John Donehue Jiu Jitsu & MMA Melbourne

Unit 6/278 Ferntree Gully Rd, Notting Hill VIC 3168, Australia

4.9 (87 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Judo MMA Muay Thai Self-Defense Striking Wrestling

Classes

Adults Classes Advanced Classes All Levels Black Belt Instruction Fundamentals Kids Classes

Facilities

Mat Space Parking

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Offering classes in Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai and Boxing. Our expert coaches provide unparalleled guidance for all ages and skill levels.

https://johndonehuemma.com.au/

(03) 9544 5820

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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at John Donehue Jiu Jitsu & MMA Melbourne. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Reviews

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Michael J

2 years jiujitsu class, from zero to hero

Classes
Posted 1 year ago
Aref Mekaeel

Great gym with great people, coaches are very beginner friendly and you can definitely see how much experience they have under their belt. Been going for around 2 months and have already learnt a lot and I look forward to going to every class. Definitely recommend if you want to start training any combat sport.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Katrina Zhang

Our family has been active members in this gym for about 3 years now. It's definitely one of the best gyms to train Jiujitsu and MMA, especially as a woman. I feel safe and respected in this gym. Our three kids also train here. They LOVE the coaches! They've helped our kids grow in their confidence, self discipline and of course skills to protect themselves. Highly recommend!!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Yohan

Since joining in 2018, this gym has really become a second home for me. The familiar faces and the sense of community are just as important to me as the training itself, and the supportive environment makes it easy to feel welcome for those stepping onto the mats for the first time. Head Coach, along with the entire coaching team, are incredibly knowledgeable, approachable and deeply invested in each student's growth. Training in a room filled with passionate mentors and teammates who are genuinely committed to supporting each other's development has made my time here very rewarding. The culture of camaraderie and mutual respect that is deeply valued in the gym is something hard to find anywhere else, inspiring everyone to be better—not just in their sport, but as individuals. Highly recommend this gym to anyone looking to try something new, push their limits, or become part of an incredible community.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Shaun Hurley

Such a great place to learn with such a knowledgeable and friendly group of people. Head Coach Donahue has a wealth of experience in so many different areas that none in Australia could possibly match, and has built a team around him that brings the best out of the many people who get the opportunity to learn there. Its a great experience visiting there, which starts as soon as you walk through the door with the front desk staff which greet you with warm smile and do anything they can to get you set up. It continues when you step foot on the mat and whatever class you choose to join the coaches are welcoming and so much to teach you in their areas of expertise. I highly recommend anyone give this place a try regardless of whether you are experienced in martial arts of are thinking of learning something completely new.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Radz Je

I started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at John Donehue Jiu Jitsu & MMA in July 2023, and it’s been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. Having never done any form of martial arts before, I was a little nervous about starting, but from the very first session, I was welcomed with open arms by the incredible coaching team and the friendly community at JD. The coaches at JD are outstanding. The BJJ instructors are not only highly skilled but also patient and approachable, which is invaluable for someone starting out like me. They break down techniques in a way that’s easy to understand and always take the time to ensure you’re progressing at your own pace. Their encouragement has made every session both challenging and fun. The wrestling coaches are equally phenomenal, bringing a level of energy and professionalism that makes learning this art an absolute joy. Their expertise and attention to detail have given me a strong foundation and the confidence to keep improving. The atmosphere at JD is something truly special. It’s a place where people of all skill levels and backgrounds come together, united by a shared passion for martial arts. The sense of camaraderie on the mats is inspiring, and the support from both coaches and training partners has kept me motivated and eager to show up to every class. Training at JD has not only helped me develop my BJJ and wrestling skills but also improved my fitness, mental focus, and overall confidence. It’s been such a positive influence on my life, and I genuinely look forward to every session. I couldn’t recommend John Donehue Jiu Jitsu & MMA enough for anyone considering starting their martial arts journey or looking to level up their training. Thank you to the incredible team at JD for creating such a welcoming and professional environment.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Carlos Martiniano

"I recently joined John Donehue Jiu-Jitsu and MMA gym and I'm thoroughly impressed! The coaches are extremely knowledgeable and genuinely care about each student's progress, whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete. The facility is well-equipped and maintained, creating a welcoming and safe environment for training. Classes are not only challenging and rewarding but also a lot of fun. I’ve already noticed significant improvements in my skills and fitness level. Highly recommend to anyone looking to learn martial arts or elevate their fitness in a supportive community."
Posted 2 years ago
Lachlan Gomatos

Joining John Donehue Jiu Jitsu & MMA is undoubtedly one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. Not only has this gym helped me get in to the best physical shape of my life, it’s allowed me to meet some amazing friends and turned in to a second home. After hearing about the legendary achievements of coach I was in awe & extremely grateful to learn the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from someone with such pedigree despite having no experience myself. Outside of coach himself, every single class is taken by someone with a wealth of knowledge & great attitude towards teaching which makes taking part in something physically challenging a breeze & lots of fun. It speaks volumes of the culture that has been built in this incredible place and I am so blessed & grateful to be a small part of it. The facilities are extremely clean and well maintained, every time I come in I’m always greeted with a smile. Thank you to the amazing staff, and coaches of JD’s for helping to change my life every session for the better. If you’re hesitant to join, like I was - please give it a try, you won’t look back. After my first year here, I can’t wait for the many years to come.
Posted 2 years ago
Rudy Garcia

Couldn’t recommend JDs any higher, since my first session everyone involved with the gym from coaches, to staff, to students have all been amazing to train with. Everyone there from brand new to seasoned veterans are all willing to help you learn and develop across all the disciplines. Whether competition focused or fitness focused, they tick every box and make you feel welcome. Loved every minute of it!
Posted 2 years ago
Harrison Bright

I’ve been fortunate enough to train at John Donehue Jiu Jitsu and MMA for nearly 2 years now, in that time the skills I’ve learnt and the friends I’ve made, will be worthwhile for years to come, classes are professional but friendly, catering to all levels, from those who just want to learn to those looking to compete. The coaches are helpful and knowledgeable in their respective disciplines, and have truly supported me throughout my time there. Coach is someone that many travel to learn from and for good reason. This gym has helped me physically get in shape, mentally turn my life around and I would not feel half as good as I do now in my day to day life without this gym. 100/10, highly recommend.
Posted 2 years ago
Nick Mason

Joining this gym has been the most meaningful and life changing decision of my life. The most experienced, cleanest, friendliest and welcoming gym in Melbourne. For two years now I’ve been a member of and pupil under Coach. The personal development one can achieve under the guidance of coach and the other world class coaching staff, both as an athlete and as an individual are incomparable. The management staff of the gym are the most friendly and welcoming to all students, new or returning. The facilities are very well maintained and cleaned meticulously. Filled with modern equipment, clean spaces and always a welcomed smile. Whether or not you’re seeking to develop a new skill, dip your toes into a martial art, start a new hobby, make new friends, become a world class competitive athlete or more importantly grow into a better person through training a martial art, look no further than John Donehue Jiujitsu and MMA. Join the family and see where your martial arts journey can take you
Posted 2 years ago