Our head instructor James Wilks took some time earlier this month to visit the unveiling of a new gym on the USNS Carl Brashear. Here are some excerpts from the article written by the Navy Compass:

“USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) held a grand opening of its new shipboard gym May 15, taking the opportunity to invite Mr. James Wilks of “Ultimate Fighter Challenge” (“UFC”) fame to commemorate the event.

Mr. Wilks came aboard on Friday afternoon to a very excited crew.  Mr. Wilks is a famed Mixed Martial Arts expert and head instructor at his gym, Lightning MMA (www.lightningmma.com), in Orange County, California.  He is currently the favorite to win this year’s Ultimate Fighter Challenge, being broadcast on national television.

Cmdr. Ernie Harden, Officer in Charge of the Military Detachment, kicked off the ceremony by acknowledging the generous support from Mr. James Wilks and MWR, Southwest.  Mr. Wilks returned the honor by expressing his admiration for Master Chief Brashear’s determination, the ship’s namesake, quoting him as saying, “it’s not a sin to get knocked down, it’s a sin to not get back up.”

This quote struck home with Mr. Wilks as he stood among the crew, sharing his latest experience in “UFC.” During a “UFC” bout he was knocked down, but he overcame this setback to finish the fight and win.  After rousing applause, Mr. Wilks cut the ceremonial ribbon and “opened” the gym to its first patrons.

Mr. Wilks provided a few mementos for the ship to commemorate this special occasion, including his pair of UFC gloves, worn in his latest fight against Frank Lester, and an autographed t-shirt, both of which will be displayed in the gym for all to see.

After the gift exchange, Cmdr. Harden invited the crew, led by Mr. Wilks, to view the newly furnished gym.  MWR, Southwest Region, provided top of the line Hoist weight equipment and essential rubber floor mats to provide a fully outfitted, state of the art facility.  Mr. Wilks also posed for multiple photos and signed autographs for the crew.

Mr. Wilks expressed his gratitude and support to today’s Navy and military personnel for all the sacrifices made in defense of the country.  Now, the crew of USNS CARL BRASHEAR has a state of the art fitness facility, opened by Mr. James Wilks, and with additional special mementos provided by an Ultimate Fighter champion.”

-Written by Andrew Lovgren, USNS Carl Breashear Public Affairs

James Wilks at USNS Carl Brashear Gym Unveiling

Lightning MMA is excited to see the support from the US Navy and is always happy to support our troops. James was flattered to receive the invitation by the crew of the USNS Carl Brashear and hopes he will have more opportunities to show his support for our troops in the future. Come drop by anytime for a free training session with James!