Sacramento State Announces First University-Backed Combat Sports Development Program
In a groundbreaking move, Sacramento State has partnered with UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber to establish the first university-backed combat sports development program. Known as Combat Sports and Martial Arts University, or Combat U, this innovative program will provide collegiate training opportunities for students aspiring to pursue professional fighting careers in mixed martial arts (MMA), boxing, wrestling, muay thai, and jiu-jitsu.
President Luke Wood expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Sac State, in its effort to be at the forefront of creating academic opportunities for a diverse and engaged student body, will attract, develop, and mentor the brightest prospects from around the world, creating a legacy of champions and building on our legacy of educational accessibility.” This initiative highlights the university’s commitment to supporting student athletes as they strive for success both in the arena and the classroom.
Open to both men and women, Combat U will be coached by current professional fighters and former world champion kickboxers and professional boxers. Managed through the University’s Department of Athletics, the program will collaborate with Ultimate Fitness, a renowned MMA gym located near the campus and home to Team Alpha Male, Faber’s MMA training program.
In addition to offering elite training, Combat U participants will have access to a strong educational path, setting them up for success whether they choose to pursue professional fighting careers or not. The program also ensures that students will receive the same level of safety and sports medicine support as other competitive athletes at Sacramento State.
The inaugural meeting and workout opportunity for students interested in Combat U is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 23, at Urijah Faber’s Ultimate Fitness gym, with the program set to officially launch in the Fall 2024 semester.
This historic collaboration between Sacramento State and Urijah Faber marks a significant milestone in the development of collegiate combat sports programs, providing students with a unique opportunity to merge their athletic pursuits with a top-quality education. With its focus on fostering a new generation of champions, Combat U is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of combat sports.
