Six young fighters from Ballito’s Warriors Gymnasium stepped into the ring at Palmiet Primary School on Saturday for a kickboxing development event aimed at nurturing emerging talent.

Despite facing more experienced opponents, the team – trained by two-time MMA champion Amanda “Mad Dog” Lino – showed determination and promise in their debut performances, while others demonstrated noticeable growth.

Amanda, a multi-discipline coach, trains her athletes in mixed martial arts, kickboxing and other combat sports to ensure they develop well-rounded skills and tactical versatility.

The team comprised brothers Josh (18) and Luke de Beer (16), Blaise Kohrs (15), Hayden Crompton-James (17), Jagger Borkum (17) and Kiran Copoosamy (15). For all but Josh and Luke, it was their first competitive kickboxing bout.

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Luke, who placed seventh in his division at the Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi in July, and Blaise Kohrs both secured wins via technical knockouts (TKO). Blaise, who has only been training for a few months, won his bout in the first round.

“Blaise was incredible!” said Amanda.

“And it was wonderful to see Luke embracing kickboxing, it was the best he’s ever performed.”

The remaining fighters lost their bouts, but not due to lack of heart or effort.

Hayden lost in a split decision, while Josh and Jagger were defeated by unanimous decisions. Kiran lost by corner stoppage (TKO).

“The boys had some amazing fights. Even if the outcome wasn’t what we wanted, they all performed incredibly well,” said Amanda, emphasising the developmental focus of the event.

Amanda noted marked improvement in her two most experienced fighters, Josh and Luke.

“They have matured and grown by competing. It’s great to see them applying what they learn in class and implementing it in the ring.”

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