Walk into some MMA gyms and you feel like you’re trespassing on a secret club for people who want to hurt each other. The air is thick with ego. The music is too loud. If you aren't a pro fighter, you're basically a piece of furniture. Honestly, it’s intimidating. But then there’s Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts.
Located in Raynham and Canton, Massachusetts, this place feels more like a community center that just happens to be run by a UFC legend. Joe Lauzon, the man behind the name, is one of the most decorated lightweights in the history of the Octagon. He’s got 15 post-fight bonuses. That’s insane. But if you met him at the gym, he’d probably just chat with you about computer science or his kids. He doesn't act like a superstar. He acts like a coach.
The Story Behind Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts
Joe Lauzon didn't just wake up and decide to be a gym owner. It was a slow burn. He started training at 15—kinda late compared to the "prodigies" we see now—and worked as a network administrator while fighting. You’ve probably seen the highlight reels of him upsetting Jens Pulver at UFC 63. He was a 7-to-1 underdog. He won in 48 seconds.
He took over the gym from his original trainer around 2009. For years, it was just a "training ground." It wasn't really a business; it was a place for Joe and his brother, Dan Lauzon, to get ready for their own fights. Around eight years ago, everything shifted. Joe realized that while training pros was a fun "pet project," the real heart of a gym is the families.
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Today, the student body is a wild mix. You’ll see three-year-olds learning to tie their belts next to guys like Peter Barrett or Randy Costa preparing for professional bouts. It’s a weird, beautiful ecosystem where the UFC veterans actually help the beginners.
What You’re Actually Getting Into
Most people show up because they want to "get in shape," but they stay because they realize hitting a treadmill is boring as hell. Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts focuses heavily on three main pillars:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
This is Joe's bread and butter. He’s a black belt under Danny Savery and has some of the most technical grappling in MMA history. The BJJ program here isn't just about "rolling." It’s about leverage. The classes are designed so a smaller person can actually handle someone much bigger. You’ll find separate tracks for beginners and advanced students, so you don't get your neck squeezed by a purple belt on day one.
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Kickboxing and Striking
If you want to sweat, this is it. The kickboxing program is led by instructors like Jimmy—who everyone seems to rave about—and UFC vet Peter Barrett. It’s a mix of Muay Thai and Western boxing. You learn how to throw a proper leg kick without shattering your own shin.
The Kids Program
This is where the gym has seen the most growth. They have over 250 kids enrolled. They focus on the "basics first" philosophy. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about balance, agility, and—most importantly—respect.
A Different Business Model
You won't find those predatory, "sign your life away" contracts here. Joe has been very vocal about his "no contracts" policy and first-month introductory pricing. He wants people to be there because they want to be there, not because a legal document is forcing them.
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The staff is also a bit unique. Many of the instructors are "college-educated," as Joe often mentions. Take Matt Perry, for example. He’s a 6th-grade science teacher by day and a BJJ instructor by night. Having teachers who actually know how to teach makes a massive difference in how quickly a student learns a complex move like a triangle choke.
Why This Gym Matters in New England
New England MMA has a gritty reputation. It’s the "Old Guard" style. Lauzon MMA keeps that toughness but adds a layer of professional systems. They use high-volume scheduling so you can actually find a class that fits a 9-to-5 job.
Honestly, the results speak for themselves. The gym recently had a huge showing at NAGA (North American Grappling Association) with students like Ryan Morris and Bridget putting in work. It’s not just about Joe anymore; it’s about the next generation of New England martial artists.
Common Misconceptions
- "I need to be in shape to start." Nope. That's what the classes are for. Most people start at zero.
- "I'm going to get hit in the face." Only if you want to. Sparring is optional and heavily supervised.
- "It's only for fighters." Total myth. About 80% of the members are just regular people looking for a hobby.
Actionable Next Steps for Newcomers
If you’re thinking about checking out Lauzon Mixed Martial Arts, don’t just show up unannounced.
- Book an Intro Class: They usually offer a free or discounted intro session. This is a one-on-one or small group setting where they show you how to move before you join a big class.
- Bring Water and a Towel: You’re going to sweat. More than you think.
- Check Both Locations: If you’re closer to the South Shore, the Canton location might be better than the main Raynham spot.
- Ask About the Gear: Don't go out and buy a $200 Gi or expensive gloves yet. They often have loaner gear or beginner packages that are much cheaper.
The culture at Lauzon's is built on the idea that everyone was the "new person" once. Whether you're trying to lose 20 pounds or you want to eventually step into a cage, the path starts with showing up and being okay with knowing nothing for a little while.