Federal agents at the FBI’s training academy are getting an unusual assist this weekend as some of the toughest names in mixed martial arts step onto the mats at Quantico. FBI Director Kash Patel announced that several UFC fighters will lead a special tactics seminar for agents at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The event, scheduled for this weekend, will give both academy students and senior FBI personnel the chance to train alongside professional fighters known for elite-level combat skills.
“I’m thrilled to announce this historic seminar between the FBI and the UFC at Quantico,” Patel said in a statement released by the UFC.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our FBI agents to learn and train with some of the greatest athletes on earth — helping the world’s premier law enforcement agency be even better prepared to protect the American people.”
According to the UFC press release, fighters and coaches will walk agents through elements of how they prepare for high-level competition while also demonstrating techniques and tactical movements that could be useful in real-world situations. The goal is to provide agents with additional perspectives on physical training, discipline, and controlled combat.
The session will also feature UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard, who will help guide discussions on training methods used by professional fighters.
UFC CEO Dana White praised the partnership and said the organization is proud to work with federal law enforcement.
“I have tremendous respect for the FBI and the work they do every day to protect this country,” White said. “Our UFC fighters are some of the baddest men and women on the planet, and they are heading to Quantico to train the best FBI agents in mixed martial arts. It’s an incredible opportunity for our athletes to experience, and we’re proud to support the FBI in strengthening their defense techniques.”
The group of fighters expected to participate includes interim UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, BMF champion Jorge Masvidal, former middleweight champion Chris Weidman, former strawweight title challenger Claudia Gadelha, lightweight contender Michael Chandler, flyweight contender Manel Kape, and MMA legend Renzo Gracie.
