Mick Doyle

Mick Doyle – Head Coach & Personal Trainer

Mick Doyle, originally from Dublin, Ireland, began his journey in combat sports at the age of 5, starting with boxing and later expanding into martial arts at the age of 7. Encouraged by his father to develop discipline and dedication, Mick practiced every martial art available in Ireland at the time. His efforts paid off as he became the Irish National and European Junior Kickboxing Champion, remaining undefeated from 1980 through 1985.

 

In December 1985, Mick emigrated to the United States to attend university. With full-contact kickboxing unavailable in the Midwest, Mick channeled his training into freestyle martial arts competitions. He achieved remarkable success, including winning the U.S. Karate Championships as a black belt in Oklahoma in 1988. Mick claimed his first World Muay Thai title in 1989 and added a second in 1994.

 

In 1996, Mick began studying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after attending a Rickson Gracie seminar, incorporating this discipline into his weekly training. The same year, he was appointed Head Coach of the U.S. National Muay Thai Team, leading the team to victory at the prestigious King’s Cup in Thailand. Mick’s Muay Thai career took him around the globe, competing in Kazakhstan, Holland, Russia, France, England, Scotland, Spain, and Germany.

 

Eager to challenge his grappling skills, Mick entered and won the lightweight division of the Bas Rutten Invitational No Holds Barred tournament in 1998. He also triumphed at the Budokai Bare Knuckle Challenge that year and competed in events such as the Sabaki Challenge and the Shidokan Bare Knuckle Championships. Mick’s final professional fight took place in Beijing, China, during the first-ever professional Mixed Martial Arts event held there.

 

Since retiring from competition, Mick has devoted his life to coaching. He has had the distinct honor of serving as the National Team Head Coach for both Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts. Over the years, he has coached numerous champions and continues to work with some of the world’s top professional fighters.

 

Operating his gym in Omaha since 1989, Mick has been at his current location for more than 25 years. A second-stripe black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, he proudly represents Fabio Santos BJJ, maintaining a direct lineage to Master Rickson Gracie.

 

Mick lives by the Warrior Code and the ancient Samurai maxim: “Everything, everybody outside of myself is my teacher.”His legacy as a fighter, coach, and lifelong martial artist continues to inspire those around him.

Willie Stewert

Willie Stewert – Personal Trainer & Coach

Willie Stewart has been a cornerstone of Mick Doyle’s Gym since 1996. Over the years, he has studied multiple disciplines, including Gan Teora (earning a second-degree Black Belt), Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Boxing, and MMA.

 

As the assistant coach for the Team Doyle Competition Team, Willie has played an integral role in developing champions, helping coach 37 national champions and cornering 3 world champions.

 

Willie is also a certified personal trainer through ISSA and has been a valued staff member since 2002. With a deep passion for training and helping individuals achieve their goals, Willie is dedicated to guiding people of all levels toward success, both in and out of the ring.

Josh Kidney

Josh Kidney – Jiu Jitsu Coach & Personal Trainer

Josh began his journey at Mick Doyle’s Gym in 2011 when he found himself 30 pounds overweight and nearing his 30th birthday. A friend had told him that Mick Doyle’s Gym had some of the toughest workouts in Omaha, and Josh quickly discovered that was true. With expert guidance in nutrition and exercise, he not only lost the weight and got in shape but also found a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

 

Now, 14 years later, Josh is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer, a Precision Nutrition Certified Coach, and a Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu. His dedication to fitness and self-defense extends beyond the gym—he is also the Lead Instructor at 88 Tactical, where he teaches several handgun courses as well as Jiu-Jitsu.

 

Josh believes that fitness, nutrition, and the ability to fight are key components of living a fulfilled life. His passion lies in helping others experience the benefits of strength, confidence, and discipline through training.

Austin Bailey

Austin Bailey – From Beginner to Muay Thai Champion

Austin has been training at Mick Doyle’s Gym for over seven years, starting his journey with no prior experience in martial arts. In the early days, he wrestled with self-doubt and even considered quitting. But thanks to the encouragement of a friend he made early on—shout out to Tyler Sabel—Austin chose to persevere, and that decision changed everything.

 

This past year, Austin took his training to the next level, traveling to Thailand to immerse himself in the birthplace of Muay Thai. He lived and trained there for a month, culminating in a victorious fight that he describes as a dream come true. His journey is a powerful testament to the growth that comes from dedication and resilience.

 

Today, Austin is one of the head coaches of the Muay Thai program at Mick Doyle’s Gym. He also brings experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, Taekwondo, and MMA to his teaching, offering a well-rounded approach to martial arts training.

 

Outside the gym, Austin is a creative soul with a passion for digital art, often drawing on his tablet in his downtime. He’s also an avid gamer who enjoys a good night of gaming. Praise the sun!
 

Austin’s story is proof that sticking with something, even when it’s hard, can lead to extraordinary achievements. He’s excited to help others on their martial arts journey and inspire them to reach their milestones.

Emeka Ifekandu

Emeka Ifekandu – Martial Arts Coach

Emeka Ifekandu walked into Mick Doyle’s Gym as an undefeated amateur fighter but with raw skills, determined to sharpen his abilities. Through relentless training and unwavering dedication, he honed his craft in boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and Muay Thai. His hard work paid off in 2014 when he became the North American Muay Thai runner-up, solidifying his place as a formidable competitor.

 

Emeka went on to become a champion in his MMA division, turning professional immediately after. He now boasts an undefeated record fighting for BKFC (Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship) and has also secured impressive victories in professional MMA and boxing. A brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a skilled wrestler, and an elite striker, Emeka is a well-rounded martial artist who embodies the warrior spirit.

 

More than his achievements, Emeka is an inspiration to those around him. His journey proves that it’s never too late to start, learn, and excel. He came into martial arts at an older age, trained at Mick Doyle’s Gym, became a champion, and made it look easy. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: Just because life tells you that you can’t do something doesn’t mean your free will has been denied. You can do whatever you set your mind to—and use it to help others.

 

A friendly and motivating presence in the gym, Emeka pushes his students to chase greatness, strive for gold, and never give up. His passion for martial arts and personal growth makes him not only a skilled coach but also a role model for those looking to transform their lives through discipline and perseverance.

Matt Cochran

Matt Cochran– Martial Artist & Coach

With nearly 34 years of martial arts experience, Matt began training at the age of five and has dedicated his life to continuous learning and growth. Having moved frequently in his younger years, he trained in various styles, earning a Junior Black Belt in American Kempo and a Brown Belt in traditional Taekwondo. Today, he holds a 2nd Degree Black Belt in a hybrid Taekwondo system and a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Mick Doyle and Fabio Santos.

 

Beyond martial arts, Matt has been a competitive athlete for most of his life, excelling in swimming, boxing, kickboxing, track and field, powerlifting, and college football. His dedication to discipline and perseverance also led him to serve in the United States Navy, reinforcing his leadership and commitment to excellence.

 

Currently, Matt teaches Construction Management at Iowa Western Community College, where he also serves as the Construction High School Liaison and Skills USA Instructor. Whether in the classroom or on the mat, he is passionate about teaching, mentoring, and helping others develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed in both martial arts and life.

Cormac Doyle

Cormac Doyle – Muay Thai Instructor

Cormac Doyle is one of the lead Muay Thai instructors at Mick Doyle’s Gym. As Mick’s youngest son, he has been immersed in martial arts since the moment he could make a fist. A dedicated athlete and coach, Cormac is a two-time silver medalist at the Muay Thai Nationals and has played a pivotal role in coaching multiple national champions. His passion for training extends beyond the ring—he has been an ISSA-certified personal trainer since 2020.

 

When he’s not working one-on-one with clients, you’ll find Cormac leading Muay Thai classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays or coaching the competition fight team. His hands-on, technical approach ensures that students not only master the art of Muay Thai but also develop confidence and self-defense skills that extend into everyday life.

 

Outside of the gym, Cormac embraces his role as the youngest of three brothers, enjoying time with family, reading comics, playing video games, and cheering on his favorite esports team, Optic Texas. His passion for martial arts, combined with his energetic and encouraging coaching style, makes him an invaluable part of Mick Doyle’s Gym.

Tyler Harris

Tyler Harris – Wrestling Coach

Tyler Harris is one of the dedicated wrestling coaches at Mick Doyle’s Gym. He began his wrestling journey at just five years old and continued competing through high school, where his skills earned him a scholarship to Hastings College. While his athletic path ultimately shifted toward football, Tyler’s deep-rooted passion for wrestling has always been a cornerstone of his life.

 

In 2015, Tyler made the honorable decision to serve his country by joining the Nebraska National Guard. A true team player both on and off the mat, he’s known for his determination, athleticism, and ability to inspire others to reach their potential.

 

Tyler is married to his high school sweetheart and is a proud father to a beautiful daughter. Outside the gym, he enjoys spending quality time with family and friends and is often the life of any gathering he attends. His commitment to his family, country, and community makes him a valued coach and role model at Mick Doyle’s Gym.

Chris Bridger

Chris Bridger – Empowering Through Fitness and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Chris has been passionate about physical fitness her entire life. She believes that our bodies are among our greatest gifts and should be cared for with a healthful diet and appropriate exercise. In return, our bodies reward us with the ability to lead full and satisfying lives.

 

Her journey with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) began in January 2019, training first at 88 Tactical and later at Mick Doyle’s Gym. What initially started as a way to teach her daughters self-defense quickly became a family bonding activity. BJJ played a key role in fostering her daughters’ confidence as they navigated middle school, high school, and now college. Knowing they have the skills to protect themselves has been a source of comfort as they step out into the world.

 

In late 2023, Chris began co-teaching Women’s Self Defense classes at 88 Tactical. By early 2024, she expanded her role to co-teach a Women’s Only BJJ class at Mick Doyle’s Gym.

 

For Chris, teaching is deeply rewarding. Watching her students light up when they realize they can tackle hard challenges and are stronger than they believed inspires her every day. She is committed to empowering others to discover their inner strength and resilience through martial arts and self-defense.

Kent David Thompson

Kent David Thompson – Expert Grappling Coach and Air Force Veteran

Kent David Thompson brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role as a coach at Mick Doyle’s Gym. An Air Force veteran, Kent holds a degree in Exercise Science and Communication from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

 

During his wrestling career, Kent competed under the guidance of Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame coach Lewi Benitez and trained at elite camps alongside Olympians Dennis Hall and John Smith to prepare for national-level competitions. His extensive background in wrestling includes eight years of coaching, with a specialization in Greco-Roman wrestling.

 

Kent’s passion lies in helping clients and competitors achieve their goals, whether in fitness or the demanding world of combat arts and grappling. His expertise and commitment make him an invaluable part of the team, inspiring others to reach new levels of performance and success.

Scott “Cornbread” Knape

Scott Cornbread Knape – Coach & Mentor

Scott “Cornbread” Knape has been a dedicated member of Mick Doyle’s Gym for over six and a half years. At 30, he found himself reflecting on life, wondering, Is this it? There’s got to be more. Just two days later, he walked into Mick’s and never looked back. That decision led him on a path of self-discovery, personal growth, and an unbreakable bond with a community that has been there for him through life’s highs and lows.

 

Over the years, Scott has competed a few times, but what he values most about the gym isn’t just the training—it’s the people. The friendships and support he has found within these walls have helped him navigate some of life’s toughest moments, proving that challenges can be opportunities for growth. The gym became more than just a place to train; it became an outlet, a teacher, and a second home.

 

Married to his wife Rachel for 11 years, Scott is a proud father to his daughter Sloane (8) and son Henry (4). As his children grow, he has shifted his focus from competition to family, stepping into a coaching role to help others on their martial arts journeys. Coaching was the logical next step—a way to stay connected, continue learning, and give back to the gym that gave him so much.

 

Scott finds the most fulfillment in watching his students grow—not just in their athletic abilities and technical skills, but in their confidence. Many people walk through the doors unsure of themselves, and he takes great pride in seeing them leave with their heads high, shoulders back, and a newfound sense of strength. For Scott, martial arts is more than just physical training—it’s a way of life, and he’s honored to be part of helping others discover their own potential.

Kristine Reh

Kristine Reh – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Coach

Kristine began her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2015 and became a dedicated member of Mick Doyle’s Gym in 2017. Before discovering her passion for BJJ, she was a competitive bodybuilder, earning her IFPA pro card in 2011 and later qualifying for Nationals in the NPC. Her background in bodybuilding instilled in her a strong mindset, discipline, and resilience—qualities she carries into her Jiu-Jitsu practice. She firmly believes that mindset is the catalyst for success: If you believe, you can achieve.

 

A passionate practitioner, Kristine transitioned into co-teaching the Women’s Only BJJ and Women’s Self-Defense classes in 2023. She is deeply involved in the women’s BJJ community, always eager to support and uplift other women in their martial arts journeys. For her, the most fulfilling part of coaching is giving back—helping women build confidence, develop self-defense skills, and grow both on and off the mat.

 

Outside of the gym, Kristine cherishes time with her family. Whether they’re training together, visiting trampoline and water parks, or traveling to new destinations, she prioritizes making every moment count. She believes time is our most valuable asset and is committed to living life with intention, purpose, and joy.

Tyler Lemke

Tyler Lemke – Martial Artist & Kids’ Coach

Tyler has been training at Mick Doyle’s Gym for nearly 14 years. At 23 years old, he is currently enrolled at Metropolitan Community College, working toward his culinary degree—but martial arts has been a defining part of his journey since childhood.

 

At the age of three, Tyler was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and Autism. Doctors told his family that he would be lucky to walk normally and that an athletic future was unlikely. Refusing to accept those limitations, his family enrolled him at Mick Doyle’s Gym, hoping to improve his physical ability and provide a supportive community.

 

Since then, Tyler has far exceeded expectations, proving that perseverance and dedication can break down any barrier. With the encouragement of his coaches and fellow students, he has gained confidence, strength, and resilience, surpassing both physical and mental limitations.

 

Today, Tyler is a First-Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo and a dedicated kids’ class instructor at Mick Doyle’s Gym. Teaching young students has become one of his greatest passions, as he strives to inspire the next generation to believe in themselves, just as he was inspired.

 

Tyler continues to embrace every challenge and looks forward to the many lessons still ahead.

 

“It’s not about whether you get knocked down, it’s about whether you get back up.”

Israel Porter

Richard Ifekandu

Kevin Nuemann

Kevin Neumann – Kids’ Coach

Kevin Neumann brings a lifetime of experience in combat sports and leadership to his role as Kids’ Boxing Coach at Mick Doyle’s Gym. Originally from Columbus, NE, Kevin began wrestling and boxing in 1976. His early dedication to the sport led him to become a Regional Junior Golden Gloves Champion, earning an 11-2 record from October 1976 to March 1977. He continued wrestling through junior high and high school as a Columbus Discoverer.

 

Kevin’s commitment to discipline and excellence extended beyond sports. During his senior year of high school in 1983, he joined the Nebraska Army National Guard, where he built an impressive military career spanning nearly three decades. Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1986, Kevin served as an Infantry Officer, including a combat tour in Afghanistan (2008) as a Combat Advisor to an Afghan National Army Corps Commander. For his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantry Badge. He retired at the rank of Colonel in 2011.

 

Kevin’s journey with Mick Doyle’s Gym began in 1995 when he enrolled his six-year-old son in Mugendo lessons at Mick’s former gym. He soon joined the adult classes himself, training under Mick and competing in point sparring tournaments across Nebraska. In 1997, Mick encouraged Kevin to compete in the first annual Hixson Grace Jiu-Jitsu Tournament, where he placed third as a white belt. From 1997 to 2003, Kevin and his entire family actively trained and competed in various martial arts disciplines at Mick’s Gym.

 

In 2003, Kevin left the gym to attend the U.S. Army War College and complete his military service, but his bond with Mick remained strong, as they stayed in regular contact over the years.

 

In September 2023, Kevin’s grandson became the third-generation Neumann to train at Mick’s Gym, joining the kids’ boxing classes. Recognizing the need to separate kids’ and adults’ boxing classes, Kevin approached Coach Mick and Coach Richard with a desire to coach the kids’ boxing program—and he hasn’t looked back since.

 

With his deep knowledge of combat sports, leadership experience, and passion for teaching, Kevin is dedicated to helping young athletes build confidence, skill, and discipline—continuing the legacy of martial arts excellence at Mick Doyle’s Gym.