TESTIMONIALS
"I first met Matt in 1999 and have watched him develop and evolve over the last 10+ years from martial arts student, to amateur level fighter, professional fighter and beyond. After his retirement from competion in 2010, Matt focused on coaching a new generation of warriors and started up 12 Gauge MMA. I still get down there from time to time.
Matt is an incredible coach. First of all he is a real student of MMA. He still studies videos, books, articles, anything.. just to pick up the new techniques and ideas. Secondly, he has a very calm persona, which means he teaches in a very relaxed manner. This gives his students a great atmosphere to learn in and creates the time for Matt to focus on the fine details of the techniques he is teaching.
With years of fighting and coaching behind him, Matt is an ideal person to gravitate to if you want to learn every aspect of MMA. From keen beginner through to seasoned professional, you will learn something from Matt. I know I still do!"
Aaron Chatfield
Assitant Coach Team Colosseum / Former M1 Team England coach
I've been involved in the Martial Arts world for over 25 years and coached for half of those. During that time I've trained with very few coaches that are as willing to share their knowledge and experience as Matt Thorpe is. He is a true expert in his field and always strives to deepen his understanding. In the years I've known Matt he has always shown an ability to involve the latest ideas and cutting edge coaching techniques. He produces great fighters with his approach. I regularly invite Matt to teach at my gym and have no hesitation in recommending training with him and at his gym - 12 Gauge.
I have sent several of my competitive fighters to train at 12 Gauge with great success and will continue to do so. 12 Gauge is proving to be a formidable force in the MMA world and Matt '12 Gauge' Thorpe is the engine driving it forward.
Dave Kari
Head Coach Voodoo Gym
12 Gauge MMA is a unique Mixed Martial Arts Centre welcoming everyone who walks through the door whether younger, older, male or female, fighter or hobbyist everyone benefits from world class MMA training taught by the Legendary 12 Gauge himself. The great comradeship amongst students is second to none in any gym I've trained in around the country everyone mucks in to help beginners get the basics and fighters train for fights. I'm proud to call myself a 12 Gauge MMA Team member.
Councillor Patrick McAuley
Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council / 12 Gauge MMA member
I have been training at 12 Gauge MMA for about 6 months now and absolutely love it. I was a complete beginner to martial arts but have found it to be great fun as well as a great workout. Matt ensures we all get the utmost from our sessions and regardless of age, gender, level, we are all treated equally.
Being a woman at the club isn't a problem either, all the guys have been friendly and helpful from the get go. MMA is great sport whether looking to compete or simply get fit, I would highly recommend 12 Gauge MMA to anybody.
Michelle
12 Gauge MMA member
No time is ever wasted at 12 Gauge MMA, every session is dedicated to our learning and development in MMA. Matt Thorpe has a very clear coaching method and a technical ability to aspire too.
Simon Home
12 Gauge MMA competion team member / 12 Gauge MMA Kick Boxing coach
I have trained and fought alongside Matt for a long time. Since he has started coaching I have seen a different side to him. He breaks down techniques in a way that makes them simple and effective. Matt is a natural coach and will be a trainer of champions, highly recommended!
Ian Butlin
M16 MMA Head Coach and former M1 Challenge Team Member
Matt is a true professional inside and outside of the cage, his clear coaching style makes it easy to take on board his advice and to have him in your corner is a true honour. 12 Gauge MMA has a great social atmosphere with a driven and successful competition team. Overall 12 Gauge MMA is the place to be if you are looking to be an MMA fighter or you just want a fun hobby!
Carl Burton
12 Gauge MMA competion team member / Voodoo Gym Assistant MMA coach








