PLATTSMOUTH, NEBRASKA (2023 September 22, Friday) In the heart of Plattsmouth, a narrative unfolds that speaks to the passion, dedication, and resilience of two young fighters: Kole Gray and Tyler Koch. Under the watchful eyes of TJ Benson at Championship Fitness, they’ve blossomed into exceptional martial artists. Now, as they prepare to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime training experience in Thailand next year, their stories take an exhilarating turn.
Kole Gray: Plattsmouth’s Pitbull
Kole Gray, affectionately termed the “Pitbull,” is a testament to relentless dedication and heart. “Here in Plattsmouth we have always had such an awesome support system in all of our sports,” Kole begins, speaking of the town’s tight-knit community. “Competing in small tourneys all year to putting everything on the line at a district tourney to wrestling in front of a sold out Center Link for a state title prepared me the most I’d say.”
As he looks forward to his Thailand journey, Kole is keen on absorbing as much as possible. “They do a lot of traditional MuayThai standup over there,” he comments, emphasizing his wrestling background, “but the mindset and determination I grew over the years of wrestling for Plattsmouth will benefit me in Thailand.”
His thirst for knowledge is evident: “I plan to write down one thing each day to take back to Championship Fitness with me and perfect. That’s my favorite part about this sport, there’s always something to learn and improve.”
Tyler Koch: Evolving Through Muay Thai
For Tyler Koch, Thailand promises personal growth and the refinement of his Muay Thai techniques. “Over the last two years, I have grown a ton as a competitor thanks to my teammates and Championship Fitness,” Tyler shares. “I believe that the guidance from coaches and trainers who have generations of passed down experience in this martial art will make me a better competitor but also make me a better student.”
Tyler believes in holistic immersion: “The rigorous training and cultural immersion come as a package deal. I’m most excited to dive 110% into the experience.” He is aware of potential challenges, particularly the language barrier, but remains unfazed: “Other than that, I will treat the trip similar to a fight camp. I plan to have the physical and mental capability to come to training each day eager and at the top of my game.”
Kole and Tyler’s bond runs deep, a fact Tyler readily acknowledges: “Kole and I feed off each other’s energy. As training partners, we know each other’s limits and how to drive one another to push beyond them. I think pushing through final hours of training and using that energy to continue to build there is what we will lean on each other the most for.”
TJ Benson’s Championship Vision
TJ Benson, the driving force behind Championship Fitness, has seen it all. When asked about pivotal moments for both fighters, he recalls, “The turning point for Kole was his first and only loss… He came back to competition so much more focused.” For Tyler, it was the same. “Tyler also grew after losing his first fight by Split Decision. He came back to go undefeated and become a National Muay Thai Champion.”
Speaking about their upcoming Thailand experience, TJ is certain that it will be transformative. “We have a unique training style at Championship Fitness,” he comments. “I think they have some tricks that will definitely work in their favor while learning traditional Muay Thai techniques straight from the source.”
The duo’s symbiotic relationship impresses TJ. “Kole and Tyler are great partners inside the gym. Always pushing each other to do better and go one more extra rep. I wouldn’t be surprised if they have to kick them out of the gym every night!”
TJ’s vision for them post-Thailand is clear: “They can both go as far as they want to. In a perfect world Kole will be 3-0 by then. It’ll be a good reset to go to Thailand then come home and get back to work, one step closer to knocking on Dana’s White’s door via The Contender Series.”
Championship Fitness, under TJ Benson’s leadership, has cultivated an environment of growth, perseverance, and excellence. As Kole Gray and Tyler Koch journey to Thailand, they carry with them not just their individual ambitions, but the hopes and dreams of an entire community that has stood by them every step of the way. Their journey is not just about honing their martial arts techniques; it’s a testament to human spirit, collaboration, and the pursuit of greatness.
