MEET THE COACHES
HEAD COACH- NICK GJELAJ
Nick Gjelaj is an accomplished Muay Thai coach and active professional fighter with nearly 40 amateur Muay Thai bouts and experience competing in both Muay Thai and MMA. After relocating to Albuquerque to pursue elite-level training, Nick has dedicated himself to mastering the art of Muay Thai and sharing that knowledge with others. His coaching emphasizes strong fundamentals, technical precision, and disciplined training, while creating an environment where students of every skill level can grow with confidence. Nick is passionate about helping each student reach their goals—whether they're training for fitness, self-defense, or competition.
COACH JESSE
Coach Jesse Tafoya is an accomplished amatuer and professional combat sports athlete whose experience spans kickboxing, Muay Thai, and mixed martial arts. A former Amateur Kickboxing Champion and two-time Professional MMA Champion, Jesse brings championship-level experience, technical precision, and a deep passion for developing martial artists of every age and skill level. Whether working with young students building confidence, adults training for fitness, or fighters preparing for competition, Jesse is committed to creating a challenging, supportive environment where every athlete can reach their highest potential.
COACH RYAN
For me, Muay Thai has always been about more than learning how to fight—it’s about becoming a better person.
With 25 years of martial arts experience and 9 years in Muay Thai, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to help students of all ages and experience levels grow in confidence, discipline, and resilience. Whether you’re walking into your first class or chasing your next goal, I’m here to support you every step of the way.
One of the things I love most about coaching is watching people discover what they’re truly capable of. Seeing students overcome challenges, celebrate victories, and become part of an incredible community is what keeps me passionate about teaching.
Kingdom Muay Thai is more than a gym—it’s a family. I’m honored to be a part of it and excited to help everyone who walks through our doors become the strongest version of themselves, both on and off the mats.
See you in class! 🙏🥊
COACH JERROD
My name is Jerrod Day, I run the 7am class monday-friday and I help coach the kids class. I've been training and competing in Muay Thai for over three years and coaching for the past year at Kingdom. I'm passionate about helping people build confidence, improve their skills, and discover the mental and emotional benefits that come from disciplined training. My goal is to create an environment where students grow stronger, not just as martial artists, but as individuals.
COACH KELLI- YOGA
200RYT and physical therapist assistant, passionate about injury prevention and holistic movement practice.
COACH DANA- WOMAN'S CLASS
Hi, I’m Dana! I’ve been training in Muay Thai since 2021 and currently hold an amateur record of 3–1. As the women’s class coach, I’m passionate about creating a welcoming and supportive environment where women of all experience levels can build confidence, develop new skills, and challenge themselves. After taking time away from competition to welcome my son in 2025, I’m back to training and looking forward to stepping into the ring again soon. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or competition, I’m excited to help you grow and reach your potential.
COACH CARLOS
Carlos Condit is a world-renowned mixed martial artist, former UFC Interim Welterweight Champion, and former WEC Welterweight Champion. Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Carlos built a legendary career through his dynamic striking, relentless fighting style, and dedication to martial arts. Known worldwide as “The Natural Born Killer,” he competed at the highest levels of professional combat sports for nearly two decades. Today, Carlos brings his elite-level experience, technical expertise, and passion for teaching to Kingdom Muay Thai, helping students of all skill levels develop confidence, discipline, and world-class striking fundamentals.
