybourne
29 December 2024I had the privilege of training at Diesel Gym London for two years, focusing on BJJ and MMA, and it was an incredible experience! The gym has an amazing atmosphere—welcoming, yet intensely focused on growth and development. The coaches are highly skilled and genuinely passionate about their craft, offering personalized attention to help you progress, whether you're a beginner or an experienced fighter. The BJJ program is top-notch under the 10th planet family, with a strong emphasis on technique and practical application, while the MMA classes are dynamic and challenging, pushing you to reach your full potential. What sets Diesel Gym apart is the sense of community. The team fosters a supportive environment where everyone is motivated to help each other succeed. The facilities are clean, well-equipped, and designed to handle a variety of martial arts disciplines, making it a perfect place to train seriously. If you're in London and looking for a gym to sharpen your skills, build your fitness, and join a family of dedicated martial artists, Diesel Gym is the place to be. Highly recommend!
Lorenzo Giorgio
29 December 2024Diesel Gym is fantastic. Friendly, professional team and top-notch instructors make every session a great experience. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn BJJ
Jarek Sikorski
29 November 2024Lovely group of people definitely suggest signing up
William Dobberson
29 October 2024Gym located near the royal albert station. Went there for a 1.5 hours Muay Thai class (all levels). You will be paired up with a person (buddy) in a class. Instructor will demonstrate a technique and you will execute it with your buddy for 3 mins, followed by push ups. This will be repeated for about 35-40mins. After which, you will switch over and you become the pad holder for your buddy. Personally, I am not a fan of such modality as skills level between you and your buddy may be different which could potentially be dangerous. No worries about the hygiene as the gym staff will constantly remind members to keep the shoes off the mat. Kudos to the enforcement. Gym has toilet and locker room with showering facilities but there are no lockers provided.
Swee Chye Loh
29 October 2024Great gym with fantastic coaches, perfect for learning any of the martial arts they offer, very accommodating to new fighters and experienced 👍
Roan Harding
29 October 2024Fantastic gym in an ideal location overlooking the docks. Cliff, the trainers and the people here are great - no egos or bravado. Great mix of classes on all day, everyday to suit your schedule, large mat areas and well-equipped facilities. Happy to recommend.
Patrick CS
29 October 2024I’ve trained with Arnas and the fight team for over a week now and have really enjoyed the Muay Thai sessions. The team are so friendly and inclusive, Arnas is very knowledgeable and helpful giving me valuable feedback. They also have a weights area which has everything you need for strength workouts. I also have to say the female changing room is very clean. Cliff the owner has been super accommodating and I will definately return. Thank you guys!
Pink Ribbons
29 October 2024best gym out there
Dan'sBroke
29 September 2024Must train here Respectful people No egos No toxic people Loving community Welcoming to all levels No nonsense
Renminbi
29 September 2024Possibility the best gym in London, positive atmosphere and great coaches
Art A.
29 September 2024Amazing gym, with good vibes and good people, I would definitely recommend if you are trying to get into combat sports or just for general fitness.
Warsame Ibrahim
29 September 2024Been training at diesel for nearly 2 years, specifically the 10th planet jiu jitsu. All of the coaches are excellent and there's a wide range of classes avaialble, from fundamental through to advanced. Beginners are very welcome and egos are left at the door, you should not be worried at all about joining. Unfortunately I don't have the time to fit in the other martial arts but they are also fantastic groups from what I've seen.
Joromy Bou Khalil
29 August 2024Best gym ever! I loved it there
julien belinga
29 August 2024I go for Lauren's workout classes and she's an amazing PT 👏 🤩 Thank you for motivating me.
Disha Trivedi
29 July 2024Lovely gym. The main man, Cliff, is a legend. Recommended!
Mtnn
19 July 2024Friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Great and clean facility! Excellent trainers/coaches
Svetlana Samways
17 July 2024The gratis Boot Camp and Circuit Training classes by Lauren are brilliant. The classes are open to all levels and aspire to be sweaty adrenaline charged sessions. Lauren's enthusiasm is infectious and the ladies group is super supportive and familial. The martial arts crew training next us somehow manage to remain friendly and smiling despite the endless punching and kicking. The dock side location is perfect for a post workout cool breeze.
BAY AGNANI
17 July 2024
MMA GYMS NEAR ME
We are well situated near many transport links in Royal Albert Docks next to the Excel Centre and O2 arena.
Address: Diesel Gym HQ, 1012 Dockside Road, London, E16 2QT
Its so easy to get to us with direct links from hubs such as:
– Bank (DLR, Circle, District, Central and Northern Lines)
– Tower Gateway (Circle, District and C2C trains)
– Canning Town (Jubilee Line and DLR)
– Stratford (Jubilee, DLR, Overground, Central)
Find out more on our location page.