Tyson Johnson wears many hats in the combat sports world. Known as “The IronMan,” he serves as the professional ring announcer for LightsOut Xtreme Fighting and the Gladiator Challenge promotions while running the Universal Grappling Academy in Victorville, California. Now Johnson has added published author to his resume with the release of multiple book series available on Amazon.
Johnson’s literary ventures span three distinct categories, each targeting different audiences within and beyond the martial arts community. His newest release, “The UGA Athletes Training Guide,” focuses on mixed martial arts and fitness instruction, joining his existing combat sports book series. The guide draws from Johnson’s experience training students at his academy, offering readers insights into athletic conditioning and MMA techniques.
Taking a different approach, Johnson has also created “The UGA’s Little Grappling Lessons,” a children’s book series that uses martial arts themes to teach positive life lessons. The series aims to reach both young readers and adults, incorporating values and character-building messages through engaging storytelling.
Beyond sports-focused content, Johnson has expanded into social commentary with his American Issues book series. The third installment has recently been released, joining the first two books in addressing contemporary topics from his perspective as an athlete, business owner, and community member.
All of Johnson’s books are available for purchase on Amazon.com or directly from the Universal Grappling Academy facility. The academy, which Johnson describes as the “#1 Mixed Martial Arts, Fitness and Sports Conditioning facility in California,” serves as both a training center and a distribution point for his publications.
Johnson continues to balance his multiple roles in the combat sports industry while developing his writing career. His work as a ring announcer keeps him connected to the professional fighting scene, while his academy provides hands-on experience training the next generation of athletes. This diverse background informs his writing across all three book series.
The UGA Athletics program remains central to Johnson’s activities, offering training in mixed martial arts and fitness conditioning. Those interested in learning more about the academy or Johnson’s work can find additional information on Facebook under Ugamma or on Instagram at universal_grappling_academy.
Johnson’s expansion into publishing represents a natural evolution for someone deeply embedded in the martial arts community. By creating content that ranges from technical training guides to children’s literature and social commentary, he demonstrates the broad appeal and life applications of combat sports principles beyond the ring or cage.