mmaking
warriors
through
science

about us

  • MMA Science Academy was built on decades of coaching experience, competition expertise, and a shared passion for elevating the way martial arts is taught.

    Our story begins with Roger Krahl, former professional striking coach at American Top Team and former owner of American Top Team Sunrise. Alongside experts David Zitnick and Dr. Paul Gavoni, Roger co-authored the book MMA Science: Training, Coaching & Belt Ranking Guide—a structured system designed to bring clarity, efficiency, and science-based development to martial arts training.

  • In 2020, following the pandemic, American Top Team’s main facility ended its regular membership programs. This pivotal moment opened the door for growth. Felipe Liborio joined Roger full-time, bringing vision, coaching experience, and leadership to help transform the original American Top Team Sunrise gym into something bigger—something built for the future of martial arts.

  • By 2023, American Top Team Sunrise was officially rebranded as the first-ever MMA Science Academy, marking the beginning of a new era.

    Today, our academy represents a complete system of martial arts education, prioritizing technical excellence, safety, discipline, and lifelong learning. We offer programs for all levels—from youth and beginners to advanced and professional fighters—and we are proud to be the home of The Pack Fight Team, the official competition and fight team of MMA Science Academy, led by Roger Krahl, Troy Worthen, and Taylor Krahl.

Our Vision
& culture

Our vision is to build a network of mixed martial arts academies that help people of all ages reach their full potential through high-quality martial arts training. At MMA Science Academy, we are committed to developing confident, disciplined individuals through structured MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and combat sports programs for youth, beginners, and professional fighters.

At MMA Science Academy, our culture is rooted in respect, teamwork, discipline, and continuous improvement. We believe martial arts training goes beyond physical conditioning—it builds mental toughness, emotional resilience, self-confidence, and leadership skills that benefit students both on and off the mat.

Our students are encouraged to support and motivate one another in a positive, goal-driven environment. Our experienced MMA coaches and instructors lead by example, demonstrating the core values of integrity, perseverance, and respect in every class.

We strive to create confident martial artists and an inclusive community where kids, teens, and adults feel welcome, supported, and empowered as they work toward their personal goals—whether that means learning self-defense, improving fitness, competing, or reaching the professional fight level.

OUR DIFFERENCE

At MMA Science Academy (MMASA), we stand apart through expert coaching, well-structured class curriculums, and science-based training methods. Our instructors bring decades of combined experience in mixed martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and combat sports coaching, ensuring high-level instruction for students at every stage.

Our programs follow a progressive learning system, allowing students to build skills step by step while consistently improving technique, confidence, and performance. Each class is designed to reinforce fundamentals while introducing new concepts in a clear, measurable way.

We use a variety of modern teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and experience levels. Whether you are a youth student, beginner, or professional fighter, our structured approach ensures that every athlete can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

core values

respect

I treat others the way I want to be treated

integrity

I do what's right and honor my words

perseverance

I pursue my goals even when things get tough

self control

I’m in charge of my attitudes and behaviors

Founders

roger krahl

Founder, Striking & MMA Head Coach

  • Coach Roger is a 5th-degree black belt in Kempo-MMA Blend, a former MMA fighter, and a lifelong martial artist. With over 30 years of experience owning a martial arts school, he has coached some of the world's top MMA fighters, from UFC Champions to emerging youth talents. Over the years, Coach Roger has honed his striking methods into a comprehensive MMA Striking System. He is one of the most experienced MMA coaches currently available.

FELIPE LIBORIO

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Head Coach

  • Coach Felipe is a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt, and leads the adults and teens Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program. He has an extensive competition and coaching background, boasting World, South American, and National titles. Felipe is an exceptional teacher with a passion for helping his students reach their full potential.

What People Are Saying