From Fitness to Fighter: Northern Kings’ Warrior Yasmin Nazary’s Path Through Muay Thai

From the first time she laced up her gloves, Yasmin Nazary knew she was stepping into something deeper than just fitness, it was the beginning of a journey rooted in grit, discipline, and heart. A dedicated Muay Thai boxer representing Northern Kings, Yasmin competes in the lightweight division, embracing the art of eight limbs with a style shaped by elbow strikes, clinch work, and relentless pressure. Every time she enters the ring, she brings more than just skill. She brings a mindset sharpened by challenge, a heart molded by setbacks, and a quiet fire that continues to push her forward in one of the world’s toughest sports.

What inspired you to start training in combat sports?
To get fit. That was the original goal. But it quickly became more than just fitness. It became a passion.

Which discipline did you start with, and how has your style evolved?
I started with Muay Thai boxing and instantly loved it. I’ve stuck with it ever since and built my style around it.

How would you describe your fighting style in one sentence?
Muay Sok – I’m an elbow and clinch fighter who thrives in close-range combat.

Who are your biggest influences or role models in combat sports?
Iman Barlow, Lerdsila, Amy Pirnie, and Tim Thomas. Each of them brings something special to the fight game that I deeply admire.

What’s been the toughest fight of your career so far, and why?
Amy Pirnie. She hits like a train. That fight turned into pure survival mode, and it tested me in every way.

How do you mentally prepare before stepping into the ring or cage?
I recently started working with mind coach Kevin Dorman. He’s done an amazing job helping me shift my mindset, especially leading up to my most recent fight.

What’s your training schedule like during fight camp versus the off-season?
During fight camp, it’s double sessions and lots of running. Off-season, I dial it back to single sessions and take it a bit easier on the cardio.

How important is diet and recovery in your routine?
Massively important. Diet can be tough, especially after a fight when you want to relax, but it’s all about not losing control. Recovery is equally vital.

Have you ever had to overcome a major injury or setback? How did you bounce back?
Yes, more than once. Injuries and illness have sidelined me, and it’s frustrating. But I’ve learned to see those moments as my body’s way of demanding rest. Once I’m healed, the hunger to fight comes back stronger.

What’s your go-to move or combination that opponents should fear?
Maybe not fear exactly, but they know I’m going to throw an elbow.

Do you study your opponents before fights, or rely more on your instincts?
I don’t study them much. We’re both training and evolving, so analyzing an old version of someone isn’t always useful. I trust my instincts.

How do you handle nerves or pressure before a big match?
I flip the nerves into excitement. It changes the energy completely.

What’s one misconception people have about combat sports or fighters?
That we’re all muscle and aggression. In reality, most of us are just normal, kind people – maybe a bit crazy because we love to fight!

Which do you value more in a fight – technique, power, or heart? Why?
All three are crucial. But heart? Heart is everything. Without it, you won’t survive the tough moments. Power and technique can be taught. Heart can’t.

Is there a dream opponent or match you’d love to have in the future?
No dream match in particular. I trust my coach’s plan and go where he leads.

How do you balance the intensity of combat sports with your personal life?
It’s tough. I have a 3-year-old son, and I make sure we still have fun together. He understands when I’m in fight camp, training has to come first, but I always make time for him.

How do you stay focused during a long, grueling round?
By knowing that if I lose focus, I could get caught with a big shot. That thought keeps me sharp.

How do you handle criticism, whether from coaches, fans, or media?
I take it on the chin. The only opinion that really matters is my coach’s.

How do you want to be remembered in the world of combat sports?
For everything I’ve accomplished and the warriors I’ve stood across from. Win or lose, I want people to remember the level of competition and grit.

What advice would you give to young fighters just starting out?
Work hard. Listen to your coach. And remember – this is a marathon, not a sprint.

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