@atd_dice

"Warriors Cup NYC July 2023

This fight I moved up in weight, and it definitely was an experience to feel the size difference in the ring. I'm proud to say I stuck with our game plan against a strong southpaw opponent. The plan was to attack the lead leg with a strong guard, make my opponent worry about his leg so I could throw hands up top.

I fought with all my heart, but the judges awarded my opponent the decision victory. I've learned so much from this fight and gained so much experience that will stay with me as I keep pushing forward. Thank you @warriorscup_3pp for the amazing opportunity! Truly honored and appreciative of the chance to fight for such a great promotion!

Thank you to all of @lotusthaiboxing 🙏🙏🙏. Thank you to all of @disciplemma 🙏🙏🙏. Thank you to my family and friends 🙏🙏🙏. The support/love/encouragement/motivation, everything helped me push through and be able to fight my best fight! Thank you to Kru @whitelotuslopez and @vicvicious123 for cornering me. Thank you to all the Coaches supporting me and giving advice/love (I'm jus tryna be like y'all! 😍🤩😍). Thank you to my teammate @kkolb_, we got through a crazy fight camp and put on a great show together! I'm extremely excited and blessed to be able to continue this journey with everyone - we are never alone in the ring."

@side_show_d

"On May 20th I had my first fight. Didn’t come out with the victory but both me and my opponent put on a great show and I have many things to be proud of. When I told Kru @whitelotuslopez I wanted to fight and he put me down for 170lb I got more nervous to make weight than the fight. Around that time I was about 45lbs out but had about 2 1/2 months to make. I realized then how much faith you had in me to not only make the weight but to be comfortable there and not drained. Thank you to Coaches @ayatelhag and @mochamax47 for guiding on my diet plan and educating on how to cut the right way and not stressing about.

Thank you to Coaches @jepjepn and @olivosjp for helping me improve my clinch. It was something I really struggled with and still have a lot to work on but you guys helped me improved so much fundamentally. Thank you to Coach @whatamenace for the pad rounds and pushing me to stay active with my hands offensively and defensively.

Thank you to Coaches @guerrillamonsoon , @mr.animal_scientist and @p__steinberg . Jits has helped me stay calm in crazy moments and really helped me realizing how breathing can either expand or drain your gas. DONT TAP TO PRESSURE lol

Thank you to all my teammates @lotusthaiboxing . Seeing you guys everyday pushing past hard sparring rounds, doing 60 60s or 100 100s, and just checking in with each other meant a lot. We all know how fight camps can be and having yall in my corner gave me the utmost confidence to what we do best which is fight anyone anywhere anytime.

Again thank you to @mochamax47 . Youve guided me from my smoker to first fight. Always by my side from jits to muay thai everyday pushing me and cementing the mindset I need to succeed. Im forever grateful for all you do not only for me but for our whole family. Thanks Coach

Lastly, @whitelotuslopez . Words cant describe how much you mean to me. Thanks for picking me up at worse and turning me into an fighter and a better man. To me you exemplify what a leader is which putting those lower than you first. Where you go I will follow. Love you Kru❤️❤️❤️"

@whatamenace

"Mentality is a powerful thing. A double edge sword. It truly has the ability to make or break everything you do.

This fight camp has been one of, if not the hardest thing I’ve done mentally. The roller coaster ride of confidence. The amount of training I was able to get in. The pressures of performing. The walkout, the lights, the crowd. I was nervous and everything was getting to my head, down to the very last min.

Kru: It’s just you and him, don’t think about anything else, breathe…
Coach Alonso: *SMACKS* Wake TF up, get out of your head, go out there and do what I know you can.

In the end, we won.

None of this is possible without @lotusthaiboxing and @whitelotuslopez for always giving me that tough love I need and believing and seeing something in me I still don’t. Thank you for saving and changing my life 6 years ago. The amount of respect and admiration I have for you is honestly endless. “Dennis does Dennis things”

@dvngfvm my biggest supporter/hype man/ influence, not just in Muay Thai but in life. One of the main reasons I’m even here! You have been preparing me for this since we were kids! I only wanted to do Muay Thai to fight you! 😘 you have always been there to make sure I don’t do anything stupid and to keep me on the right track! Love ya

@twanprince @stefvphen @mochamax47 for the countless last min advice on technique, flow. To break my movements down, dissect and give the adjustments I need to visually and physically understand, cause your boy hardheaded af 😅

@vicvicious123 @jonathan.nampha @jepjepn @olivosjp @ayatelhag Thank you for all the late night mental clarity. For getting me off the edge every time I wanted to jump. You all kept me grounded and focused on who we are and what we do. 🙏🏼🙏🏼

Thank you to everyone who reached out, the support was truly everything to me.

To the rest of LTB team! Excited for the team and our future! Keep that same energy! 🙏🏼"

@dinarudelson

"Second fight in the books!

I can’t say I am not proud of this fight. Almost three months of grinding 6 times a week all came together and paid off with 6 min in the ring. Watching the fight footage there are still things I wish I could have done better. Nerves got to me and defenses again went out the window. But there were still seconds I took to reset, plan, think this time so an improvement even if small. Still a lot to work on but hey we are all a working progress :) .

To my team: Thank you for coming out and cheering us on. Not going to lie, walking out I was feeling nervous but as soon as I stepped out and turned the corner to see a wave of black shirts I knew I had the largest support team ready to be loud as fuck and carry my energy through this fight. Win or lose it’s always the most amazing feeling coming back to all of you.

To my corners: Thank you for getting us there. You all ran the show checking in on us, getting us to Delaware on weight, and through the fight. Thank you coach @ayatelhag for setting off the savage fight switch in my head with your pre fight talk. Thank you coach @jepjepn for devising a fight plan that best fit my style and walking me through it over and over again when I was feeling nervous. I will always remember when we got to spend 6 hours together in the back locker room and I will cherish this memory.

To my training partners: Nothing has been more hype going through fight camp with ~12 other fighters. Starting with the smokers back in April setting the tone, y’all inspired me to work hard this camp. I always loved finishing pad rounds and looking around to all of us being gassed af but still ready to go another round. This energy carried me. I am ready to keep it going and am excited to pay it forward to our June 10th and Warrior Cup fighters.

To my Kru @whitelotuslopez and @gut_check_championship_series: Thank you for running the whole show. Without you none of this would be possible. Shout out to Gutcheck and @helen1stladyofmma for putting on a kick ass production. The crowd was truly wild this night and each time the locker room door would open the energy would come roaring into the back room."

@jepjepn

"Two months ago, I began another journey to step back into the ring. This time, I was motivated by the lessons of defeat. This time, I was driven by the curiosity of progression - focusing on the reasons why I lost my last fight and turning them into the strongest weapons in my arsenal. Journey’s, however, don’t come without bumps and roadblocks. Fear and doubt constantly filled my head and I found myself in a position where I was ready to abandon the idea of fighting and along with it the desire continue with the camp.

I stepped into the ring with an opponent whom, stylistically, varied greatly from mine. He brought with him high-volume punching along with Dutch-style kickboxing combinations and footwork. Whereas I relied on my traditional Thai stance - guarded, planted, and heavy. Not only did this opponent test me physically, but technically in both offense and defense. In the end, I walked away with a victory and set my sights on new objectives to help improve my style.

Like all fights, achievements are the result of not only my effort, but by the effort of my team. Thank you:

My 2 corners Kru @whitelotuslopez - for always pushing me to better and teaching me that the hardest tests in life bring about the greatest moments and achievements. With the roller coaster of emotions that I was feeling, I thank you for helping me get through that. And Coach @adogloni - for your guidance and support throughout the fight camp and the fight. @jonathan.nampha - for ensuring my hands were wrapped and ready. LTB Coaches - for putting in the time to ensure that I was technically, physically, and mentally prepared for this fight. Fellow TCB/ warriors cup fighters - for keeping the energy high and my focus strong. The LTB Team, the energy that you guys took to class and to the fights brought out the best in me. My awesome friends and family that reached out to me, traveled and showed up, and streamed the fight to support me. I love you all 🥰

Special shout-out to my fasted run crew that got me out of bed every morning and kept me on track with my diet. ❤️

Also, special thanks to TCB fights for having me."

@nicky_nick______

"A lot of people look at fighting as an individual sport because all they see is two people step in a ring. Although it was just myself and another person in there, my team carried me for a month and a half to get me to the level I was at for this fight (more if you count the rest of the time I’ve been training at @lotusthaiboxing). During my fight camp, they gave up pad rounds for themselves and focused on myself during sparring and practicing drills to prepare for this night.

And to everyone that came to support, just know I heard you in that ring and it gave me motivation to keep pushing myself that third round.

@whitelotuslopez you have an incredible gym. I thought it’d be forever until I stepped in the ring but there’s something about Lotus that changes people. I still have a lot to work on and I look forward to giving back for all the future fights as well as those who helped me win mine."

@robby__parks

"This last fight reminds me of the past 7 months. I’ve lost a lot of things this year. Specially two amazing people, who showed me how to be a man, even without a father in my life, as well as how to love the people I have in my life. Life hits very hard, it sometimes makes you stumble, but if you can keep on pushing it’ll all be worth it. I won’t stop going no matter how hard life is. I’ll keep going for the people I lost and the people I have. Just like in my last fight, I may have been stunned but I’m gonna keep coming back harder and harder. I will not quit! Don’t forget who I am. Thank you to the people who helped me through one of the toughest times in my life. Whenever I fight next, it’ll be for you and I won’t leave it up to the judges. A big Thank You to my Kru @whitelotuslopez and @lotusthaiboxing for changing my life."

@tankandbombshell

"Coming home having experienced the tough regiment and training of a fighter in Thailand, people would ask me, what is the most valuable lesson you learned there?

Yes, I met some amazing trainers and fighters. Yes, I learned valuable techniques and honed my skills. Yes, I learned to endure pain and bruises so to callous the mind. But ultimately, my biggest take away derived from not what I have newly learned but a reminder of what I have always known.

Surprisingly, this lesson came to me not after my Thailand training was finished but on my 2nd day there. I arrived to the afternoon training session and there hung our white Lotus shorts(not mine) glistening, drying under the scorching Thai sun. That sight alone, despite of being thousands of miles away, somehow gave me strength.

My mind filled with pride and appreciation for what we have at Lotus. Take away the Thai trainers, language, the heat, and the actuality of being in Thailand, Lotus is as authentic as it gets. The tradition and spirit of authentic Muay Thai truly lives at the heart of Lotus. Everything that Kru Carlos has said regarding the authenticity of Lotus rang true. All the proper training of the "Thai way" at Lotus is what prepared me to get the most out of my time in Thailand. I cannot be more grateful for that. I cannot love Lotus more because of that.

Being reminded that I have always had a home to come back to... The sheer gratitude for the leadership, dedication, and passion of Lotus filled my heart as I wrapped my hands and put on my gloves for another session of hard training."

Name: Abdullah Ali
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 12

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined LTB because My dad wanted us to learn self-defense and wanted us to do something since we stopped playing soccer."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has impacted my life in many ways. I have more confidence. I can beat up my brother. I learned how to defend myself. I also have more discipline and respect. Thank you to Kru and all the other coaches for helping me to learn to defend myself."

Name: Aidan DiBona
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 13

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I originally joined LTB because I wanted to have more confidence in myself along with getting in shape. Additionally, I’ve always wanted to be able to stand up for myself and others. Pushing myself at LTB has been an experience that has taught me many things besides kickboxing."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I have never liked a team sport before but with LTB it’s different. You work hard on your own but have many coaches, partners, and friends challenging you to be better. I have taken some hard rounds of punches and kicks, while the burpees, Smurf Jacks, and sit-ups have made for some tough training. Through it all I’ve become stronger and more confident. None of this would have been possible without Kru and the rest of the LTB family"

Name: Allen Jung
Fight Name: DICE (Destroy Ignorance Create Energy)
Date Joined: Oct 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My first week at Lotus, Kru told the class, 'You do not have to be in a fight, but you will know how to fight. Every day you are fighting'. These words really stuck with me; I believe that to live, is to fight for your personal journey. I joined because I wanted the strength to keep fighting for myself. I am humbled and honored to experience the Lotus family strength."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Training with LTB has re-calibrated my spiritual well-being; I have a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Before it really felt like I was caught in negative loops of self-doubt, being anti-social, & apathy. Now, I am breaking through those loops and fighting to be the best person I am capable of being because my Kru, coaches, and LTB family inspire me to work hard and to be passionate for life!"

Name: Alon Kostezki
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My wife started first at LTB and I joined a week later."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Muay Thai is challenging for me and this is the reason I like it so much. It fits perfectly with school and work, because it helps me stay sharp and focused and reminds me that I can always kick harder and never stop. In LTB I met a group of highly motivated people that go the extra round and always push each other. This is the best environment for success."

Name: Alonso Espino
Fight Name: El Diablo

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I have been training muay thai on and off for the past 3-4 years. I tried different gyms and trained for about a month or two at a time and then stopped. I felt like something was missing in the gyms I trained. I would pick things up quickly, enjoy myself training, but I still felt like something was lacking and it contributed to me being inconsistent with my training. I initially met Kru Carlos when I trained at Disciple MMA a couple years back. Disciple MMA was the perfect fit for me at the time. The atmosphere, the quality training partners, awesome coaching; unfortunately, my commute to Disciple was long and I had a conflict with the training schedule since I was still in college. After that experience, I was training by myself here and there, until I found out Kru Carlos was opening LTB in Fairfax. LTB seemed like a great option since it was closer to where I live and I knew the level of discipline and professionalism Kru Carlos has. I was straight forward with Kru Carlos when I started my journey at LTB. I told him I always had a consistency issue, but would like to see where I could go and how my skills could improve if I stayed consistent with my training. I have been training at LTB for almost a year now (since LTB opened) and my fighting game has completely evolved. I am a completely different fighter from when I first started and definitely more aggressive. We have a good mix of fighters with different styles and everyone pushes each other to get better every day. We all want to see each other improve, we all motivate each other, and we all push each other."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I learned more about self-discipline. I could never see myself running more than 2 miles before training at LTB, now running only two miles seems like I am falling behind my teammates. I could never see myself with a gallon of water at a party during our weight cuts, I could never see myself eating unseasoned chicken, but self-discipline got me to do things I never thought I could. I can’t wait to see what 2017 has in store for the team!"

Name: Ayat Elhag
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I ended up taking a semester off school for my own mental health. I was really looking for something to pass the time and also to prove to myself that I'm not as weak as I felt at that point in my life. I ended up choosing Muay Thai because why not, landing at LTB by chance after googling Muay Thai gyms in the area."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I have a lot to thank LTB for. Depression and anxiety tend to make me feel like a burden or a waste of people's time, but never have a felt that way at LTB. I want to thank Kru for always being so motivating, Coach Stephen for his endless reservoir of patience, and Coach Alonso for always pushing me to grow as a fighter and the rest of the gym for being so accepting. I love seeing myself improve and everyone's collective strength. I am so grateful for being at LTB at this stage of my life, I see myself continuing the sport for a long time, especially since it's reminded me so much of my worth."

Name: Boaz Lyu
Age: 33
Fight Name: TBD
Date Joined: Mar 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"It was an impromptu decision actually. I have followed Coach Steven's(we've been friends for awhile) Muay Thai Journey throughout the years but never thought I would participate in it until few days prior to joining. Perhaps I was looking for different kind of physical and mental challenge. Something that truly pulled me out of my comfort zone. Joining Lotus became one of the best decision I have made in my life. "

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Right out of college, I backpack traveled around the world for more than 6 months. During those moments, I learned and discovered more about myself than the world before me. 10 years later, here I am, embarking on this journey of becoming a fighter and once again learning and discovering a side of me that i did not know existed. My Muay Thai journey under the leadership of Kru Carlos has thus far taught me humility, generosity, mindfulness, and selflessness. Muay Thai not only challenges me physically, but it also pushes me mentally, to the level I have never thought I could reach. Each day I enter Lotus, I always exit as a slightly better person, friend, and a fighter. In 2019, I will be in a ring, fighting my heart out, testing my grit, pushing my will to a whole another level, all while proudly representing Lotus. Lotus to me has become more than a gym. It's family, it's a place of peace and meditation... it's home."

Name: Christina D'Anza
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"To be honest, I had no intention of joining a Muay Thai gym. Momo was searching for a gym near our house and he dragged me to do the free trial class. We attended the very first class at the Annandale location and I was scared of how I would preform and keep up since I had zero martial arts experience. But, after the first class I knew this was the gym for me and a new adventure I didn't even know I needed."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Prior to LTB, I always identified myself as a "lover not a fighter." After being with LTB for 6 months, I am now someone who loves to fight. Someone who fights for what I believe in and fights towards a better version of myself. Kru and our team have not only taught me how to throw a jab or knock someone out with an elbow, but how to push myself to be a little bit better than I was the day before."

Name: Chris Korin
Fight Name: Avalanche
Age: 22 years old (on the inside) and double that on the exterior
Date Joined: Dec 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"One evening, I was at one of my kids activities watching and waiting for their practice to conclude when I had my ‘aha’ moment and asked myself “what am I doing here sitting on my @ss watching when I could be doing something physical that could benefit myself, my health and my overall wellbeing. It was time to write the next chapter in my book (or more like a dummies guide). So, this self-induced sacrifice that I would soon embark on would hopefully allow me to be around longer so that I could spend more quality time in the future with the ones I love most. Well, that’s the story I told my wife in order to get her to buy into me joining a Muay Thai fighting school… and so far, it has worked.

But on a more serious note, as a parent, you constantly give to your kids, especially of your time BUT I think it is okay and healthy to be a bit greedy and to take some of that time back for ourselves, which is exactly what I did. So I did some research and found LTB. Meeting Kru, doing the trial and getting that little taste of vomit in the back of my throat (a taste I haven’t had for a very long time) are what sealed the deal for me!"

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Well for starters and in the physical sense, since joining LTB I’ve pretty much lost most of the sensation in my left leg, from eating so many damn leg kicks :) But aside from that, it has been a wildly amazing and fun ride!

Possibly being double the average age of most members, is what drives me to push myself harder in order to keep up. While I still have sooo much to learn, I feel that I’ve already learned so much in the short span that I’ve been here. Each day a little more than the day prior. Hopefully I’ll start checking more leg kicks soon…

In my personal life, I feel that I have found the balance and inner peace that has been missing. I tried to explain to my wife that there is something very calming about hitting/kicking pads, targets and people… it’s like yoga, it’s almost therapeutic (until they hit and kick back!).

I realized that the only thing that was holding me back from doing this earlier was me… not age. I was my biggest obstacle but I’m here now and that’s all that matters.

Kru, you are the real deal and your coaches are too. I can’t say enough good things about all of you. There is never a dull moment and I have never felt better physically then I do now. So thank you to all for sharing your teachings and experience. My only regret is that I wish I found LTB sooner. To my fellow Nak Muays, thank you for allowing me to join the family!"

Name: Dan Martin
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I was looking for another challenge after earning a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. This was mainly for fitness reasons, I never thought I would enjoy it this much. I certainly never thought I would actually want to fight, but you never know until you start!"

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I now show up early to run and push myself before class. I've lost over 20 lbs so far and have found an energy I never had before. The physical exertion calms the storms of my life and gives me a place where time doesn't exist as well as friends who motivate me to push myself even harder! All thanks to Kru Carlos...thanks for everything, your work means more to me than you'll ever know."

Name: Dan Van Nostrand
Fight Name: Cannon Hand Dan
Age: 33
Date Joined: Jan 2019

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I was in a state of transition: new career, in college again, recently moved to the NoVA area, had started exercising and taking care of myself for the first time ever, and I realized I'd spent most of my life unchallenged. I felt as if I'd always taken the path of least resistance. I wanted to find something difficult, something that would push me to my limits. I considered CrossFit, boxing, BJJ and more before deciding on Muay Thai and Lotus Thai Boxing. I specifically sought out a gym that was full of sharks, one that would teach me how to fight, one that looked like it would bring all of my weaknesses and insecurities to light. After seeing Kru Carlos' highlight videos, reading the other fighters' testimonials, and creeping on their social media for a while I took the plunge and signed up for my free trial."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"There isn't enough space here to write out all of the positive things LTB has brought into my life. Even if there was, I'm not sure I would have the words for it. My entire worldview and mindset has changed for the better. I no longer fear my weaknesses. I seek out challenges in all facets of my life, inside the gym and out. My discipline has improved immensely. I've lost 50 pounds. My balance, coordination, and physical confidence has skyrocketed. I've learned to love the work and not sweat the results. LTB has helped me become a less selfish person. The camaraderie and community is extremely real. LTB houses the most dangerous, most caring, most generous, most well-meaning people I've ever met. I used to think that people who saw the losses or the negatives as "just another opportunity to improve" were delusional, and now I realize how wrong I was.

The amount of hidden benefits in joining a gym cannot be understated. You're not joining a gym to have someone set a timer for you, or teach you to punch. Those are benefits, sure, but they're ancillary; the real lessons are discipline, self worth, confidence, understanding, patience, and so, so much more"

Name: Daniel Chang
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 31
Date Joined: Dec 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My initial reason was joining LTB was because I always had a strong interest in learning Muay Thai back in high school but never got a chance to, I figured it was not too late. A very good friend introduced me to LTB and told me to try it out. I was out of shape and when I came for my trial, it was one of the hardest work outs versus the intense work out videos because everyone in class are trying their hardest and pushing themselves."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has impacted my life in an extremely positive way. They teach values, lessons, responsibilities and positivity. I really enjoy coming to every class and training hard and learning as well as teaching and helping other nak muays grow. Muay thai/LTB has taught me to keep fighting harder when you are exhausted and dead tired, and it has given tremendous growth spiritually and physically. LTB is not like any other martial arts school, it definitely feels like a family."

Name: Dennis Le
Fight Name: The Menace

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I initially joined LTB because a friend asked me to join, said I needed an outlet of sorts. Growing up, I’ve always had issues with my temper and use to lash out. I never had any respect for authority figures, nor did I care about anybody but myself. I was very insecure and used anger and selfishness to mask it. "

Has LTB impacted your life?
"During the time I have been at LTB, Muay Thai changed my life. LTB has taught me more than just fighting. Its taught me discipline, respect, camaraderie and has given me a different perspective on life. To get up after being knocked down, literally. To “always go another round” and no matter what happens, remember to smile. To Kru, coaches and the rest of the LTB family, Thank you for making me a better person, for my peers, family and most of all, myself."

Name: Ihsan Ali
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 15

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined LTB because I wanted to have more confidence in myself and also learn how to defend myself. LTB has taught me many things beside Muay Thai like discipline and respect."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has impacted my life in many ways. I have gained more confidence in the things I do. I want to thank Kru and the coaches for helping me become better at Muay Thai and also a better person."

Name: Jenn Nguyen
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My initial reason for joining Lotus was to become a Samurai in a garden. (Japanese proverb: it’s better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war)"

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I started at Title and then worked on pads with my coworker before I started LTB. And since joining Lotus, Lotus has taught me self-discipline, team work, giving back, sacrificing, and loyalty which wasn’t taught at my previous location. LTB taught me that boxing can be more than just a cardio class where you just come in, take the class and leave. It was more intimate and focused on individual strengths and weaknesses. Because of that, I became more comfortable with myself and was able to be more fluid while maintaining composure."

Name: Joe Chau
Fight Name: Crash

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I initial joined LTB to get into shape for my wedding. I had about four months and heard that kickboxing is considered one of the most effective ways of getting fit. After the warmup nearly caused me to pass-out from exhaustion on my first day, I was instantly hooked. "

Has LTB impacted your life?
"My wedding was about 9 months ago and I still find myself attending LTB regularly. I have become a student to the sport and learned to truly appreciate the nuances of Thai Boxing. Often times the difference between a failed or successful strike can be measured in milliseconds or millimeters. This makes it very difficult the master and consistently pushes me to refine my techniques. LTB and their coaching staff offers me the support needed to succeed at the highest level. I am fully apart of the LTB family and consider many of the coaches and fighters close friends."

Name: Jean-Pierre "JP" Olivos
Fight Name: The Peruvian Executioner

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I needed something new to get me out of my mental rut. I wanted to see if I could commit to something and push myself out of my comfort zone. I was going through a really tough time when I joined LTB and I figured Muay Thai could implement my therapy."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Yes. A million times, yes. It has made me a stronger person, not just physically, but mentally. LTB has also humbled me, made me set goals, and helped me see the importance of life. LTB makes me think of my future and what else I can accomplish and overcome. I am now able to set my demons at rest. Not only that, but I gained new family. LTB is a strong and diverse support system full of fighters that I'm proud to be a part of."

Name: Justin Apperson
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 26
Date Joined: Nov 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"It had been dawning on me for a few years that I hadn’t been challenging myself in any important way and that there’s a lot of wasted potential in sticking to a comfortable but idle routine. I was feeling bored and restless and more and more out of shape. My state of mind was deteriorating too, but it’s easy to feel like you aren’t capable of much when you aren’t even trying anything that delivers any real feedback.

The scales were sort of falling from my eyes and I started looking around and experimenting and discovered LTB. I remember stewing in my sweat on my way home from that first free trial class and feeling sure that if I put myself into it seriously, and with the support and intensity of Kru and the coaches and all the other fighters and the whole tradition behind it, that I could really remake myself. I wanted to see how far that goes."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I feel a lot stronger and healthier than I did in November. I did swimming way back in high school and took to cycling a bit more recently than that, but I can’t remember ever running more than 2 miles in my life, and I’ve recently been running that much or more several times a week. I had really no idea that I was capable of that and unlocking it just makes me want more. I’ve lost at least ten pounds. I feel generally more energetic throughout the day too.

I did not have any martial arts experience at all when I started at LTB, and I still feel like a toddler learning to walk sometimes when trying different things in the gym. But obviously I had never used my limbs before in any way like how Muay Thai fighters use their limbs. I am much more aware of the simple fact that I am the owner of a pair of shins and knees, so that’s a new and exciting connection and I expect to get a lot more comfortable working with it this year."

Name: Kara Haslbeck
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 27
Date Joined: Dec 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined LTB on a whim, largely because I fancied myself training to be Arya Stark of Winterfell, and partly because I felt I needed to retake control of the direction in which I was moving. The environment at LTB is tough, and you really have to push yourself and take accountability for your effort and success. It is also super supportive, so you feel comfortable in the struggle and feel progress not only within yourself but within the group as well. It has been the perfect training ground and sanctuary, and Kru, the coaches, and other nak muays are each so dedicated and inclusive."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Besides my constant wai-ing in appreciation or exclaiming 'oss' in would-be appropriate situations outside of the gym, the biggest impact so far has been the realization of the extent in which the mind controls the body. My first class at LTB felt like my last hours in this world, and even now there are times in class when I don't believe I'll be able to finish all of the rounds, but I do every time, merely because I make the decision to do it. If I continue to grow this focus and discipline to transcend other aspects of my life, who knows what remarkable things I will accomplish just by making the decision to pursue them."

Name: Kate
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"When it comes to martial art school, there is a few things that I look for and I found them at LTB. First, I was looking for a school that delivered intensity, discipline, tradition and practicality. Kru Carlos has the experience in being a practitioner for a long time as well as being a professional fighter. It didn’t take much to convince me to recognize the knowledge he possesses in the art when I visited to watch for the first time and during the trial class. I appreciate his effort to deliver the training in a manner close to the traditional ways. I think it’s important because it holds the club together and provides structure. I prefer it to mixed style. To me, it’s not just about how to execute the techniques but also learning the culture and custom. I needed to be able to identify with what I was to learn. It’s just a personal preference. Second, I was intrigued with the close combat that utilizes all limbs which is not something that I was trained in. I thought it would be a useful set of skills to have. Third, As a female student it is particularly important to look at the culture of the school. The male-female student ratio, the interactions between more and less experienced and the dynamics between the students and teacher/coaches. I was comfortable enough to give it a try and I am glad I did."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I continue coming back for more. I find the practice drills well structured and challenging without being overwhelming for my learning curve. I very much look forwards to being active after long static days at the office. I can definitely say that my stamina, strength and speed have improved a lot and I am very happy with that so far. The training is a great confident booster and I feel great every time!"

Name: Kneil Martinez
Fight Name: TBD
Age: 30
Date Joined: Dec 2018

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"When my roommate invited me to come check out LTB, I had no plans of joining past the trial week. It took one class to convince me that the LTB family was something I wanted to be a part of. I joke around that I came for the free trial but I stayed for the Sean Paul playlist but really I stayed because of the people. Kru Carlos established a culture within the gym that promotes inclusion, respect and hard work. Every single person in that gym reflects these traits. That's why I joined.... Also the Sean Paul playlist is really good."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Before I joined LTB, I was in a physical and mental rut. I needed a change in my life. I knew that I couldn't go into my 30s with the same daily routine. LTB gave me the structure, motivation and discipline I needed to overcome these mental hurdles. Physically, I haven't felt this good in a long time."

Name: Mahmoud “Momo” Islam
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I was tired of being unfit and unfocused. I could barely run a mile or jog up the stairs, and for someone in their mid-20s that’s not acceptable. I wanted to be mentally stronger and be able to tackle whatever life throws at me. I knew I was capable of more, but I didn’t know how to do accomplish that goal."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"I was looking for a gym. But, I found more than that. I found a den of fighters, tigers, and champions. I found a family. I found a source of inspiration. LTB showed me the power of consistency; putting in hard work day in and day out. My journey has only begun, but so far I have lost over 20lbs and continue to get stronger mentally and physically each day. I am forever grateful for the lessons Kru Carlos, coaches, and the team have taught me."

Name: Maruf Mahmud
Fight Name: The Martian

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I was planning to join Lotus a while ago but back in September I was injured playing soccer and it resulted in compartment syndrome in my right anterior tibialis. This resulted in paralysis and not being able to move my foot up at the ankle. This was a major setback for me because I was always very competitive and active. At first I was very discouraged but then Kru Carlos gave me a call one day and it made me want to try it out."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Lotus has impacted my life in a positive way. Through tough training and proper discipline, it gave me the strength to pick myself up and adapt to my injury and enjoy life again. I owe it to Lotus for my new-found confidence. Thank You, Kru Carlos for helping everyone at Lotus become fighters."

Name: Max Carr
Fight Name: MadMax

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I have always been a martial artist and a fighter. I wanted to take my passion to the next level and get healthier."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"After joining LTB I have increased my endurance, strength, fighting style, and confidence in and outside the ring. From March 2016 to September 2016 I lost thirty pounds, quit smoking, ate better, lifted more and gained new family members. I cannot imagine not being apart of LTB."

Name: Minh Quan Thai
Fight Name: The Magician

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined LTB to realize my potential and be something. I never want to be complacent and just cruise through. I knew I would always find something to work on and better myself if I joined."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB helps me be a better person than my yesterdays. My time here has taught me that whatever your goal is, big or small and the steps to it may be slow and not clear, you can do it. Believe in yourself and put in the work. Keep going and push. When you want to quit, you push harder. And you don't have to go alone, everyone at LTB is happy to help you along the way. You learn to appreciate yourself and the LTB family."

Name: Mohamed Elhag
Fight Name: The Professor

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined LTB because I had a lot of free time and I needed to workout more. So when my sister told me to try it out with her, I did."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Since joining LTB I’ve learned to become (to some extent) a fighter, and that not only means i can punch and kick now but knowing when to show respect and also when to show dominance. I also run more now and am starting to look like a fighter."

Name: Nara Loch
Fight Name: Chub Rock

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My first trial class at LTB was one of the most punishing things I've ever experienced. Midway through the class my chest was burning, my head was light and I was hanging on for dear life. As much as I wanted to quit, the energy from Kru and the fighters encouraged me to fight through the pain and finish the class. After class Kru and the fighters came to a defeated me and told me I did a great job. They assured me the class was one of the tougher ones and I should be proud of myself, that as tough as this class was, it will only get easier if I keep on training. These words picked me up off the floor and inspired me to come back to train. I joined LTB because I had an instant connection with Kru, the fighters, and the system. I wanted to be part of a family that put egos aside and motivated each other to overcome the toughest challenges."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Muay Thai is no longer hard work for me, it's an addiction. Challenging myself to exceed my limits is an addiction. Running a faster mile than my last one is an addiction. Being able to use the skills I learn from LTB in everyday life is an addiction."

Name: Omer Hassan
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"Originally, I was just looking for a way back into Martial Arts. I practiced Karate for 5 years when I was a child. I also weighed about 215 pounds at the time I joined, and for a long time, I tried so hard to get under 200 pounds. Other than learning this art and fitness, I was in dire need of a mindset change after going through a stressful final semester as an undergraduate student."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"In the first 4 months alone, I learned the fundamentals, dropped 43 pounds, and became a lot stronger, mentally. LTB is not just a gym, where you go workout and then head straight home afterwards, it is a discipline and a family full of encouragement, inspiration, and motivation. It isn’t only about the exercise and the fighting, but the Nak Muays (students), coaches, and Kru are the real reason this place is worth committing to. In 2019, I hope to get my first fight early, and to be more involved with the LTB/Disciple Family. My disease and other life events kept me from practicing for a total of 3 months this year, but I will be around a lot more next year!"

Name: Pamela Heise
Fight Name: Bone Crusher

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I first joined LTB because my best friend invited me to try it out and I was looking for a new challenge. Initially, I was a bit intimidated walking into the gym with all the guys who seemed super intense, but within minutes I quickly felt welcomed. Since joining, I have met an amazing, talented group of individuals who constantly strive to push each other to be better and train harder both inside and outside the gym."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has definitely impacted my life for the better and I can't imagine not being a part of this group. Shortly after starting at LTB I tore my ACL playing football and was feeling discouraged and unmotivated. I had previously torn my other ACL and knew that the rehab process would be very long and difficult. But through LTB I was encouraged and determined to continually grow and achieve my goals. Kru Carlos was very accommodating and able to work around my injury. Although I was unable to participate in the full class, Kru was always able to modify his instruction to fit my individual constraints. All that was/is asked is that we all do the best we can. Kru and the coaches are tough and each class definitely pushes my limits. It is both a physical and mental challenge, but even when I'm having a rough day and have to push myself to show up and get through class, I leave feeling soo much better. When first starting I just wanted to be stronger, healthier, and overall more active, but after a few months I definitely feel like I want to fight. I know right now that's a far off reality, but I know with this family behind me I will be able to achieve that goal!"

Name: Stephen Nguyen
Fight Name: The Enigma

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"Back in 2007 I was on the Sherdog MMA forums for striking techniques and I came across a video of Kru Lopez doing pad work. As a new BJJ guy, I guess that was the first time I'd really seen any real Muay Thai, and it completely captured my imagination. The fluidity, grace, and devastation of Muay Thai immediately hooked me. Perfect balance of form and function. In one word, it was GORGEOUS. And I think as kids we often see something cool, and we go "I WANT TO DO THAT!" And we do that dang thang. So that's how I felt, and that's something I try to never let go. And also at that time in my life I refused to believe anything remotely cool came out of Northern Virginia...so I definitely had a bit of surprise and hometown pride to motivate me. Seven years later I finally summoned the courage to try Muay Thai, but Lotus Thai Boxing (LTB) was too far from me. After 6 months in another school I found myself ready to start fight-training, and luckily enough LTB opened up in Fairfax. I wanted a school that took care of all levels of students from beginner to advanced. Specifically, I wanted help for intermediate students because I think that's where many gyms fall short to help people reach the next level. I wanted a family and an active fight team."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has been both the vehicle and the window in which I've been able to explore relationships with myself, the people around me, and the world at large. I've completed 3 amazing fight camps and 2 official fights under the LTB name. I've found a family I never knew I had. I've pushed myself further than I ever thought possible. I believe you are reborn moment-to-moment. Each begins anew. The key is to take control and make those events intentional and more transformative. Don't let them pass you by. So in that sense there have been hundreds of versions of myself that I've let go of - only to be gifted a brand new, improved version of myself in body, mind, and spirit. I believe that competitive 1-on-1 sport is the pinnacle of that idea. But unlike other sports, Muay Thai has a beautiful tradition to back its practicality. And that's what makes LTB and Muay Thai so special. I'm without a doubt, always striving to be the best version of myself that I can be. But I couldn't have done it without the support of my team here at LTB. I'm a nak muay for life. It's woven itself into my DNA to the deepest parts of my being. It's an amazing journey and my goal is to share it with whoever is seeking a more fulfilled and happy life!"

Name: Tariq Ali
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I initially joined because I wanted to encourage my kids to take up Muay Thai for self-defense purposes. I stayed because of the culture of discipline, respect, and humility that Kru has cultivated at LTB."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"LTB has positively impacted me in a number of ways. Working with motivated and resilient fighters has helped me develop mental fortitude that allows me to consistently push past physical and mental limitations that my mind had previously imposed on me. This has helped me get into the best shape I've been in for years and allows me to tackle challenges that may come up outside the gym with aplomb. I want to take this opportunity to thank all the Nak Muays at LTB for their camaraderie and for continuously pushing me to be better. I want to thank the coaches for their sincere efforts in helping me hone my Muay Thai skills and for the knowledge they impart on a nightly basis. Finally, I'd like to thank Kru for his selfless dedication to helping all of us improve as individuals inside and outside LTB."

Name: Tommy Do
Fight Name: El Payaso

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I joined Lotus Thai Boxing towards the end of last year with my younger brother with the intention of closing the age gap between us - by investing time in a similar interest. Since joining I have been able to improve my health, quit smoking and am where I expected to be in terms of my development as a fighter."

Has LTB impacted your life?
"What I did not expect to find was the camaraderie shared between all of the fighters. My brother stopped training because of conflicts in his work schedule. On the bright side - in trying to connect with one brother, I gained a room full. What has also exceeded my expectations is the quality of instruction provided at LTB. The learning objectives are easy to follow, all technical elements are explained in detail and charter development is incorporated into the lessons. I knew the definition of sportsmanship, humility, perseverance, patience, and pride in solidarity prior to joining. But to be in an environment where you actually have to apply it is nice. What has completely shattered my expectations is the level of energy and positive vibes that Kru Carlos Lopez provides. He is consistent in providing quality sessions and is able to adapt to each individual's skill and athleticism levels. I feel like I didn’t understand the true meaning of sweating until I started training with him. According to Thomas Edison, "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration." Well I guess that makes me a genius, that or the complete opposite. I am going to keep training will the hopes of one day defeating him. That or I so that I can help my brother in case he wants to return, if not then I can use what I have learned to help him outside of Muay Thai, if not then I might find the "gift of acceptance.""

Name: Vanessa Cancino
Fight Name: TBD

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I love Muay Thai! I was at a point in life where I was trying to find myself again, so I thought it was a good idea to start with the things that brought me happiness when I was younger. I found Muay Thai via King Fu when I was 15, but I've been a fighter my whole life. "

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Fighting reminds me that no one can break my spirit. If I stand on the side of righteousness and work my butt off, I'm confident that I can make all of my dreams come true. I have a lot of fighter friends now too! Everyone at LTB is so alpha, it's badass. I'm badass, that's the greatest impact, because now I own my strength."

Name: Victor Simmons
Fight Name: Vicious

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"I started Muay Thai because as a fitness junkie, I wanted to simply try something new. I was very comfortable with my traditional workout routine of lifting weights and doing very minimal cardio and felt like it was time to kick it up a notch. A year ago, a run in with Coach Toine at the gym led me to LTB and it has been history ever since. I joined initially for the sole purpose of fitness and nothing more. "

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Joining LTB has been the greatest life changing experience of my life. I've learned more than just fighting. I learned what that fighter's spirit really is. To go the extra mile, to go one more round, to smile after every hit, and to never give up. All these principles I can incorporate even outside this gym. Out of all this, the most important thing I gained was a family. I've never met a more hardworking and supportive group of individuals, till I joined LTB. In and outside this gym, everyone is amazing and I can't help but think how lucky I am to stand amongst all of them. Everybody has contributed to my growth and I can't thank Kru, the coaches, and everybody else enough."

Name: Vincent Phan
Fight Name: Thai Chili Pepper
Age: 13

What was your first initial reason for joining LTB?
"My cousin Dennis wanted me to join so I did, and it has been a great bonding experience!"

Has LTB impacted your life?
"Yes. It gives me motivation to get up and be at least 1% better at everything I do, everyday."