Today we’d like to introduce you to Rolando Montano.
Hi Rolando, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ten years ago, Rolando Montano founded Carlsbad Kickboxing Club with nothing but a vision, determination, and a passion for Muay Thai. What began as a small training space quickly transformed into one of North County’s most respected martial arts academies—producing national champions and Team USA representatives.
As a coach on Team USA Muay Thai, Montano has represented the United States multiple times on the world stage, traveling across the globe to compete against the best international fighters. His global experience not only strengthened his own knowledge of the sport but inspired a generation of athletes under his guidance.
Montano’s commitment to youth development has been a cornerstone of his success. His ability to connect with and mentor young athletes helped grow Carlsbad Kickboxing Club from zero members to over a thousand in just seven years—an achievement few independent gyms can claim.
Driven by a lifelong goal, Montano also accomplished a deeply personal milestone: sponsoring a former Thai fighter from Thailand to come train and teach in the U.S.—a project that cost over $20,000 and required extensive legal and logistical work. It was a personal mission to help change a life and assist this former Thai fighter in starting anew, with the ultimate goal of helping Whann immigrate to the United States. For Montano, it wasn’t just about bringing in talent; it was about building bridges between cultures and expanding opportunities for the next generation of fighters.
Carlsbad Kickboxing Club has amassed over 60 national and world titles, a feat few gyms in the country can claim. Under Montano’s leadership, CKC has set the standard for excellence—trailblazing the Muay Thai scene in San Diego with a groundbreaking youth program that redefined what was possible for young competitors. The club continues to dominate the amateur and professional circuits, proudly standing as a symbol of discipline, community, and perseverance.
Through his leadership, countless students have found discipline, confidence, and purpose. Rolando Montano’s impact continues to ripple far beyond the gym’s walls—shaping lives, inspiring communities, and proving that passion, when paired with perseverance, can build an enduring legacy.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any business, there have been challenges along the way. A few years ago, Montano brought in a trainer from out of state with the goal of mentoring him—teaching him not only how to coach but also how to run a gym of his own back home in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, that trainer had other plans. His true goal was to learn from Montano, remain in North County, and attempt to persuade CKC members to follow him to his new gym. In the process, he resorted to slandering Montano’s reputation—a move that shocked many in the Muay Thai community. While such behavior is occasionally seen in other combat sports like jiu-jitsu, it was nearly unheard of in Muay Thai. Still, it happened. And rather than breaking CKC, the experience became another test of resilience—one that only made the team stronger, tighter, and more determined than ever to uphold their values.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m most proud of the lives that I have helped change for the better. Most of the kids that I mentor do not have a father in the home, the coaches role is a special one.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Resilience, when I see challenge I double down.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carlsbadkickboxingclub.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlsbadkickboxingclub?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
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