New Martial Arts Training Facility Opens in Hebron, Nebraska

New Martial Arts Training Facility Opens in Hebron, Nebraska
First-Ever Jiu Jitsu Offering in Thayer County

Hebron, NE – A new chapter in fitness and self-defense has arrived in Hebron with the opening of a martial arts training facility at 416 Lincoln Ave. Led by instructor Michael Hawkins, the facility offers Thayer County’s first-ever Jiu Jitsu program, along with affiliations in Muay Thai and law enforcement-based training.

The newly renovated space spans 20 x 70 feet, including a 18 x 40 foot mat area designed for both beginner and experienced martial artists. Classes are held five days a week from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with Saturday designated as an open mat session for all skill levels.

Hawkins brings a proven wealth of combat sports experience to the mat. He has trained in Bang Muay Thai under former world champion kickboxer Duane Ludwig in Denver, Colorado, developing a deep understanding of striking systems at the highest level. He now brings that same striking system to Hebron. His four years of Jiu Jitsu training in South Florida were complemented by specialized strength and conditioning work at Daru Strong Performance in Boca Raton, FL, where he received direct mentorship and hands-on shadowing under world-renowned performance coach Phil Daru, 6 time MMA trainer of the Year by Fighters Only Magazine

Since 2014, Hawkins has been a competitive MMA fighter, traveling nationwide to train with top gyms and elite athletes—studying, refining, and adopting the habits, routines, and technical approaches that produce successful, high-performing fighters.

This is what one of Michael’s students said when asked about Michael:

“I’ve been to many different gyms and trained with many fighters over the years on my MMA journey. I've committed my whole life to this sport, and finding an environment that's meant for you as a fighter or combative athlete is special! The first time I met Michael at “Blue Collar” for their first open mat he welcomed everyone; from new to experienced, and treated them the same. He is highly interested in your abilities and wants to help you reach that new level not just at class but in life, and that's hard to find! The environment he built here is for EVERYONE to come in and use the day to get a little better and learn how to carry it over to life, professional fighting, or even your day to day motivation.”

Hunter 'Steamboat' Green- 4-0 amateur MMA fighter. He fights on the 23rd in Omaha and Michael will serve as his corner/coach. 

Hebron Jiu Jitsu  is also affiliated with the “Adopt a Cop” non-profit organization, which supports law enforcement officers in learning self-defense skills. The program allows for one local law enforcement officer to train (FOR FREE) until receiving the rank of Blue Belt. 

The building itself holds special meaning for Hawkins. As a teenager, he worked as a dishwasher at the old VFW—part of the same building now transformed into the training center. After the location was purchased on June 23, renovations began in July, turning the former VFW and (most recently) True Value into a modern training space. Additional office spaces in the building are available for rent—interested parties can contact Michael directly. 

“It is a humbling feeling to be able to come back to my hometown after so much time rebuilding myself, and rebuilding a few buildings along the way.”

Amenities include contrast therapy options, such as an ice bath and sauna, which are available to the public without a membership requirement. The facility is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where students can learn, train, and grow. Most Importantly, provides the necessary space for athletes who care about their development, improvement, and performance. Michael hopes this unique addition to Thayer County will open up many possibilities and opportunities for the local community. 

Previously, Hawkins had to travel up to two hours to find high-quality training. Thanks to the relationships he’s built over the years, instructors and training partners will now be traveling to Hebron to share their expertise. One such opportunity that Michael excitedly shared is the Husker wrestling camp that the studio will host on September 27th, featuring 3 athletes from the UNL wrestling team. 

Caleb Smith, Runner‑up at the 2025 Big Ten Championships. 

Liam Cronin-2019 U‑23 World Team Trials Champion

LJ Araujo- U20 World Championship – Bronze (2024)

“Growing up in Thayer County, there just were not opportunities like this when I was still in school, now I am in a special position. I want to build something to sustain my own personal Martial Arts training, but also put these resources closer, so that others can also benefit from these sports. I will be working hard to curate several seminars a year, where people can learn from some of the best in the world.”

Hebron MMA exemplifies how innovative small businesses can thrive in Thayer County. TCEDA encourages all entrepreneurs with bold, unconventional ideas to pursue their ventures here. Enterprises like this not only enrich our local economy, but also draw new visitors to our community, helping to position Thayer County as a true destination. In small-town Nebraska, there is no greater asset than the unwavering support of friends and neighbors who champion one another’s dreams.

For more information, visit hebronmma.com or contact Michael Hawkins at [402-971-8320].