Mike Winkeljohn
Mike Winkeljohn
8th Degree Black Belt
Associate Master of the Arts
Founder Of Wink’s Gym
Partner at Jackson’s MMA
Mike Winkeljohn’s journey in American Kenpo began long before the founding of the American Institute of Kenpo. He trained directly under the legendary Bill Packer and became a proud member of the elite “Team Elite” — a select group of advanced black belts. Even in those early years, Mike stood out as a dedicated martial artist, school owner, and one of the most respected contact fighters of his generation.
After graduating high school in 1980, he turned professional in kickboxing. Competing throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he compiled a strong record of 25-7-2 and captured multiple world championships in both Muay Thai and kickboxing.
In 2018, Mike was formally awarded the rank of 8th Degree Kenpo Black Belt (Associate Master of the Arts) by Sigung Stephen LaBounty, Bob White, John Sepulveda, and Lee Wedlake.
From 1986 to 1998, Mike and his exceptional teaching staff provided Andrew Pilch with his foundational training in Kenpo, kickboxing, boxing, and MMA. Since the founding of AIK, Mike has continued to offer valuable guidance and mentorship. He remains one of the key Advisory Leaders Mr. Pilch turns to for insight and advice.
After stepping away from competition, Mike partnered with Greg Jackson to co-found Jackson Wink MMA, one of the most successful fight teams in the world. Under his striking expertise, numerous world-class fighters have prepared for and competed in the UFC and other major organizations.
Mike & Heather Winkeljohn
IncredAble Adaptive MMA™
Smart Girl Self Defense™
Together with his wife Heather Winkeljohn — who holds degrees in Teaching and Psychology and is the author of the powerful book On Autumn’s Wing (which chronicles their daughter’s traumatic birth and brain injury) — Mike has created meaningful programs that extend far beyond the cage. They co-developed IncredAble Adaptive MMA™, a groundbreaking program that brings the benefits of martial arts to youth and teens facing physical, cognitive, and environmental challenges in a safe, nurturing environment.
They also co-teach Smart Girl Self Defense™, an empowering program designed to give girls and women of all ages practical awareness, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills in a supportive, non-intimidating atmosphere.
The American Institute of Kenpo is deeply grateful to Mike and Heather Winkeljohn. Not only for the outstanding example they set, but for the invaluable lessons, inspiration, and lasting memories they have shared with so many students over the years.
~ Last Updated 5/16/2026