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Jeff Matthysen

Jeff Matthysen developed backyard family lessons into local MMA classes.

Biography

Jeff Matthysen learned stand-up, clinch and ground skills with Manny da Silva and at Valhalla MMA. After moving to Kampersrus, he studied groundwork with Felipe Costa. When he found no local mixed martial arts classes, he began teaching his sons in their backyard. Growing participation brought Ramon Bezuidenhout’s invitation to Mariette Boxing Gym, with help supplying mats and equipment. In Letaba Herald’s December 2023 interview, Matthysen emphasized groundwork and invited experienced practitioners to contribute. The group had demonstrated at a Hoedspruit Paws charity event; holiday classes were still planned.

Sources for this profile

  • Letaba Herald, 2023.(opens in a new tab)

    • Matthysen’s 2023 account describes stand-up, clinch and ground learning with Manny da Silva and Valhalla MMA; groundwork with Felipe Costa in Kampersrus; sons’ backyard classes meeting local MMA demand; Ramon’s Mariette invitation and equipment; groundwork teaching, invited contributors, a Hoedspruit Paws display and holiday plans.

      Where in the source: Interview.

      Accessed:

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