We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! The member spotlight turns to Kyle Morgan aka Kyle “KP” Morgz, long term member (since the yellow mat era) at Absolute MMA.
Occupation: UX Research & Design Manager
Martial Arts/Sports: Mixed Martial Arts
How did you get into the sport?
“I actually blame Bruce Lee, Van Damme & Chuck Norris really, at an early age they inspired me to start Martial Arts. I did Karate and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu from a very early age into my teens, then I discovered skating, girls and parties and took some time off. A few years on I still had this innate desire to train and be a white Bruce Lee so I decided it was time to get back into Martial Arts. So I decided to do something that was actually effective, so here I am.”
What are your immediate training goals?
“There are two things I really like to do: whoop ass and look good. I’m doing one of them right now and each week when training, I’m doing the other.”
What are your goals for the next five years?
“Training wise; Train, compete and advance in BJJ as much as possible – its addictive. Maintain my striking and hopefully compete again.”
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
“I think its been around 6 years of training here now, but ultimately because the family/community feel here is incredible. I’ve made some great friends and met some amazing people. It’s a great feeling when you’ve just finished work and you walk into the club and see multiple mates and can train together. The staff and coaches are world class also, which is why we have remained the great environment we are.”
What is your favourite move?
“Left hook or jab, the jab is totally underrated in MMA, and anything leg lock related for grappling at this stage.”
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
“Relax….say what? I work full time, study, train and try to keep my wife happy haha, its a fine juggle. Training relaxes me to be honest, that post training feeling is great.”
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
“Someone who comes from nothing or with odds against them, and makes something of themselves and or improves their life. Kudos to those who don’t use excuses, have vision and self belief.”
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
“I remember my first MMA Class with Gustavo (Yellow Mat days), and having very little preparation and going straight into sparring – WOW, my advice would be remember to BREATHE. Also I should have taken up Gi BJJ long before I did, so I would go back and convince myself Gi’s are cool and started earlier.”
“When I think of Kyle, one quote comes to mind ‘I don’t call 9-1-1, I call on 4-1-1 – giddy up, bitches!’.” – Brenton McKiterick,