Coaches Honored with ‘Jackson/Winkeljohn Day’

Vaunted MMA trainers Greg Jackson and Michael Winkeljohn were honored in Albuquerque on Tuesday when Mayor Richard J. Berry declared it “Jackson/Winkeljohn MMA Day” to distinguish their accomplishments in the area.

Jackson and Winkeljohn, who run the successful Jackson’s and Winkeljohn’s Mixed Martial Arts Academy, were presented with the proclamation at a public ceremony.

“Through their endeavors, Greg Jackson and Michael Winkeljohn have helped to attract greater interest in Albuquerque from folks all over the world,” said Mayor Richard J. Berry in a press release. “They have had offers to move their gym elsewhere, but they have decided to keep it in their hometown. They are truly two of Albuquerque’s favorite sons.”

Jackson and Winkeljohn have played key roles in the careers of UFC welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre, former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Rashad Evans, former WEC welterweight Champion Carlos Condit, as well as UFC veterans Nate Marquardt, Shane Carwin, Jon Jones and Strikeforce middleweight Joey Villasenor.

In addition, Jackson and Winkeljohn have also trained hundreds of local law enforcement officers in self-defense tactics, said the release.