Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Crawford.
Hi Ryan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey started back in 1994 when I was six years old. I grew up in a difficult environment, and martial arts became both an outlet and a lifeline for me. What began as Taekwondo classes in College Station, TX quickly became a foundation for confidence, discipline, and purpose. After moving to Paris, TX, I continued training and eventually started teaching, which opened my eyes to how powerful martial arts can be in shaping lives not just my own, but others’.
In 2005, I earned national titles in Taekwondo, which was a milestone for me, but it also humbled me later when I joined the U.S. Army as an Infantryman. Military training exposed gaps in my skill set and pushed me to broaden my understanding of real-world combat. During my deployment to Iraq, I trained in Krav Maga and Judo, and after returning home, I explored Catch Wrestling, MMA, and eventually found my passion for Muay Thai. That path led to earning my Kru Certification under Master Toddy through the Education Department of Thailand and the MTIA.
Over the past three decades, martial arts has transformed from something that helped me survive my childhood into something that allows me to help others thrive. Today, my mission is to inspire, empower, and guide my students not just to become better fighters, but to become stronger, more confident human beings. My current focus is on growing Warriors Legacy Mixed Martial Arts and eventually building a world-class facility that brings a 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu affiliate to Paris, TX.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Even though owning my own gym was a lifelong goal, it took a lot of hardship before I finally took the leap and broke out on my own. For more than two years, I was teaching in a fitness gym while still working for Choctaw Nation Public Safety. During that time, I saw major issues in the training available locally, especially the hand-to-hand defense techniques being taught to officers who regularly dealt with suspects.
I knew I could help. I had the background, the combat experience, and the skill set. But despite being a combat veteran, my input wasn’t really welcomed, and I was told it was better to stick with what had always been done. At the time, it was frustrating, because my goal was to make officers safer and reduce the need to escalate during public interactions.
Looking back, though, that roadblock was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Being shut down pushed me to leave that chapter behind and fully commit to the Warrior lifestyle. It gave me the drive to open my own gym, create the training environment I knew was needed, and build something that could genuinely help people.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Warriors Legacy Mixed Martial Arts is more than just a gym! It is a community built on discipline, growth, and the Warrior lifestyle. We specialize in 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu–inspired techniques, Muay Thai, and Krabi-Krabong, offering a well-rounded approach to self-defense, combat sports, and personal development.
What truly sets us apart is our focus on discipline and character, not just physical skill. Every technique we teach is paired with lessons that our students carry into their everyday lives, including confidence, accountability, respect, and the resilience to handle real-world challenges. We’re not just building fighters, we are building stronger people.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the culture we’ve created. Warriors Legacy represents empowerment, community, and a path toward becoming the best version of yourself. Our goal is to provide training that’s authentic, effective, and rooted in a true warrior ethos. Whether someone is here for self-defense, fitness, competition, or personal growth, we offer high-level instruction and a supportive environment to help them get there.
What I want readers to know is simple: at Warriors Legacy MMA, everyone has a place. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, we’re here to help you tap into your potential and discover what you’re truly capable of.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When it comes to finding a mentor or building a strong network, the biggest advice I can give is to stay humble, stay curious, and stay willing to put yourself in the room with people who know more than you. Some of my biggest breakthroughs came from simply asking questions, showing genuine interest, and being willing to learn even when it meant stepping outside my comfort zone.
Show up consistently. Train hard. Be respectful. Support others without expecting something in return. When you build relationships through authenticity and shared passion, the right opportunities tend to find you.
At the end of the day, mentors are drawn to people who are motivated, coachable, and committed to growth. If you carry yourself with that energy, you’ll attract the guidance and connections you need along the way.
