Luke “The Chef” Lessei, hailing from Iowa, is making waves in the world of Muay Thai with his dynamic striking skills. At just 29 years old, Lessei has decided to take his career to the next level by relocating to New Jersey, leaving his small-town roots behind. This move is aimed at enhancing his training and overall performance in the ONE Championship.
Since his arrival in New Jersey, Lessei has linked up with Beacon MMA, a well-respected gym where he trains under head coach Bob Peach. Here, he collaborates with Shane Fazen, a YouTube and social media influencer known for his channel, Fight Tips, which boasts over 3 million followers. Fazen played a pivotal role in Lessei’s recent success during his first-round knockout victory against Cody Jerome at ONE Fight Night 27 held in January.
Transitioning from Iowa to the East Coast has opened up new opportunities for Lessei in his Muay Thai career. His collaboration with Fazen showcases a unique mix of traditional martial arts training and modern digital engagement. Lessei first got to know Peach and Fazen while conducting a seminar at Beacon MMA, and their connection quickly grew stronger, fostering an environment conducive to both personal and professional growth.
In comments to onefc.com, Lessei shared details about his decision to move, stating, “I met Shane through Coach Peach, and they trained me for this last fight. I like their vibe. It’s been cool. After a seminar, I felt a connection and decided to pull the trigger and move to New Jersey.” He emphasized that both coaches are dedicated to helping him succeed in the ring while also assisting him in building his brand as a fighter.
The partnership between Lessei and Fazen transcends traditional training dynamics. Fazen, who serves as a training partner for Lessei, focuses on game strategy and technical breakdowns. “I go to class with Shane once a week. He breaks down film and helps with tactics,” Lessei explained. Although Fazen doesn't hold pads, he contributes valuable insights for fight preparation.
Lessei’s impressive performance against Jerome highlighted the improvements he has made at Beacon MMA. He appreciates the camaraderie and down-to-earth nature that Fazen brings, creating a comfortable training atmosphere reminiscent of his upbringing in Iowa. “We just get along. He’s a regular dude. The environment at the gym reflects the small-town values I grew up with,” Lessei noted.
In addition to honing his skills, Lessei recognizes the importance of building a personal brand as a fighter. Understanding the finite nature of a fighting career, he has dedicated time to enhancing “The Chef” brand beyond his in-ring performances. “Social media is important for the future. I can only fight for so long, so I need to build this brand to secure my future after retirement,” he stated.
While Lessei has succeeded in amassing a significant social media presence, he remains centered on his identity as a fighter. He is aware of the potential skepticism that comes with being both a fighter and an influencer. “Some people see me as just an Instagram fighter, but I’ve been involved in combat sports since I was 4. I’ve had a lot of fights. My experience speaks for itself,” he asserted. His commitment to producing relevant and engaging content further solidifies his reputable stance in the fight community.
In conclusion, Luke Lessei's journey from Iowa to New Jersey marks a pivotal moment in his Muay Thai career. With the support of his coaches at Beacon MMA and the influence of Shane Fazen, he is poised to make an even bigger impact in the ONE Championship. As he continues to build his brand and hone his fighting skills, fans eagerly await what “The Chef” will accomplish next inside the ring.
