Vonnora Muay Thai
The only authentic Muay Thai Gym in Champaign-Urbana
Vonnora Muay Thai
Come learn one of the most effective striking systems in the world from the only real Muay Thai gym in the C-U area. Here, you will learn the proper techniques that separate Muay Thai from other martial arts, while also getting a great, full-body workout. Practitioners of Muay Thai also benefit from increased confidence they can carry with them through their daily lives as you train with a community of people in a supportive environment. With multiple daily classes to suit a variety of ages and experience levels, there has never been a better time to join one of the fastest growing combat sports in the country! Try a free trial class today to see what we are about!
Meet Your Teachers
Nilahn Vannarath, Head Coach
Nilahn is the head coach at Vonnora Muay Thai and teaches the advanced classes Monday through Friday. Originally born in the Isaan region of Thailand, Nilahn began training Muay Thai at the age of 5. By the time he turned 18, he had experience in over 150 fights before moving to America. He has spent the last 30 years coaching thousands of students and is a well-known and respected coach in the national Muay Thai community. Nilahn has trained alongside several highly skilled fighters such as 8x World Champion Coban Lookchaomaesaitong, UFC fighter Spencer Fisher, and he was also part of the team that helped train Bellator Champion Dan Hornbuckle. With a lifelong passion for Muay Thai, Nilahn brings a wealth of coaching experience to Vonnora that is difficult to match outside of training in Thailand.
John Boland, Coach
John is one of the coaches at Vonnora Muay Thai and he currently teaches the youth and beginner classes, Monday through Friday. Born and raised in the Central Illinois area, his Muay Thai journey began with Nilahn in February 2022. Initially, his goal was to lose weight, but his focus quickly shifted to both competition and coaching. Since then, he has competed in both national tournaments, amateur promotions, and scrimmages, while also having lost 50 pounds, proving the effective health benefits of training Muay Thai. He enjoys coaching as it gives him the opportunity to be a positive influence in the lives of his students as he shares his passion for Muay Thai in a clear and patient manner.