Kyven Gadson

Kyven “Showtime” Gadson

Co-Owner & Head Wrestling Coach

The Champion’s Standard

Kyven Gadson is a name that needs no introduction in the state of Iowa. As the Co-Owner and Head Wrestling Coach at Myriad Mixed Martial Arts Academy, Kyven brings the mindset, work ethic, and technical mastery of a world-class athlete to the Ames community. He is not just a coach who teaches technique; he is a mentor who teaches what it takes to perform at the absolute highest levels of combat sports.

A World-Class Wrestling Pedigree

Kyven’s grappling resume is legendary. Wrestling for the Iowa State Cyclones, he was a three-time All-American and a three-time Big 12 Champion. His collegiate career culminated in winning the 2015 NCAA Division I National Championship at 197 pounds—delivering one of the most famous finals performances in recent history by pinning future Olympic Gold Medalist Kyle Snyder.

Following his historic collegiate run, Kyven transitioned to the international freestyle circuit, becoming a multi-time U.S. Open Champion and representing Team USA globally as a National Team member. He carries on a proud family legacy of Iowa State wrestling, following in the footsteps of his late father, Willie Gadson.

Transition to MMA & Coaching Philosophy

Never one to shy away from a new challenge, Kyven has successfully taken his elite grappling base into the cage, making a highly anticipated—and victorious—professional MMA debut in late 2025.

As a coach, Kyven focuses heavily on the mental aspect of combat sports. His philosophy is built around the idea of "thriving, not just surviving." He teaches his students how to build a championship mindset, overcome adversity, and develop relentless forward pressure. In his wrestling classes for MMA, he focuses on seamlessly adapting elite collegiate and freestyle wrestling techniques to work against the cage and integrate with striking.

Community Leader Off the Mats

Kyven’s vision for Myriad MMA extends far beyond producing tough fighters; his ultimate goal is community building. Holding a degree in Child, Adult, and Family Services, Kyven is deeply invested in the personal development of youth and adults alike. Outside of the gym, he serves as the Director of Development for the Iowa State Foundation, utilizing his platform to give back to the university and the city that helped shape him. For Kyven, martial arts is the ultimate vehicle to bring people from diverse backgrounds together and help them become the most intentional, creative versions of themselves.

Quick Facts:

 * Specialties: Elite Takedowns, Cage Wrestling, Top Control, Mindset & Peak Performance.

 * Background: 2015 NCAA D1 National Wrestling Champion; Team USA Freestyle National Team Member; Undefeated Pro MMA Fighter.

 * Vibe: Inspiring, intense, and deeply community-focused.