Business Details
14 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Academy in San Diego
Founded in 2012, City Of Champions has established itself as a premier destination for martial arts and fitness training in the San Diego State neighborhood. Our mission is to empower individuals of all ages and skill levels through expert instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Strength & Conditioning. Led by world champion Dustin Thornton and a team of seasoned instructors, we combine decades of competitive experience with a commitment to community-driven growth.Our state-of-the-art facility features industry-leading mats, premium training equipment, and dedicated spaces for both adult and youth programs. We emphasize practical skill development, physical fitness, and character building while maintaining a welcoming environment that aligns with local neighborhood values. With consistently positive Yelp reviews highlighting our clean facility and positive energy, we offer free trial classes to introduce newcomers to our dynamic training community.
Services
Jiu-Jitsu
Muay Thai
Mixed Martial Arts
Strength & Conditioning
Kids Classes
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer free trial classes to experience our training environment
- Our head coach is a multiple-time world champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- We maintain one of San Diego's best-kept martial arts facilities
- Our programs accommodate all skill levels from beginners to competitors
- We combine traditional martial arts with modern fitness training methods
What people say
Great community support
Clean facility
Experienced trainers
Free trial offer
Positive energy
Services
Jiu-Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program combines traditional techniques with modern competition strategies. Taught by world champion Dustin Thornton, this discipline develops ground fighting skills, submission techniques, and physical conditioning. The curriculum accommodates all levels from beginners to competitive athletes while emphasizing practical self-defense applications.
Muay Thai
This comprehensive Muay Thai program teaches Thailand's national martial art using eight-limb techniques. Our instruction integrates traditional methods with Dutch kickboxing elements, focusing on knee strikes, elbow techniques, and clinch work. Classes emphasize cardiovascular fitness, proper striking form, and practical application in a supportive training environment.
Strength & Conditioning
Our Strength & Conditioning classes combine Olympic lifting, kettlebell training, and bodyweight exercises. Designed to improve athletic performance and functional strength, these sessions use specialized equipment including battle ropes, squat racks, and bumper plates. The program benefits martial artists and general fitness enthusiasts seeking structured physical development.
Kids Classes
Our Kids Program teaches martial arts fundamentals through age-appropriate instruction. Focusing on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA basics, the curriculum builds confidence, discipline, and physical coordination. Classes incorporate anti-bullying techniques and emergency preparedness while maintaining a fun, engaging environment for children of all skill levels.
Mixed Martial Arts
Our MMA program integrates multiple combat disciplines into comprehensive self-defense and competition training. Students learn to combine striking, grappling, and transitional techniques while developing fight strategy and situational awareness. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and adapts to individual skill levels for both recreational and competitive practitioners.
People
Dustin Thornton
Head Coach / Founder
Multiple-time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu world champion with over 15 years teaching experience. Former ADCC competitor who opened City of Champions in 2012 after training internationally in Taiwan. Holds black belt from Joel Tudor and specializes in competition preparation and youth development.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Strength & Conditioning programs for adults and children.
Do you offer free trial classes?
Yes, we provide a free trial class for new members to experience our training environment and meet our instructors.
Are there programs for children?
Yes, our Kids Program teaches age-appropriate martial arts skills focusing on confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense.
What equipment is available?
Our facility features Swain/Dollamur mats, Fighting brand equipment, Title Thai bags, and full strength training apparatus.
Who are your lead instructors?
Head instructors include multiple-time world champion Dustin Thornton (Jiu-Jitsu), Adrian Morilla (Muay Thai), and Dan Carlson (Strength & Conditioning).
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