Kevin Smith brings over two decades of martial arts and combat sports experience to Mecca MMA. A former high school wrestler, he expanded his training through Judo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kamido Aikido, and traditional Jujitsu, earning a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt (IBJJF-USBJJF) along with advanced ranks in Judo, Jujitsu, and Aikido. Kevin has trained across multiple states under a wide range of instructors and philosophies, shaping a structured and thoughtful teaching style. His classes focus on fundamental movement, goal-oriented drills, technical instruction, and live application. He values pairing students of different sizes to teach grit, discipline, and control. Kevin takes pride in watching students apply new skills under pressure and develop confidence through challenge and persistence.

Coach Nick Flores brings 35 years of martial arts experience to Mecca MMA, grounded in both traditional and modern systems.  He earned his black belt in Traditional Tae Kwon Do over three decades ago and has trained extensively in American Kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  His passion for martial arts began in the early 1990s and was reinforced as mixed martial arts emerged on the world stage.  As a coach, Nick is driven by progress… watching students overcome challenges, sharpen technique and build confidence through consistency.  His philosophy centers on the Three D’s: Discipline, Determination and Dedication, reinforcing that growth comes from commitment and effort.  Nick values the strong sense of community forged through shared training and takes pride in helping students develop confidence, resilience and lasting pride in their work.

As a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Coach Jon is drawn by its physical demands and mental depth. After initial hesitation, encouragement from family led him to his first class, where he quickly found structure, challenge and purpose.  As a coach, Jon encourages students to push their limits while maintaining an approachable and supportive environment.  His classes emphasize hard work paired with moments of levity, reinforcing focus without losing enjoyment.  Jon believes training builds discipline, confidence, emotional control and problem-solving skills through repeated exposure to uncomfortable situations.  He teaches students to stay composed under pressure, think critically and adapt in real time.  Jon values the strong sense of community created through training and believes the lessons learned through consistent effort and challenge translate directly into everyday life.