About Coach Nelly

My name is Nelson Ouderkirk, and I am the proud owner and operator of Nelly Knows Boxing. You can call me Nelson or Nelly—whichever you prefer. My journey into martial arts began at the age of 10, when I signed up at a local boxing gym. Fast forward to today, and I have accumulated over 15 years of experience, both casually and competitively, training in various gyms and regions. This includes a formative three-month period in Mexico, where I trained daily at a renowned Muay Thai gym alongside elite strikers from the UFC and other top divisions worldwide.

My decision to start boxing was driven by the typical challenges of being the youngest in my family—experiencing bullying and a strong desire to build strength, confidence, and self-defense skills. However, as I immersed myself in the sport, I quickly discovered that boxing was far more than a solution to my initial struggles. It became an incredible workout, a gateway to forming lasting friendships, and a source of discipline and drive that no other sport could match.

The core values of martial arts—respect, discipline, and hard work—have permeated every aspect of my life, from academics to professional endeavors. The confidence gained through this pursuit has been transformative, empowering me in interviews, new social interactions, and daily life. I am profoundly grateful for how martial arts have shaped me, and it is my mission to help others experience the same growth and empowerment.