Professional Trainers
Abood is our expert jiu jitsu trainer with over 8 years of experience in the sport and more than 6 years of coaching under his belt. With a versatile teaching approach, he is equipped to coach everyone from kids in schools and including those with special needs to adults pro and just starting out in their journey. Abood’s journey in the martial arts world began 5 years before his 8 years in jiu jitsu, where he focused on mixed martial arts (MMA). Abood’s mentor taught him how to coach effectively and has since coached world champions. Abood uses Jiu Jitsu as a means to help people overcome mental issues, as it’s more than just a sport to him; it’s a lifestyle. He believes that the bond created within the jiu jitsu community is akin to that of a family. Abood has been a part of the community in the region for 17 years, and now continues to share his passion and expertise with anyone looking to improve their jiu jitsu skills or overcome personal obstacles.
Meet Ross, our esteemed Chief Coach at Stronghold Gym. With 14.5 years of experience and a military background as a Royal Marine Sergeant, Ross is a Level 3 certified PT coach with a wealth of experience training people across various disciplines. Ross brings his military mindset to his coaching style, leaving no room for shadows in his classes. He takes immense pride in helping people surpass their limits and achieve levels of performance they never thought possible. At Stronghold Gym, Ross runs dynamic Bootcamp classes that go beyond physical training. It’s a community, a vibe, a way of life.
Ross specializes in metabolic conditioning and strength training, with his Saturday boot camps being a testament to his success. Additionally, he offers personalized 1-2-1 PT sessions, helping clients attain their physical and performance goals. From skydiving to shooting and weight surfing, Ross is a coach in various areas, with a genuine passion for teaching and coaching. Ross is motivated by the sense of fulfillment he experiences when his coaching helps his clients achieve their goals.
He is committed to fostering an environment where individuals can grow, push their boundaries, and reach their full potential. Join Ross at Stronghold Gym and discover a whole new level of fitness training that will empower you to accomplish your goals.
Meet Karl, a highly experienced MMA practitioner, coach, and competitor with 15 years of experience under his belt. Karl has competed in various competitions, ranging from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to Nogi grappling, and is well-versed in different types of fighting, including striking, kickboxing, karate, and grappling. He specializes in American-style wrestling, Brazilian Jujitsu joint locks, body, and submission. Karl is an exceptional coach, having worked with children and first-time adult learners. He has trained individuals from their very first session to competition, and has even coached and cornered high-level professionals in organizations like the UFC, PFL, and Strike Force.
What sets Karl apart is his genuine passion for empowering people. He takes immense pride in seeing the look on someone’s face when they realize they can defend themselves, especially women. He believes in going against the grain and doing things correctly, whether someone is going to compete or not. Under Karl’s guidance, his clients perform at their very best, as if they could compete with anyone.
Join Karl on your martial arts journey, and experience the thrill of discovering your true potential. You’ll learn from one of the best in the business and become empowered to defend yourself, both inside and outside the ring.
Frank is a dedicated coach who has been transforming lives in Dubai for the past 3-4 years. With a specialization in both boxing fitness and technical boxing, Frank is on a mission to break down the barriers that make boxing intimidating for many people. By teaching the basics of boxing and helping people achieve their fitness goals, while learning fundamental self-defense techniques, Frank creates a supportive community that encourages progress and success. As a Level 3 personal trainer with Reps Level 3 certification, Frank is passionate about boxing and the discipline it requires.
He believes that boxing is a great way to stay accountable and build a stable, supportive community. Frank takes pride in his greatest achievements, which include helping people increase their energy levels, lose weight, and achieve various personal goals, whether physical or mental. Regardless of someone’s fitness level or boxing experience, Frank is ready to push them to their limits and help them achieve their full potential.
Zakaria is a versatile trainer with a rich background in combat sports. Originally starting as a personal trainer, Zakaria later transitioned into the world of Muay Thai and boxing. With a focus on personal training and offering one-on-one sessions, Zakaria brings 15 years of industry experience to the table. His true passion lies in teaching young children and helping them develop their skills in Muay Thai Boxing. Alongside his expertise in combat sports, Zakaria also excels in personal training, offering a well-rounded approach to fitness. Join Zakaria for an empowering training experience that combines the art of boxing with personalized guidance, allowing you to unleash your potential and achieve your fitness goals.
Yurry is a true boxing champion from the Philippines, having won the title in 2021. He first started his journey in boxing in 1999, and took a break in 2007 to pursue his passion for coaching. Boxing is not only his passion, but also runs in his family paired with his extensive experience and knowledge in the sport. Yurry is dedicated to helping boxers in his gym improve and reach their goals of competing for world titles. He is committed to bringing out the best in his clients, striving to make them the best version of themselves both in and out of the ring.
Rocky is a passionate and skilled boxing trainer with an impressive background in the sport. Having represented the national team of the Philippines, Rocky brings a wealth of experience to the table. With six years of Muay Thai training and four years as a professional boxer, his expertise is unmatched. Rocky’s love for Muay Thai and the thrill of being in the ring drives his enthusiasm. He enjoys meeting new people and teaching them valuable skills through personalized one-on-one sessions and group classes. Join Rocky for an engaging and empowering boxing experience that will take your fitness journey to new heights.
Ricky Sismundo is our highly skilled and experienced trainer specializing in boxing and kickboxing. With nearly a decade of teaching experience under his belt, Ricky is dedicated to sharing his extensive knowledge of the sport with his clients. His areas of expertise include boxing techniques, movement, and bodybuilding. Ricky takes pride in providing personalized training sessions, both in one-on-one settings and group classes. One of his unique strengths lies in helping clients with injuries, ensuring they can train to the best of their abilities while prioritizing their safety and recovery. Ricky’s exceptional skill set is backed by notable achievements, such as winning the WBO Asia belt in 2009 and defeating a boxing champion in the Philippines. In Japan, he earned the prestigious MBP certificate, cementing his status as a champion. Join Ricky for a transformative training experience, where you’ll not only gain technical expertise but also receive personalized guidance and support on your fitness journey.
Introducing Aeb Montefalcon, a multi-talented trainer specializing in Muay Thai and MMA. With a background in Judo and Muay Thai, Aeb brings a diverse skill set to his teaching approach. Offering personalized one-on-one classes and training sessions, Aeb’s primary focus is on promoting health and fitness. He is dedicated to helping individuals become the best versions of themselves, both in terms of their overall well-being and athletic performance. Aeb’s experience spans three years in amateur MMA and one year as a professional, with a particular emphasis on strength and conditioning. Notably, Aeb has achieved local championship status in the Philippines. Join Aeb on a transformative journey towards optimal health and fitness, and let their expertise guide you to new levels of achievement.
Antonio Vinicius, a 27-year-old Brazilian native from Rio de Janeiro, brings nearly two decades of Jiu-Jitsu expertise to Vic’s Sport Complex. Holding a 2nd-degree black belt under Glayson Bertolot, Antonio has been instructing since the age of 17, making his way to the UAE in 2017. His passion for MMA training was kindled within his family, particularly by his father, a fellow Jiu-Jitsu athlete. Antonio’s training philosophy revolves around enhancing not only physical fitness but also mental and social aspects through Jiu-Jitsu. He emphasizes life skills like decision-making and emotional control. With a decade of teaching experience, Antonio has successfully guided students from amateurs to professionals, notably helping a friend secure a world championship by changing his approach and division. His tailored training methods cater to clients of all fitness levels, offering both group classes and one-on-one sessions. Antonio’s availability spans mornings to early afternoons, from 8:30 AM to 2 PM, providing flexible scheduling options for potential clients.
Meet Ryan, a true champion hailing from the Philippines. Ryan fought his way to victory in the WMA number 1 in 2009, held in Honghe Yunnan, China, in the 48 kg category, earning himself the title of Philippine Champion. Ryan has 22 years of experience in martial arts and 15 years as a trainer and coach. He specializes in boxing, muay thai, strength and conditioning, and muscle toning, teaching both group classes and personal training sessions. Ryan’s journey in martial arts began when he was bullied at school. Determined to defend himself and build inner strength, Ryan fell in love with the tradition and discipline of martial arts. As he discovered his natural talent in fighting, Ryan’s coach pushed him to be the best he could be.
Now, Ryan shares his knowledge and skills with others, teaching them how to reach their full potential. Although Ryan retired from competing due to injuries, his passion for martial arts burns brighter than ever. Today, Ryan concentrates on helping others reach their personal fitness goals at the gym, empowering them to become stronger, healthier, and more confident individuals. Join Ryan in his journey and experience the transformative power of martial arts for yourself.