Jaco Du Plessis is one of the pillars of CIT Performance Institute — a coach who leads with experience, intensity, and quiet consistency.
A decorated professional MMA fighter, Jaco has competed on some of the biggest stages outside of the UFC, including UAE Warriors and the EFC, where he established himself as a technical, durable, and strategic athlete. His fight style is a balanced blend of power, precision, and composure — traits he now passes down to the next generation of fighters coming through CIT.
But Jaco’s impact goes far beyond his fight record.
As one of CIT’s longest-standing MMA coaches, he has played a key role in shaping the development of countless amateur and professional athletes. Whether he’s on the mats teaching striking fundamentals, breaking down fight strategy, or pushing athletes through high-pressure rounds, Jaco’s coaching carries the weight of real experience. His ability to remain calm under pressure makes him a stabilizing presence for fighters in competition prep — exactly the person you want in your corner.
Jaco has also become a vital part of our Strength & Conditioning coaching team, bringing the same discipline and work ethic from the cage into the weight room. He knows firsthand what it takes to build a fighter — physically and mentally — and he coaches with a focus on longevity, strength, and sustainable progression.
He teaches what he lives. At CIT, Jaco isn’t just a coach. He’s part of the foundation.
With years of competition behind him and a growing influence as a coach, Jaco continues to elevate both the athletes and the culture of CIT Performance Institute — one training session at a time.