AllStar Martial Arts

AllStar Martial Arts has been a fixture in Union, New Jersey since 2011, run by head instructor Jamal Patterson. Patterson brings a direct Renzo Gracie lineage as a fourth-degree black belt, ADCC veteran, and former professional MMA fighter with experience in the IFL, Bellator, and UWC, where he earned a light heavyweight title. Raised in New Jersey and a Blair Academy wrestling alum, Patterson’s coaching roots and competition-tested background shape the academy’s approach and curriculum. His focus is on genuine instruction—coach first, salesperson never—and the school remains family-owned and independent. The academy offers adult programs in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA for students ages 16 and up. Training is structured for both beginners and experienced practitioners, with evening classes designed for commuters. Patterson’s curriculum draws from his years on the mats and in the cage, and his network brings in guest coaches and seminar opportunities for students interested in deepening their game. Kids programs are split into age-appropriate groups: Cubs (ages 4–6) and Lions (ages 7–13), with a focus on confidence, discipline, and real technique—not watered-down drills. Each class is built for the people in it, not as scaled-up or scaled-down versions of another program. Located on West Chestnut Street with free parking and a full mat space, AllStar is not a franchise or belt factory. The academy’s approach is practical and straightforward: no long-term contracts, no pressure sales, and a culture where beginners are paired with experienced partners and egos are checked at the door. Students from Union and surrounding towns find a room where lineage, real coaching, and tested martial arts come first.

Amenities