Training Alongside a UFC Fighter — What It's Like at Unity MMA

Published by Unity MMA · Albany, North Shore Auckland

Most gyms can say they have experienced coaches. Not many can say their head coach competes in the UFC. At Unity MMA in Albany, Auckland, Ollie Schmid — co-founder, head coach, and professional UFC fighter — trains and teaches on the same mats as the membership.

This is what that actually means for everyday members.

Who Is Ollie Schmid?

Ollie Schmid is a New Zealand professional mixed martial artist who made his UFC debut in May 2026, becoming one of the few Kiwis to compete in the world's premier MMA organisation. He founded Unity MMA alongside his business partner Barnaby, with the goal of building a world-class training environment on Auckland's North Shore that was accessible to everyone — not just elite competitors.

Ollie has been training martial arts his whole life. He coaches MMA, oversees the technical direction of the gym's programmes, and continues to train and compete at the highest level while running Unity MMA day-to-day.

What Does It Mean For Members?

When your head coach competes in the UFC, the standard of instruction reflects that. The techniques taught at Unity MMA are the same techniques that work at the highest level of professional fighting — not watered-down curriculum designed to fill class time.

Members regularly train alongside Ollie during his own training sessions. He's accessible, genuinely invested in member progress, and brings the experience of professional competition to every session he coaches. There's no separation between "the elite guys" and "everyone else" — the mats are the same, and the coaching quality doesn't change based on who you are.

The Culture It Creates

Having a UFC-level competitor as head coach sets a standard — not just technically, but culturally. At Unity MMA, there's no tolerance for ego, no hierarchy based on experience level, and no culture of intimidating beginners. Ollie is direct about the fact that the gym's reputation is built on the culture, not just the results.

The result is a gym where serious competitors and complete beginners genuinely train alongside each other. Members who've never thrown a punch in their life train on the same mats as fighters preparing for professional bouts.

Is This Gym For Me If I'm a Beginner?

Yes — and this is one of the most common misconceptions about high-level gyms. Because the coaching quality is higher, beginners often progress faster. You're getting accurate technique from day one, rather than habits that need to be corrected later. Beginners at Unity MMA consistently describe it as the most welcoming gym environment they've experienced.

Where to Find Us

Unity MMA is at 19B William Pickering Drive, Rosedale (Albany), Auckland on New Zealand's North Shore.

Your first class is always free. Meet the full coaching team → or read more about Ollie Schmid →