Ok first all, a MMA fight wont be like a brawl. These guys know alot. There are not any more people like "Tank" left that only were slugfests. 
But honestly if you go to....
Subfighter.com
You may be able to find a gym or two by you. Alot of place have or will let you, if you ask take some classes free. To see if you like them. Basically if you want to compete in any MMA sport you need a stand up game (boxing or muay thai), a ground game (BJJ or judo), and takedown and takedown defence (BJJ, *****, wrestling, judo).
Have fun.
But honestly if you go to....Subfighter.com
You may be able to find a gym or two by you. Alot of place have or will let you, if you ask take some classes free. To see if you like them. Basically if you want to compete in any MMA sport you need a stand up game (boxing or muay thai), a ground game (BJJ or judo), and takedown and takedown defence (BJJ, *****, wrestling, judo).
Have fun.
