Gavin Hughes & Mike Terani Competing at the WKAs This Weekend
This weekend, Gavin Hughes and Mike Terani step into the ring at the World Kickboxing Association (WKA) National Championships — one of the most important events in American Muay Thai.
You may have noticed them training outside all summer, it wasn’t just for show. The WKA tournament is held at an outdoor venue, so fighting in the heat is part of the challenge. By training under the Carolina sun, they’ve been preparing their minds and bodies for exactly what they’ll face in the ring.
For Gavin, this marks his second trip to the WKAs. For Mike, it’s his third. Each return represents growth — sharper technique, tougher conditioning, and more experience under pressure.
Why the WKAs Matter
The WKA Nationals have long been a proving ground for strikers in the U.S. Success here can open doors to international competition, USA team selection, and professional opportunities. It’s also a crucible: back-to-back fights, top-tier talent from across the country, and the unique demand of outdoor bouts that test both skill and grit.
Our own Coach & Doctor of Physical Therapy, Kelsi, is a two-time WKA National Champion. Her success shows the level of athlete this tournament produces — and the standard Gavin and Mike are chasing as they continue their journeys.
The Bigger Picture
Tournaments like the WKAs aren’t just about winning medals. They’re about building the resilience and fight IQ that carry over into every combat sport. We use Muay Thai competition as a launchpad into MMA, where striking confidence and composure under pressure can make all the difference.
For Gavin and Mike, the WKAs are a stepping stone — an experience that shapes their development as martial artists and fuels their long-term goals.
Good Luck This Weekend
We’re proud to see Gavin and Mike test themselves at such a high level. Their preparation, commitment, and willingness to take on the toughest challenges set the example for our next generation of athletes.
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https://streamglobal.live/en/live_series/wka-us-adult-national-championship-tournament-689613aeb71dfd338c42ffed