Sometimes, the hardest hits in life don’t come from an opponent’s punch—they come from our own self-doubts. Haidon Allen was climbing the ranks in amateur boxing when he stepped into the ring with one of the world’s top 25 fighters. He left that match humbled, questioning everything, and ready to throw in the towel.

From youth baseball to high school football, Division 1 wrestling to MMA, he had always been chasing the best version of himself. Haidon had once before almost allowed his athletic journey to be defined by giving up and it wasn’t going to happen again. So what made him step back into the ring after that crushing defeat? The unwavering support of his biggest fans, his family. Haidon Vongsarvanhlao is a professional boxer from St, Helens, Oregon.

https://www.laoamericansports.com/haidon-allen

https://www.instagram.com/official_haidonallen/

https://www.facebook.com/haidon.allen

Music: summer of 1984 by RKVC

Mason Bannavong seemed to have it all — a college degree, peak physical fitness, and a dream job in the bustling city of Dallas. But life took a sudden turn, leaving him broke, unemployed, and back in his hometown of Amarillo, Texas. Hitting rock bottom might have seemed like the end but for Mason, it became the solid foundation he needed to rebuild upon. With the support of his family, newfound confidence, and an enduring passion for fitness, he carved out a name for himself in the fitness and powerlifting communities. Now, as a personal trainer, Mason empowers others to strengthen not just their bodies, but their minds and spirits.

www.instagram.com/teamso1training/

open.spotify.com/show/1moR4n7yVyVZB22xemY0Zn?si=e2934be2e52d49d5

www.facebook.com/mbannavong28/

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC

The cornfields of Iowa and the lush tropics of Southeast Asia may seem worlds apart, but when Shamik Hayes first set foot in Laos, he felt an undeniable sense of home. Rediscovering the culture rooted deep in his family’s history ignited a passion that would propel him to become one of America’s top Muay Thai fighters. For some, fighting is about glory; for others, it’s the thrill of competition. But for Shamik, every punch and kick is a tribute to his heritage. His ultimate dream? To represent his Lao roots on the international stage.

https://www.instagram.com/blasian_one712/

Music: Summer of 1984 by RKVC