FBI Director Kash Patel Announces Partnership with UFC to Train Agents at Quantico

Kash Patel announces that UFC stars like Justin Gaethje and Jorge Masvidal will train FBI agents at Quantico. Explore the new law enforcement combat partnership.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 12, 2026, 7:21 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from HuffPost

A Shift in Bureau Training Culture

In a move described as "historic" by bureau leadership, FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Wednesday that the agency is formalizing a training relationship with the UFC. The partnership marks a significant departure from traditional law enforcement training protocols, aiming to infuse professional combat sports expertise into the bureau’s defensive tactics curriculum. FBI trainees at Quantico will now have direct access to athletes specialized in grappling, striking, and submission techniques to prepare them for the physical demands of field operations.

Quantico Hosts MMA Legends

The inaugural seminar at the FBI Academy features an elite roster of instructors known for their technical proficiency and physical toughness. The visiting team includes:

Justin Gaethje: Interim UFC lightweight champion.

Jorge Masvidal: The first UFC "Baddest Motherfucker" (BMF) champion.