Eugene Crisler: Martial Artist, Community Leader, & Servant Leader
“I don't just teach people how to fight; I teach them how to live with purpose."
Born in Gary, Indiana, and seasoned by over two decades of professional competition, Eugene Crisler is more than just a martial artist—he is a dedicated community pillar based out of the Madison and Brodhead areas. As a professional MMA athlete active since 2004 and the founder of Cardinal BJJ & MMA Academy, Eugene has spent his life mastering the nuances of discipline, resilience, and technical excellence.
His journey is rooted in a deep-seated belief in "servant leadership." Beyond the cage and the mats, Eugene operates CP3 LLC,a parent organization focused on leadership and community wellness, proving that his impact extends far beyond a win-loss record.
The "Why" Behind the Coach
For Eugene, coaching isn't a job; it’s a mission. His "Why" is forged from the fires of a long professional career and the responsibilities of being a father to five children.
 The Power of Lineage & Mastery: Having trained under the technical lineage of Justin Morris, Eugene understands that martial arts is a lifelong study. He coaches to pass down the "pure" form of the art, ensuring his students have a foundation built on proven techniques rather than shortcuts.
 Building the "Sprung" Floor for Life:Just as Eugene meticulously hand-built his academy—from the LVP flooring to the custom wrestling platforms—he views coaching as the process of building a student’s internal infrastructure. He believes that if you give a child or an adult a "flex-base" of confidence and discipline, they can absorb the impacts of life without breaking.
 Family as the Ultimate Team: As a husband to Velette and a father to kids ranging from toddlers to adults, Eugene approaches his academy as an extension of his home. He coaches because he wants to create a safe, high-level environment where families can grow together, learning that the hardest battles are often won through consistency and character, not just physical strength.
 A Legacy of Service: Eugene’s "Why" is rooted in the transition from fighter to mentor. He leverages his 20+ years of experience to help the next generation avoid his mistakes and amplify his successes, ensuring that the Cardinal BJJ & MMA Academy remains a beacon of strength and leadership in Wisconsin.
"The mats are a mirror. They show you who you are when things get tough. My goal is to make sure that when my students look in that mirror, they like the person looking back at them." Eugene Crisler