Mike Winkeljohn
8th Degree Black Belt
Associate Master of the Arts
Founder Of Wink’s Gym & Partner at Jackson’s MMA
(1962-Present): Mike Winkeljohn, a Black Belt with the American Kenpo Karate Academies (AKKA) under Bill Packer’s organization, has been a student, martial arts school owner, and prominent contact fighter. He was a member of Team Elite, a select group of advanced black belts, and trained under Bill Packer.
Mr. Winkeljohn’s professional career commenced in kickboxing after completing high school in 1980. The majority of his competitive fights took place during the 1980s and 1990s. His impressive record of 25-7-2 as a kickboxer is widely recognized. He has achieved multiple world championships in Muay Thai and kickboxing.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Winkeljohn has garnered a distinguished reputation as one of the most accomplished striking coaches in the realm of mixed martial arts (MMA) and contact combat sports. His knowledge extends far beyond theoretical concepts, as evidenced by the recognition he received in 2018 from Stephen LaBounty, Bob White, John Sepulveda, and Lee Wedlake (a Senior Master of the Arts) when they awarded him the rank of 8th Degree Kenpo Black Belt (Associate Master of the Arts).
From 1986 to 1998, prior to Mr. Pilch’s relocation to Arizona, Mr. Winkeljohn and his exceptional teaching staff provided Mr. Pilch with his foundational Kenpo, kickboxing, boxing, and MMA training. Throughout his career, including prior to, during, and following the establishment of The American Institute of Kenpo by Mr. Pilch, Mr. Winkeljohn has consistently provided guidance and enlightenment to his many students.
Following his retirement from competitive martial arts, Mr. Winkeljohn collaborated with Greg Jackson to establish Jackson Wink MMA. Under Mr. Winkeljohn’s mentorship, numerous world-class fighters have honed their skills and competed in prestigious organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Mr. Winkeljohn, a martial artist and coach, collaborates with his wife, Heather Winkeljohn, who holds degrees in Teaching and Psychology, to develop and implement programs tailored to specific and distinguished community groups. Heather Winkeljohn’s extensive experience includes working as an in-home Developmental Therapist for at-risk children and those with disabilities from birth to three years of age. Prior to this, she taught at the middle school level, assisting students learning English as a second language. Notably, Mrs. Winkeljohn authored “On Autumn’s Wing,” a book that chronicles the events leading up to her daughter’s traumatic birth, resulting in her daughter sustaining a brain injury. Throughout this remarkable literary work, Mrs. Winkeljohn chronicles the extraordinary journey of her family as they navigate the challenges presented by her daughters’ injuries.
Combining their expertise, Mr. and Mrs. Winkeljohn are committed to improving the lives of others. This dedication has led them to establish renowned programs, such as IncredAble Adaptive MMA™ and Smart Girl Self Defense™.
Given her background, it is understandable why Mrs. Winkeljohn founded IncredAble Adaptive MMA™. Mr. and Mrs. Winklejohn strive to empower and provide the skills and benefits of Mixed Martial Arts to youth and teenagers who face diverse environmental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Through their collaborative efforts, they create a safe and nurturing environment for students with challenges, fostering their self-discovery and potential through the transformative power of Mixed Martial Arts.
In addition to collaborating with his wife on the IncredAble Adaptive MMA™ program, Mr. Winklejohn established Smart Girl Self Defense™. Mr. and Mrs. Winklejohn co-teach the Smart Girl Self Defense™ classes to a diverse group of girls and women of various ages. The program’s objective is to impart essential awareness, survival skills, and abilities, empowering participants to acquire practical self-defense techniques in a non-intimidating and enjoyable atmosphere.
The American Institute of Kenpo expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Winklejohn. Not only for the inspiring example he and his wife have set, but also for the invaluable lessons and unforgettable memories they have shared.
~ Last Updated 3/3/2025