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TRAIN LIKE A WARRIOR

About 

 

Location - South Loop

Warrior Evolution
329 W 18th St #405
Chicago, IL 60616

773-910-1995

 
 

Warrior Evolution MMA is a gym located near the south loop of Chicago where people come together for MMA training developed to strengthen & condition the mind, body, & spirit of your inner warrior to promote continual evolution of one’s journey. Through the philosophy of Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do (JKD), we teach mixed martial arts (MMA) which includes techniques from boxing, kickboxing, MuayThai, wrestling, jiu-jitsu,and judo. Our curriculums cover both offense and defense which is applicable in cage fighting and overall street self-defense. All techniques are taught step by step and shown in the most effective and efficient ways possible.

With that being said, fitness is a pillar of our program. Our fitness classes are equipped with the highest level of physical training to enhance our fighters’ training and athletic ability. Our programs are suitable for people looking to evolve in the sport while becoming healthier individuals.

We believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for all our members, regardless of their training background. That’s why our instructors work closely with each student to ensure their safety, proper application of techniques, and personal growth. No one needs to fail so one can succeed. Success is available to all that work towards it and at Warrior Evolution MMA, we work towards it every day as a family!

No matter your background, skill level, or goal, you’re welcome here.

COACHES

 

All of our trainers and instructors are home grown. Everyone has trained together, learned together, and have worked together to create a family atmosphere for everyone that comes in.

Sean “Tazz” Lau

(head coach)

Specializations
MMA Offense/Defense Training

Sean is the owner and head instructor at Warrior Evolution MMA. He started his martial arts journey back in 2006 when he joined the wrestling team his freshman year of high school. After his last season wrestling, Sean made the jump and started training MMA in 2010. Three years later marked his first MMA fight before he focused primarily on teaching and coaching the competitors.

In 2016, Sean earned his First Degree Black Belt in Jeet Kune Do under Dion Riccardo, a direct student of Dan Inosanto. After spending time as a manager and then business partner for other top MMA gyms, Sean decided to open Warrior Evolution MMA in 2019.

His goal is to show everyone that everyone has a warrior in them. All the skills and philosophies learned through MMA can be applied to every day life. He teaches all the Advanced Skill Training classes as well as coaches the sparring team.

Check out Sean’s Instagram

Bilingual instructor: english/español

I always felt like I never belonged anywhere until I came into the gym and met my coach Sean “Tazz” Lau” who taught me the world of MMA. He saw something in me and believed in my potential when I didn’t do that for myself.

-Nereida Garcia

 

Karla Garcia

(Manager, COACH)

Specializations
NASM, DARU STRONG CERTIFICATION-MMA PERFORMANCE. SKILLS MMA. SELF-DEFENSE.

Karla began training MMA in 2014 and quickly learned and adopted the martial arts lifestyle. When the gym needed help, Karla stepped up without hesitation. Within her first year of training she began helping out with the kids class and the adult mma basic class.

Karla earned her First Degree Black Belt in Jeet Kune Do under Sean in 2018. With her experience in MMA and personal training certificationS, Karla has put together programs to help the competitors be in top physical condition for whatever competition they are participating in.

Click here to learn more about online fitness.

Check out Karla’s Instagram

Bilingual instructor: english/espaÑol

 

As an absolute beginner I have been given such meaningful personalized instruction from Karla. I truly can’t imagine a better person to introduce me to this new practice. She already pushes me farther then I think I can go. 

-Nathan Bishop

 
 

WARRIOR evolution mma LEADERS

 
 

LEO SOLIS

(MMA FIGHTER, fight team assistant COACH)

Leo is a true example of what it means to lead with heart, discipline, and purpose. As Warrior Evolution’s first Amateur MMA Champion, Leo has competed in both grappling and MMA competitions throughout his decade-long journey in martial arts, earning an impressive amateur record of 7-2 and capturing his first title with Maximus Promotions.

A man of faith, Leo’s spirit is grounded in his commitment to God, hard work, loyalty, family, and the desire to uplift those around him. His kindness and humility shine through in everything he does; whether he’s training for a fight, helping a teammate sharpen their skills, or offering private lessons to help sharpen the next generation of fighters.

Leo’s impact goes beyond the cage. His dedication to his craft and his genuine care for others have made him a respected role model and leader within our community.

We’re proud to have Leo as part of the Warrior Evolution MMA family; both as a champion and as a leader who inspires through faith and action.

 

ZACH BEKIELEWSKI

(sECOND dEGREE BLACK BELT, assistant coach)

Zach is one of the most technical martial artists you’ll find at Warrior Evolution MMA. With over 15 years of experience in MMA, zach understands what it takes to be a warrior.

His loyalty to Warrior Evolution MMA and dedication to his training have made him a true example of what it means to live the martial arts lifestyle.

With an impeccable work ethic and a genuine willingness to help others, Zach continues to make a lasting impact on our young students who, like him, are looking for self-development and discipline through Martial Arts.

He currently leads by example during our morning live grappling sessions and evening technique classes, where his technical skills and mentorship continue to elevate the level of training.

We’re proud to have Zach as a dedicated student, loyal team member, and respected leader within the Warrior Evolution MMA family.

 

NEREIDA GARCIA

(fIRST dEGREE bLACK bELT, fIGHTER, SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING)

Nereida “Naynay” is a proud leader at Warrior Evolution MMA and the gym’s very first female MMA fighter. With an undefeated record in grappling competitions, she’s not only made her mark as an athlete but has also paved the way for our younger female competitors.

As someone who has competed in both MMA and jiu-jitsu, Naynay knows firsthand what it takes to dominate in competition.

Her relentless pursuit of success has pushed her beyond competition and into the world of business and social media marketing, where she plays a key role in growing Warrior Evolution MMA

Outside the gym, Naynay continues to lead and inspire as the host of the Tazz Knows podcast and on her own YouTube channel, where she shares her journey and gives voice to stories that matter.

She’s a true example of what it means to lead by action, and we’re proud to have her as part of our growing warrior Evolution family and leadership team.