Javier Mendez is a former world champion kickboxer and renowned MMA coach, best known as the founder of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, California. Born in Michoacán, Mexico, he came to the United States with his family chasing a better life—and built one through grit, humility, and discipline. Over the years, he’s turned those same values into a philosophy shaping champions both inside and outside the cage. As a coach, he’s worked with fighters including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, Daniel Cormier, and Cain Velasquez, while building a gym culture rooted in loyalty, respect, and relentless preparation. His mission has always been simple: build better fighters, and better people. Whether you’re stepping into a cage, a boardroom, or the biggest fight of your life—he’s in your corner.