Martial Arts Classes in Montgomery - Serving Prattville, Wetumpka, and Beyond
EXPERIENCED COACHES. REAL PEOPLE.
Michael Bateman - Founder & Head Coach
A husband, father, and coach, Michael Bateman has dedicated much of his adult life to helping others grow through the martial arts. With more than two decades of coaching experience, he brings a unique combination of technical ability, practical knowledge, and genuine passion for helping people grow on and off the mats.
Often described as "Child, Family, & Fighter Approved" Coach Bateman is equally comfortable encouraging our youngest students, guiding adults through their first martial arts experience, or preparing accomplished athletes for competition.
He is a 1st Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a 6th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, and experienced competitor and an accomplished MMA coach who remains actively involved in teaching and developing students at every level.
Known for his approachable personality, straightforward instruction, and personal investment in his students, he believes great coaching extends beyond developing skilled martial artists and competitors and that the values of confidence, resilience, and adaptability are applicable in every aspect of life.
"I'm just a hard knock kid saved by grace, and blessed to share my experience, and faith with others through the martial arts." - Coach Bateman
Lindsey Bateman - Program Manager
A wife, mother, and martial artist, Lindsey plays an essential role in the daily operations of NXG Combat Sports. Often the first person families meet when visiting our academy, Lindsey brings a welcoming personality and a genuine commitment to helping students and families feel at home.
A Taekwondo Black Belt and former instructor of our youth program, she understands martial arts from both a student's and instructor's perspective. Today, she oversees scheduling, memberships, and student services while helping ensure the academy maintains the consistency and professionalism families deserve.
"As a wife and mom, consistency and organization is mandatory to sustain a busy life, and I ensure our academy takes that same approach to make your life easier!"
- Mrs. Lindsey
Coach Jeremy - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
A father, martial artist, and dedicated coach, Jeremy's journey at NXG began in 2018 when he started training alongside his children. What began as a shared family activity developed into a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and eventually a leadership role within our academy..
Today, Jeremy serves as the lead instructor of NXG's Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program. Drawing from his experience as both a parent and experienced BJJ competitor, he brings a unique perspective to helping young students develop confidence, discipline, and technical ability.
Beyond coaching, Jeremy is the founder of Mission on the Mats, a faith based initiative supporting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Bible Studies, with NXG serving as its home base.
Coach Hieu - Assistant Striking Coach
From youth student to adult athlete and coach, Hieu's journey represents the opportunities for personal growth and development at NXG Combat Sports.
Beginning his martial arts journey in our youth program, Hieu spent his formative years building his skills, confidence, and personality through training and competition. Along the way, his dedication evolved into a desire to share his knowledge with the next generation while continuing his own development as a competitive athlete.
Today, Hieu serves as an Assistant Striking Coach, bringing an energetic coaching style, a sharp eye for technical development, and a high IQ for strategy.
Coach Tiara - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Known for her warm smile, positive energy, and genuine desire to help others succeed, Tiara exemplifies the encouragement and enthusiasm that defines the NXG Coaching Team.
She has been a member of our team for more than six years and has become a supportive mentor helping welcome more women into our adult class, while also providing support to our youth program. Tiara helps create an environment where students feel comfortable learning and challenging themselves both on and off the mats.
Drawing form her own competitive experience, Tiara also helps students interested in preparing for the challenge and excitement of their first competition experience.
Coach Ben - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
A lifelong learner, dedicated martial artist, and military veteran, Ben brings a unique combination of discipline, professional experience, and technical knowledge to the NXG Coaching Team.
With more than a decade of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience, Ben joined our academy in 2020 and earned his Black Belt under Professor John Ouano in 2024. An accomplished IBJJF competitor across multiple belt levels, he combines his firsthand competitive experience with a thoughtful approach to technical development.
Beyond the mats, Ben holds a PhD and continues more than 20 years of service in the United States Air Force. He is the head of NXG's Early Morning BJJ Program!