The Dream That Wouldn’t Let Go
It took me nearly ten fights to realize why I kept showing up at the gym every day. Winning was never the point. I was fighting to protect the kid I once was. The one who never had the courage to stand up for himself.
When I was younger, I had this grand vision in my head of being a professional MMA fighter. I remember watching the sport explode into the global spotlight, amazed by the grit and heart those athletes had. Deep down, I knew I’d find my way into the ring one day.
Six years ago, I finally walked into a martial arts gym, looking for something that would push me out of my comfort zone. I had just graduated from college and started my career as a financial analyst. Most people don’t expect a guy in finance to be a competitive kickboxer, but for me, the two worlds fed each other. In fact, the same analytical skills I used to problem solve at work helped me sharpen my skills as a martial artist and vice versa.
That mindset carried over into my career. I joined Guidewire just over a year ago, and it already feels like home. As Commissions Admin for our Sales organization and finance business partner for Marketing, I’ve had the chance to work with some amazing people. My team has been my biggest supporters, both at work and through every step of my competitions. Knowing they’re in my corner has helped push me through some of my most difficult times.
Finding Strength in the Toughest Moments
I won my first National Muay Thai tournament in October 2021. My first fight was the most exhausting thing I’ve ever done. I remember sitting on the stool between rounds, lungs burning, not sure if I had the strength to continue. But I reminded myself I only had two minutes left. I pushed through and won, limping out of the ring with a swollen foot. Hours later, I fought again.
As much as I wanted to call it, I knew I couldn’t. My willpower was stronger than any doubts trying to hold me back.
Fast-forward two years to the WAKO World Kickboxing Championships in Portugal, where I found myself facing off against the #1 ranked fighter. That tournament drained me. Physical exhaustion from training camps, making weight, the mental pressure. It all left me questioning if I wanted to keep going.
After I lost, a part of me thought I was done. But the fire never really went out. I imagined a conversation with my younger self and realized I wasn’t just fighting for him anymore. I was fighting to prove I’d become the person he always needed.
Nine months later, I laced up the gloves again and stepped back into the ring.
The Road to the World Championships
This November, I have the opportunity to represent Team USA at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi. The first time I wore the Team USA gear in Portugal, nerves nearly got the best of me. But today, I’m a more complete fighter. My defense is sharper. I understand the rules better. I’ve grown from being just a striker to someone who appreciates all facets of the game, including the mental and spiritual components that go into it.
I have enough confidence to step into the ring with anyone, on any given day.
I’m grateful for my teammates, coaches, family and colleagues who’ve cheered me on every step of the way. Later this September, I’ll head to Canada to compete in an International Kickboxing tournament. Perfect preparation for Abu Dubai.
I’m ready. And I can’t wait to bring you along for the ride.