Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs recently trained with renowned MMA coach Firas Zahabi, known for coaching Georges St-Pierre and training with boxing legend Mike Tyson. The session was documented on social media, showing Gibbs working on combat techniques.
Zahabi, head coach of Tristar Gym in Montreal, has a background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has worked with numerous elite athletes. Gibbs, a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is known for his agility and speed, which could benefit from cross-training in martial arts.
This is not the first time an NFL player has sought training from Zahabi; other athletes have used his methods to improve footwork and reaction time. Gibbs is preparing for the 2026 NFL season after a strong sophomore year with the Lions.