Welcome to Redemption MMA & Fitness, where we believe in more than just fitness and martial arts – we believe in the strength of faith, community, and perseverance. As a veteran-owned gym, we understand the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, build mental toughness, or find a supportive environment, we are here to help you every step of the way.

At Redemption, we are committed to taking care of you. Our experienced trainers will work with you to create a personalized fitness plan that aligns with your goals, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete. We provide a welcoming, motivating, and faith-centered atmosphere where you can push yourself, grow stronger, and feel supported in your journey.

Our foundation is built on the belief that strength comes from within – not just in your body, but in your spirit. We integrate faith-based values into our training programs, encouraging personal growth, integrity, and perseverance in all aspects of life. This is a place where you can improve physically and spiritually, knowing that every step forward is a victory.

Come join us at Redemption MMA & Fitness – a place where strength is nurtured, both inside and out.

About us

Boxing

Boxing is a combat sport and martial art where two opponents fight using only their fists, usually while wearing gloves, and aiming to land punches on each other within a set time frame, typically in rounds. It's a sport focused on strategic striking, defense, and physical endurance.

Services Offered

Muaythai

Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a martial art and combat sport originating from Thailand. It is known as the "Art of Eight Limbs" due to its use of punches, elbows, knees, and shins for striking. The sport also incorporates clinching, sweeps, and throws.

Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art, combat sport, and self-defense system focused on grappling and ground fighting. It emphasizes techniques like chokeholds, joint locks, and strategic positioning to subdue an opponent. BJJ is known for its effectiveness in self-defense, even against larger opponents, as it utilizes leverage and technique over brute strength.

Click the link to buy your Elite GI now!

https://www.elitesports.com/collections/brazilian-jiu-jitsu-bjj-gis

Strength and Conditioning

Strengthening and conditioning, often referred to as strength and conditioning (S&C), is a comprehensive approach to physical development that combines strength training with conditioning exercises to improve overall athletic performance and reduce injury risk. It involves exercises that enhance strength, power, speed, agility, and endurance, tailored to individual needs and goals.

About the Head Coach

Meet Nathaniel Deptula

Nathaniel Deptula is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, striking coach, entrepreneur, and the founder of Redemption MMA & Fitness in Taylors, South Carolina. With years of experience in Muay Thai, boxing, strength & conditioning, and combat athlete development, Nathaniel has become known for helping athletes sharpen both their physical abilities and mental discipline inside and outside of competition.

Throughout his coaching career, Nathaniel has worked with professional fighters competing in organizations such as BKFC, Bellator MMA, professional boxing, and high-level Muay Thai events. His athletes have competed on major stages in front of large live audiences and millions of viewers worldwide, earning victories through disciplined preparation, intelligent game planning, and relentless work ethic.

Known for his calm but demanding coaching style, Nathaniel focuses heavily on fundamentals, timing, conditioning, fight IQ, and building complete martial artists. His approach blends technical precision with accountability and personal growth, helping fighters develop confidence under pressure while continuing to evolve at every stage of their careers.

As the founder and head coach of Redemption MMA & Fitness, Nathaniel has built more than a training facility — he has built a culture centered around hard work, respect, discipline, and community. Redemption MMA has become recognized throughout the South Carolina combat sports scene for producing skilled competitors while also providing a welcoming environment for beginners, hobbyists, veterans, and athletes of all backgrounds.

Beyond coaching fighters for competition, Nathaniel is passionate about mentorship and transformation through martial arts. He believes combat sports have the power to build character, resilience, and purpose, whether someone is preparing for a professional fight or simply working to become a stronger version of themselves.

Nathaniel’s professional background includes certifications and education in multiple areas of athletic performance and coaching, including:

TRX Suspension Training
HIIT Performance Training
Plyometric & Explosive Movement Development
Kettlebell Coaching
Flexibility & Mobility Training
Calisthenics & Functional Strength Systems
USMC Martial Arts Instruction (MCMAP)
Combat Athlete Strength & Conditioning
Fight Performance Programming
Athletic Movement & Conditioning Systems

This diverse background allows him to bring a complete and modern approach to fighter development — combining technical striking, conditioning, mobility, recovery, and performance science into one system.

Nathaniel continues to grow Redemption MMA & Fitness with the vision of creating one of the premier combat sports and performance environments in the country — a place where dedication, humility, and growth are valued just as much as victory.

Meet the Team

Evan Pierce

Pro Boxing Coach
My name is Evan Pierce — a warrior of God, a seasoned professional boxer, and a proud competitor in both Pro Boxing and Bare Knuckle Fighting. My foundation is built on faith, discipline, and an unshakable work ethic. Every time I step into the ring, I carry a purpose bigger than myself — to glorify God, push my limits, and one day claim the title of World Champion in Bare Knuckle Boxing.
Over the years, I’ve gone toe-to-toe with some of the best fighters in the nation, earning respect as a serious force to be reckoned with. But beyond the battles and victories, my greatest mission is to lead others — in the gym and in life.
I’m big on professionalism, hard work, and doing things the right way. When I coach, I give everything I have to make sure my students not only grow as fighters but grow as people. Whether you're chasing competition or just looking to better yourself, I’m here to guide you, challenge you, and help you become the best version of yourself — physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Juliette Pierce

Strength & Conditioning Coach
I’m Juliette Pierce — a fierce competitor, coach, and advocate for strength in every form. I’m a proud powerlifter holding multiple South Carolina state records, an award-winning NPC Bikini competitor, and the reigning Mrs. South Carolina Earth 2022. My passion for fitness isn’t just about the stage or the platform — it’s about results, confidence, and becoming the strongest version of yourself inside and out.
Every training session I lead is fueled by purpose and passion. I believe in pushing limits, chasing goals, and never settling. Whether you're picking up a barbell for the first time or prepping for competition, I’m here to guide you with proven methods, relentless energy, and real support.
My mission is simple: to empower women to realize their full potential. I’m living proof that with hard work, discipline, and belief in yourself, you can get wherever you want to be — and I’m here to help you every step of the way.
Trent Praytor

Jiu-Jitsu Head Coach
Trent Praytor is a faithful man of God with a deep passion for sharing the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with people from all walks of life. A black belt under the legendary Carlos Machado, Trent brings a wealth of knowledge, discipline, and humility to every class he teaches. His journey on the mats is rooted not just in technique, but in purpose—guiding others to grow stronger in both body and spirit.
Known for his warm heart and servant leadership, Trent is more than a coach—he’s a true mentor. Whether he's working with beginners or seasoned practitioners, he leads with patience, compassion, and a genuine desire to see others succeed. His students often speak of the calm, encouraging presence he brings to the gym—a presence that makes everyone feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Trent’s love for Jiu-Jitsu is matched only by his love for people. His ability to connect, uplift, and teach with grace has made him not only a respected instructor, but a beloved figure in his community.