World Headquarters

Train Where Champions Are Built

Combat Submission Wrestling®

Learn directly from Erik Paulson, founder of Combat Submission Wrestling and STX Kickboxing, and one of the most respected pioneers in modern mixed martial arts.

CSW
Erik Paulson, founder of Combat Submission Wrestling

Why Train With Erik Paulson?

A Lifetime Dedicated to Martial Arts Excellence

Some instructors teach techniques. Erik Paulson has spent more than four decades studying, competing, coaching, and refining martial arts at the highest levels.

As the founder of Combat Submission Wrestling and STX Kickboxing, Erik has trained world champions, UFC fighters, military personnel, law enforcement professionals, instructors, and students from around the world. Today, that same knowledge is available to every student who walks through the doors of the CSW Training Center.

First American Shooto World Champion

Erik made martial arts history by becoming the first American to win a Shooto World Championship in Japan.

Founder of Combat Submission Wrestling

CSW blends striking, clinch work, takedowns, submissions, catch wrestling, shoot wrestling, and real transitions into one complete system.

Founder of STX Kickboxing

STX Kickboxing brings together striking, movement, timing, defense, and tactical pressure into a practical stand-up fighting method.

Coach to World-Class Fighters

Erik has coached and influenced professional fighters, champions, instructors, and serious martial artists across the world.

Over Four Decades of Experience

His background includes decades of training in Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Catch Wrestling, Shoot Wrestling, Muay Thai, MMA, and more.

World Headquarters in Fullerton

The CSW Training Center is the world headquarters where Erik continues to teach, develop, and pass on the system.

Start Here

Claim Your Free Trial

Come experience the CSW Training Center for yourself. No pressure, no experience required. Just visit the academy, meet the team, and see if CSW is the right fit for you.

Start Your Free Trial
01

Choose Your Path

We will help you find the program that fits your goals.

02

Visit The Academy

Meet the instructors, see the facility, and get comfortable.

03

Step On The Mat

Experience the training, the community, and the energy of CSW.

Experience The CSW Difference

More Than World-Class Instruction

Train in a serious, supportive environment built around growth, respect, and lifelong learning.

Private martial arts instruction at CSW Fullerton
01

Train With Purpose

Every class is built to help you improve skill, confidence, discipline, and performance.

02

Learn From The Source

Train at the World Headquarters of Combat Submission Wrestling, directly connected to Erik Paulson’s system.

03

Find Your Community

Students support one another, grow together, and create a training environment that feels like home.

04

Progress At Your Pace

Whether you are brand new or experienced, there is a path for you on the mat.

Every student starts somewhere. Every champion started with a first class.

Schedule Your First Visit

Real Stories From The Mats

What Training At CSW Means To Our Students

Real experiences from students and families who have found confidence, community, and growth through training at CSW.

★★★★★

“Jiu-Jitsu has completely changed my confidence. I truly learned that I can defend myself regardless of size, age, or weight.”

Lori Lombera

★★★★★

“The knowledge Coach Paulson has accumulated throughout his career is truly unmatched. Being part of his lineage is a privilege.”

Frank Martinez

★★★★★

“The atmosphere, coaches, and family environment were impossible to resist. CSW has truly become our gym family.”

Nicole Rogers

★★★★★

“The coaches are outstanding, the academy is welcoming, and every class helps students grow both on and off the mats.”

David Licona

Join the students and families who have begun their journey at CSW.

Start Your Free Trial

Academy Tour

Take A Look Inside CSW

Get a feel for the academy, the training floor, and the environment before you visit.

Like what you see? Come experience it in person.

Start Your Free Trial

Elite-Level Proof

Built By A Legend.
Trusted By Champions.

For more than three decades, Erik Paulson has coached world champions, UFC fighters, Hall of Famers, ADCC champions, and elite submission grapplers. His influence extends across generations of martial artists and throughout the highest levels of combat sports.

40+ Years Of Experience
9 Champions Featured
CSW World Headquarters
Erik Paulson coaching at CSW Training Center
Josh Barnett

Josh Barnett

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion

Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar

Former UFC Heavyweight Champion

Sean Sherk

Sean Sherk

Former UFC Lightweight Champion

Cub Swanson

Cub Swanson

UFC Veteran

Ken Shamrock

Ken Shamrock

UFC Hall Of Famer

Renato Babalu Sobral

Renato “Babalu” Sobral

Former Strikeforce Champion

James Wilks

James Wilks

Winner Of The Ultimate Fighter

Kade Ruotolo

Kade Ruotolo

ADCC World Champion

Tye Ruotolo

Tye Ruotolo

ONE Welterweight Submission Grappling World Champion

The next success story could be yours.

Begin Your Journey

Before You Step On The Mat

Everything You Need To Know Before Your First Visit

Have questions before you come in? Here are the answers most new students and families want to know before visiting the CSW Training Center.

I’ve never trained before. Can I still join?

Absolutely. Many of our students step onto the mat for the very first time with no previous martial arts experience. Our programs are designed to help beginners learn at a comfortable pace while providing plenty of room to grow as your skills develop.

Do I need to be in shape before starting?

Not at all. You do not get in shape before joining a martial arts academy, you get in shape by training. We will meet you where you are today and help you progress at a pace that is right for you.

What should I wear to my first class?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely. We will take care of everything else and answer any questions when you arrive.

What ages do you accept for children’s classes?

We offer several youth programs based on age and experience. Give us a quick call, and we will help you find the class that is the best fit for your child.

How often should I train each week?

That depends on your goals. During your free trial visit, we will talk about what you would like to accomplish and help you build a training schedule that fits your lifestyle.

Can I watch a class before participating?

Absolutely. We would be happy to schedule a time for you to visit the academy, watch a class, meet the instructors, and get a feel for the environment before stepping onto the mat.

Do you offer a free trial?

Yes. Simply contact our front desk and we will schedule a convenient time for you to visit the academy and experience a class for yourself.

How do I know which program is right for me?

That is exactly what we are here to help with. During your first visit, we will learn about your goals, answer your questions, and recommend the program that is the best fit for you.

Still Have Questions?

We are here to help. Give us a call, stop by the academy, or schedule your free trial today. We would love to meet you.

(714) 726-0134

Start Your Free Trial

Private Coaching

Accelerate Your Progress

Personalized coaching built around your goals.

Private coaching at CSW Training Center

Sometimes the fastest path to improvement is personalized instruction. Whether your goal is competition, self-defense, fitness, or simply becoming a better martial artist, our coaching staff can create a focused training experience designed specifically for you.

  • Individual Coaching
  • Small Group Sessions
  • Competition Preparation
  • Technical Development
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • For Every Skill Level

Ready to accelerate your training?

Request Private Coaching

World Headquarters of Combat Submission Wrestling

Your Journey Starts Here

Every expert was once a beginner. Every black belt took a first class. Every champion stepped onto the mat for the first time. Your journey starts today.

CSW Training Center

4080 Palm Street
Fullerton, California 92835

(714) 726-0134

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

Thank You For Training With Us

Share Your Experience

Your feedback helps future students discover the CSW Training Center and become part of our community. If you have enjoyed your experience, we would truly appreciate you taking a moment to share it.

Free Trial!

Fill out the form below and our program director, Trent Meaux, will be in touch with you within 24 – 48 hours!

 Academy Address: 4080 Palm St, Fullerton, CA 92835

Phone: (714) 726-0134