Mayhem MMA

Locals Bring Fresh Experience to the World of Self-Defense and Exercise Through Martial Arts Training

Photo by Darrin Phegley

A new, innovative way to work out has come to Henderson. Mayhem MMA promises a fresh experience in the world of self-defense and exercise through martial arts training for anyone aged 6 and up. Owners Josh Stanley and Nate Maness, both skilled fighters in the mixed martial arts (MMA) community, have unique experiences that have made them ready to teach others their expertise. 

Finding a Passion for Martial Arts

Nate Maness said he has always been active in sports. He stated that when his head coach, Brad Cummings, introduced him to jiujitsu and other martial arts, he found a calling for fighting and decided to try his hand professionally. His first fight was in 2013. He has fought in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and the Bare Knuckle FC (Fighting Championship). “I’m just trying to do new things and enjoy the later end of my career.” Nate said he won his latest fight through Bare Knuckle FC, which Josh exclaimed that he was being modest about. “It was a blowout,” commented Josh. 

Josh Stanley had a different background, saying he did not grow up playing sports and was not active in anything until he went to Murray State University. He stated that there he found people training in jiujitsu and when he came back home, he met Nate and others interested in MMA and felt at home. In fact, Josh said that he and Nate debuted in their fights on the same night. “Since we both live in Henderson now, we wanted to bring MMA to the community. It was just kind of a natural next step.”

The MMA Experience

All classes at Mayhem MMA will contain workouts, instruction, and open mat time to work on all of the skills that were just learned. There are classes for all ages 6 and up that are designed to work on fundamentals, MMA skills, and more. As stated on their Facebook page, “All of our classes are designed for people of all skill, experience, and fitness levels and can be (mostly) varied and modified to help you develop over time. Just be prepared to work hard, push yourself, and grow… and we’ll be there to help you every step of the way!”

Mayhem MMA offers several different classes for differing lifestyles, ages, and genders. For kids ages 6-12, kids will learn Brazilian jiujitsu, which Nate says is a great strategy to learn for self-defense. He stated they will also learn wrestling and kick boxing. “These kinds of skills help kids to feel more confident. When kids know they have the skills to defend themselves if needed, then it becomes easier to stand up for themselves against bullies. A lot of the time just having these skills allow the kids to deescalate situations altogether. We make sure the kids know that these skills are only used in the gym or for their protection, too.” In addition to these strategies, kids can also participate in basic workouts to work on cardio and improving their fitness levels. Once kids turn 12, they can graduate to the adult classes which contain more advanced skills. Nate and Josh want to make sure everyone knows their experience will be as catered to them as possible depending on their current skill level and progress made. Classes are also offered at times that are convenient for school life, with most starting at 4:30PM on weekdays. 

Self-defense classes specifically for women are also being offered, although the schedule listed on the Facebook page is likely changing soon. Nate and Josh say to stay tuned on the Facebook page for any updates that are likely to occur. 

Becoming a Member

Various membership packages are available. Nate and Josh stated that they wanted to make their services as affordable for families as possible, which is why they offer some bundle deals and discounts for multiple people signing up. Memberships start as low as $25 a month per person in bundle deals and there are different tiers for varying needs. Mayhem MMA also offers trials for two free sessions and drop-in sessions that can be paid for single-day passes. 

Community Support

Nate and Josh wanted to thank their sponsors: Hercules Manufacturing, Thor’s Dumpster Rentals, Tacoholic’s, Maldonado’s Construction, Max’s Custom Completion, Spartan Productions, and Tag a Handyman Service. They also wanted to give a shout out to their head coach of 15 years, Brad Cummings, for everything he has done for them. 

There will be five locals fighting on the card at an upcoming event on March 8, 2025 through the Southern Indiana Combat Production. Tickets can be purchased online on the Southern Indiana Combat Production’s website, southernindianacombat.com. 

Mayhem MMA is located at 519 Barret Blvd, Henderson, KY 42420 and the hours are Monday-Thursday 4PM-7:30PM and Saturday 12PM-2PM. Hours are subject to change. Follow Mayhem MMA on Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok, and Instagram @mayhem.mma270 to keep up with updates, schedules, and videos of locals showing off their skills. Thank you, Nate and Josh, for bringing such a unique opportunity to Henderson!