Ascension Athletics promotes the constant pursuit of elevating both mind and body through athletic endeavors. Utilizing various martial arts such as Muay Thai, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Wrestling, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing, and Karate, we have designed an atmosphere that promotes confidence, fitness, family, and safety. From kids to adults and from those looking to just sweat to those looking to compete professionally in combat athletics, we offer programs suited to assist you in climbing to new heights!
Matt Bessette:
19–7 Professional Mixed Martial Artist (Featherweight), Reality Fighting Lightweight Champion (2010), Global Fight League Lightweight Champion (2011), Brown Belt — Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Fabiano Teles), Brown Belt — Judo (Serge Bouyssou), Northeast/New England #1 Featherweight (2016), New England P4P #1 Fighter (2016), Submission of the Year (2015 Bessette vs Roddy), Performance of the Year (2014 Bessette vs Nunes), Upset of the Year (2014 Bessette vs Nunes), Fight of the Year (2012 Bessette vs Proctor), Fight of the Year (2011 Bessette vs Kaponis), Bellator Season 10 Featherweight Tournament Semi-Finalist (2014)
Jeff Haddad:
5–0 Professional Mixed Martial Artist (Bantamweight), Reality Fighting Bantamweight Champion (2011), KO of the Year (2012 Haddad vs McGlaughlin), Fight of the Year Nominee (2015 Haddad vs Cotito), Nationally Ranked NCAA DII Wrestler (7th - 2008), College Wrestling MOW (AIC 2008-2009), Connecticut State Champion Wrestler (2005), 1–0 in Muay Thai (Amateur), 2x New England Freestyle Champion - Nieves/Ahmadi, 3x NAGA East Coast Grappling Championships - AVD No-Gi (2nd), Coach of Connecticut State Champions Wrestling– Old Saybrook/Westbrook, Coach of Connecticut State Runner-Up Wrestling – Bristol Eastern, CPR, AED, Concussion, & First Aid Certified
