My son enrolled here to try Muay Thai for the first time. The first class focused on drills and conditioning. On the second day, he was paired to spar with a 14‑year‑old girl who repeatedly used elbows to his head. He chose not to match her force because he was trying to be respectful. We contacted the coach afterward and were under the impression the situation would be addressed. On the third day, a 9‑year‑old was sparring in the adult class. My son (5'8", 174 lbs, and on only his third day) tried to guide the younger child by reminding him to keep his hands up. At some point, the coach felt my son made contact too hard. An adult student named Greg--over 6 feet tall and more than 300 lbs--then asked to spar with my son; my son being new and being instructed to spar with everyone accepts to spar. He struck my son hard multiple times and got a clean hit to the face. When my son asked him to tone it down, Greg responded that my son should have done the same with the younger child and if he wanted him to tone it down my son should do the same with the 9 year old. The coach later stated that he had been watching the interactions but did not step in. He defended Greg's behavior while also saying it "wasn't okay," and his only proposed solution was to talk to Greg. He also questioned why my son returned after feeling uncomfortable on day two. The coach repeatedly emphasized that this is a "fighting gym," yet allowed a clear size and experience imbalance to escalate without intervention. This environment does not appear to prioritize safety, supervision, or appropriate pairing--especially for beginners or younger participants. The coach acknowledged that if Greg had gone "really hard," my son would not have been standing, which raises further concerns about oversight and risk management. If you are looking for a structured, safe, and positive learning environment focused on skill development, discipline, and proper supervision--especially at $200 per month per person--this may not be the right fit. My son attended to learn self‑defense and gain confidence, not to be placed in unsafe or poorly supervised sparring situations. read more

Great gym, atmosphere, and trainers. Look no further if you want to learn how to defend yourself, get in shape, or compete.

If you're trying to get into some kind of training i HIGHLY recommend this business ! I am a 23 year old woman and i have my 5 year old son looking into training we did the week trial and i cant even tell you how much my son learned and how much i learned in a week! Each class if youre trying to enroll your child starts at 5-6 PM and for adults its from 6-7 PM. I used to train mma and boxing when i was younger so coming into hard knocks it was very familiar, what i really loved was that nostalgic feeling. The teaching is very similar to how my sensei was, watching Renzo teach the younger students you can tell they are very well disciplined and they are quick to follow directions and having my 5 year old come into training Renzo was not afraid to correct any bad behavior but also help assist with his training by showing and teaching him which is very appreciated and important! You can tell he is very serious at yours or your child's progression and learning. Renzo is a very funny and passionate person, he makes sure he walks around observing and correcting, he does demonstrations on certain movements, and each day of the week its a specific training day. Before we found Hard Knocks i took my son to Victory and you can tell they just do it for the money over there they didn't make an effort to actually show any proper stance or show my son how to properly punch or kick. Overall i highly recommend enrolling yourself, your kids, or your partners into Hard Knocks ! read more

Renzo is an amazing coach and I improve every time i come! Amazing place for training would recommend!!!

If 0 stars was an option I would have rated that as ZERO ! Zero Human Relations from the coach ! Not nice at all to the parents that pay so much money!! Been there for 6 months , and would never go back there ! Not recommend AT ALL ! read more

Great martial arts dojo! Sensei Renzo does a very good job of running the place, and he has all the equipment you might imagine for training and practicing. Highly recommended. read more

I started judo around six. When I saw some reviews that look like a snowflake wrote them and they were negative about this dojo, I knew this is where my son would train. As a former Marine I can say without question this where you should train if you want discipline and spirit! read more

Our son LOVES his muay thai class at Hard Knocks. Renzo is amazing with the kids, as well as the students that help out. We've noticed a positive change in our son because not only is he learning self defense, he's building confidence and having a lot of fun. I 100% recommend this place. read more

When asked how much private sessions were I was told I couldn't afford it. Sometimes no one else would show up for classes and the owner would just sit there yelling exercises to do while playing on his phone. Jokes. Criticizing comments meant to me "jokes". Also note. If you work with anyone else there that does private lessons make sure you get a contract on paper. I was accused of rescheduling constantly. When sometimes I would have to wait for my sessions to start as whoever was before me went over time. Trying to get my money back for the sessions I never got to use because the trainer I guess was too busy to take clients was absolute hell. No one knows where the money is. Was told a certain time. Then the owner says I have 5 min to get there. When I arrived he was obviously teaching a class. All about money. Make sure your contacts are ON PAPER. UPDATE!!! Over a year later I still have plantar fasciitis, have had surgery and still have issues with pain in my foot. And being that the trainer had me training all over the place, who's to be held accountable for that??? MAKE SURE ANY AGREEMENTS ARE MADE ON PAPER!!! read more

Omg guys do not take you're kids there !!!! The teacher is very rude with the kids!!! Just Run away from this place! This teacher is not supposed to work with children! I feel sorry that I spent my money there It doesn't word a penny!!!!!!!! If you love your kids and care about them find better place I DO NOT RECOMMEND AT ALL read more

Hard Knocks is an excellent muay thai school. My son Diesel fought 3 of their kids in a match and they gave such a good fight, we had to check them out. Coach Renzo is awesome and gave us some great tips. They have a ring, which is important if you want to spar realistically and learn the craft. It was controlled training and sparring and we didn't feel like it was a challenge match being we train at a different school. Coach Renzo coached both kids while they sparred. If it were just a little closer to where we live, we'd be traing here. Anyway we look forward to meeting them again at any future competitions. You would do well to train here to learn how to fight! read more

Don't come here for the conditioning. I bought a groupon, the owner pretended he'd never heard of it then stared at me accusingly, asking if I made it up to get free classes (as I showed it to him on my phone). The conditioning class - the first day the owner ignored us for a half hour while he trained some fighters, telling us to "jump rope and hit the bag." After that we did basic kettlebell and rope exercises. The second time I was the only one there and he just went home. For fitness: Save yourself the money, join a good gym (like City Athletic Club), and learn some kettlebell exercises (swing, clean, press, squats), bagwork, and heavy rope swings. As for Muay Thai - At $160/month ($210 month with Jiu Jitsu), it's more expensive than almost every gym in town. Wanderlei Silva's Gym near the strip has more classes, better fighters, and more experienced trainers for the price. I can't see this being a very good deal. read more

With Las Vegas hosting so many Mixed Martial Arts events, it's no surprise that we have such an abundance of schools teaching Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, and/or Muay Thai. Competition between business benefits the customers. I joined Hard Knocks about 2 years ago. I asked around to see which Muay Thai schools were good, and a surprising number of my friends who train in Muay Thai said they love training at HK. I'm not trying to knock on other schools out there with this review, but from the impression I get from other people at competitions, HK has the best trainer and students. Renzo is not your everyday McMuayThai instructor. He's actually trained in Thailand, competed in Thailand, and WON in Thailand. He keeps the atmosphere light when training, but pushes each individual hard. The students themselves are friendly. My first week I was pretty intimidated to come in, but everyone was willing to help me on technique and always gave me pointers. There aren't any guys/girls in here just trying to beat up on people to prove a point. No Johnny Lawrence's here. The facility isn't as big as the more main stream schools, but it has everything needed for training. Price-wise, it's probably the cheapest you're going to come across. At the time of this writing, HK also offers Jiu Jitsu, taught by a black belt. Hardknocks offers classes in the morning and evening, and even sessions for kids in the afternoon. Females need not fear for there is a good number of ladies who train. And they're pretty tough themselves. I joined Hardknocks at 255 lbs. At my lightest I went down to 185. No other place or sport has been able to motivate me enough to lose that much weight. 5 stars, definitely. read more

I gave this class my best but the teacher was way too advanced for a beginner like me. I was paired up with fighters before I even understood how to move and ended up being a punching bag for the other students. They do not have enough classes to accommodate a female just learning, and the class sizes are too big to break down the moves in smaller easier to understand increments. I was very disappointed and unfortunately pre-paid by six months so I'm also stupid. Lesson learned. read more

The real deal Holyfield. With so many martial arts gyms to choose from which one do you choose? You can have all the state of the art equipment, lockers, a plethora of weights and exercise equipment but the bottom line is that It always come down to your instructor. With head instructor Renzo's numerous certifications, years of experience and training it certainly doesn't make it difficult to decide that he's one of the cream of the crop when it comes to Muay Thai in Las Vegas. I cannot comment on the additional classes he and his other instructors have to offer: Jits/BJJ and Eskrima/Filipino Martial Arts but the Muay Thai classes were great. If you're looking to diversify your modes of working out, can afford to join them (forgot the cost) and live in the area you should most definitely check em out. They offer a one week trial, with numerous class times spread throughout the day. So there. No more excuses. What are you waiting for? Grab your gloves, wraps and shins of steel, keep ya hands up, don't forget to breathe and get ready for one hell of a ride.. read more

Hard Knocks Muay Thai has changed me. I've lost weight, gained muscle, and I've started running everyday in addition to the kickboxing classes. In one month, Muay Thai and Renzo have taught me what self discipline means. That's why I love this place. Renzo will push you to your limit. He's a hard-driving coach like no other. He knows your limits better than you do, and he's always pointing out ways your technique can improve. Even after years of college classes with a dozens of professors, I can say that Renzo is the best teacher of anything that I have ever met. I cannot speak highly enough of this gym. read more

I took my Daughter to the Hard knocks and they were closing . They took the time out of their personal time to make us feel at ease and answered all our questions . Chris and Art did not hesitate to explain everything. We left with my daughter and wife signing up. On the first day of the girls class I walked from work to watch them workout and Renzo met me and Chris and Art remembered my name . I love the old school training and the family atmosphere . The price to join was fair and everyone is pleasant and Respectful . This is not a place for pansies or I want life to be fair personalities. This is a place for those to work hard and get out what they put in.. read more

Decided to change up my workout, and wanted to do something different. Researched via the web and found Hard Knocks. I have never trained in any martial art, boxing, nor anything similar. Former baseball player back in the day, and regular weights, treadmill gym for years. I talked with the owner and felt very good when someone offers 1 week free, with confidence that they will earn your business. I have taken the "power conditioning" classes and have been challenged, learned several new techniques, and got a great workout each time. The other students in the class have been really nice and supportive, helping an obvious rookie! Looking forward to my next class!!! I highly recommend HNMT !! read more

Love this place my son has been going there since he was 4 1/2 and now he's 6 and now my daughter does it too. Renzo is old school and kids listen to him. He teaches them discipline and is great instructor. My kids enjoy it ! Thanks Renzo! read more

The focus is on competitions for adults, while allowing the kids program to suffer. While infrequent, the best kids' classes are when lead instructor, Renzo, is absent, and a senior student substitutes. Frequent classes cancelled without advance notice (you find out when you get there), and kids classes are cut short 10-15 minutes (17-25% of the scheduled time) regularly. PROS: - 5 days / wk (6 for adults) - great place for kids to lose fear of getting hit - former / current pro-fighter teachers CONS: - kids classes cut short 15 minutes REGULARLY - technique NOT priority in kids class (both calisthenics and fighting) - utter LACK of discipline in kids class - classes cancelled WITHOUT notice Better options available in town. Be sure to sit through a few classes prior to signing up. read more

Technical School..good training...Art is on of the best Jiu-Jitsu instructer I've ever trained with.... read more

Hard Knocks Muay Thai & Judo - Muay Thai Near Me - Las Vegas, Nevada

Training under Renzo I learned very quickly he very sharp with detail and very structure in your training and knowing how to best develop and utilize your Muay Thai Training. When you walk into his classes you will always recognize a difference in your training with more advancement to confidently meet your goals of fitness and combat. A few months ago I drove by his gym to pop in and say hello to just see what Muay Thai was all about and now it's the only training I do daily. Goodbye CrossFit, Goodbye 24 Hour Fitness. read more

Renzo and Christine are true professional coaches in martial arts and also are the most caring person. They are not only teaching my 12 year old son Muay Thai they also care about his behavior and learning in school. They guide kids to not only be a good fighter but also be a good young person. Most importantly my son enjoys learning and wants to go to the gym every day. I would recommend everyone to join Hard Knocks Muay Thai. read more

I've seen this gym grow.. I was one of the early members of the gym when Hardknocks first opened at the old location. I've Been training martial arts for over 12 years on and off.. I've been to a few gyms around town and when it comes to MUAY THAI.. Nothing compares to how Renzo (head trainer/owner) teaches.. Real traditional Muay Thai techniques. The gym is clean.. And well equipped.. From heavy bags to different pads used for different work outs.. Training to fight or just to get in shape.. Everyone is welcomed at Hardknocks.. That's the atmosphere. I suggest you come and try it! read more

So I recently took advantage of the first week free and I did not regret it, I learned a lot in that short amount of time and the staff is knows their stuff! Renzo is a great teacher and gets the most out of you, there were times I wanted to quit but he would not let me. I also was able to train with another teacher Chris who is also a fighter and he gave me a great insight on all the techniques. Overall if you are looking for a great workout plus excellent kickboxing instruction I would highly recommend Hard Knocks! It is definitely not for the faint of heart or mind, and it will give you a great workout no matter what level of fitness you are on. The prices are also a lot more reasonable than most places around Vegas. Take advantage of the free week and let me know how it turns out! And try not to get you butt kicked! Haha, just kidding ;) read more

great gym for those who want a hard workout or learn the techniques. Also good for getting ready for a real Muay Thai fight.

Trained here while in town from Tampa, FL. Knowledgeable Muay Thai instructor, friendly and welcoming group of students. Great experience, recommend checking it out. read more

The trainers here do a great job keeping me motivated! I came in with no fight experience and they've coached me every step of the way from the basics to more advanced techniques. The strength and conditioning class is a nice perk as well, it has strengthened me in all aspects that can be applied to Muay thai. You know you're in for a good day of training when it's with the team at Hard Knocks! read more

I'll be honest, I was a little skeptical about coming here. I was nervous on my first day about how nice the students would be and the trainers. But it turned out to be really cool! Renzo was really cool, funny, and a great trainer! I attend the 6:00 PM Muay Thai on Monday Wednesdays and Fridays, and conditioning on Tuesdays and Thursdays. So what are you waiting for? Get off of Yelp and go sign up! read more

I recommend this gym to anyone who wants to learn, get fit and meet good people. I've been four months since attending, excellent training you learn something new every day and improves the workout. So, if you are seating on the couch reading this review don't waist more time and join us, you will have fun. read more

I love the atmosphere of this gym my daughter has been training here and my husband and I always feel welcome this is an amazing place with amazing people read more

Want real Muay Thai, this is the place to go for adults classes, children classes, and extremely family oriented. One on one personal attention from the master himself, you don't get lost in the crowd. another thing I liked about this gym is i dont get stuck with macho attitudes its a humble gym. A guarantee workout you will leave feeling great. Whether you want to compete or get healthier this is definitely the best place in Vegas to go. Clean, friendly, and most important CLEAN TECHNIQUE. Week free and affordable also which was doable for me. I've never been to a better place and I've shopped around. read more

Top place to train in town ...the class size is just right so its more like a private ivy league school for muay thai not like the big factory gyms where you get less one 0n one time with the instructor and kinda guess your own way through the technique. Also more of an old school family feel to it...if you train there u r family/sucks because gyms these days are losing that and just want to take your money & run read more

this place is the real deal the trianer Renzo is awesome he will get you in shape and you'll diffinily learn how to fight I put my son in this school a year ago and he's confidence is sky high. Renzo does not let you quite. my son hurt he's ankle at home a few month's ago and haven't been able to go to class and Renzo is understanding to his injury. my son can't wait to get back to training. if your looking for a real fighting jim this is the place to go you,your wife or your kids will diffinily learn how to fight. read more

This is the best Muay Thai gym in the valley. I started here about 3 weeks ago with 2 years of training prior. Renzo has definitely sharpened my skills from the stance to the clinching, I can really feel myself getting better. He makes sure to break you out of your mold (not doing the same thing over again when fighting/sparring) which is really important. On top of that, everyone trains with everyone! Which is what I like, doesn't matter the experience. I really love the atmosphere here as well. I seriously cannot wait to compete so I can utilize what he's taught me. read more

Hard Knocks is the best!! Renzo is an amazing teacher. Very challenging but worth the reward! Reducing stress is one of the amazing benefits of Muay Thai. Renzo makes the workouts challenging but a lot of fun. Highly recommend giving it a try. read more

Best Muay Thai in the city of Las Vegas

This truly is my second home... That being said, everyone that walks through that door is greeted with respect and treated like family. I was brought in almost 3 years ago to try it out as something to do lol. I started training at 187lbs as a beginner with no intention to compete or any knowledge of Muay Thai at all. Pretty much the feel from the gym and everyone who trained there kept me interested. Renzo and the rest of hardknocks helped me drop down to 120lbs and I felt great! If your looking to lose weight or work harder to compete this is definitely the place to be! Renzo will help you get there if your willing to push yourself! One thing I will say, if you want to compete, you must work hard and understand that it will take time. Renzo only has YOUR safety in mind at ALL times, from inside the gym to when you make it inside the ring at an event. I highly recommend this Muay Thai gym, master Renzo is truly about the passion of teaching Muay Thai and helping you reach your goals, so give it a try! read more

Hard Knocks is a fantastic place to train. Kru Renzo is extremely good with all levels and adjusts accordingly. It's a great enviroment, family/team orientated, and always an excellent workout. You can come to expand your muay thai skill set or you can come to get a good workout. Regardless, I HIGHLY recommend. As well, I also strongly recommend privates as you will grow in leaps and bounds and they are well worth your money. I will never train anywhere else! read more

Master Renzo is one of a kind! You won't find a better teacher of Muay Thai anywhere! My girls have been with him for 6 years, Renzo and the Hard Knocks family have all played a huge role in raising our girls to be the confident and respectful young ladies they are! HardKnocks for life! read more