Khalil Rountree Jr.: The MMA Fighter with a Muay Thai Heart

January 16, 2026

Khalil Rountree Jr. is one of the most recognized MMA fighters in the UFC today, admired not only for his explosive power, elite fighting skills, and strong mentality, but also for his deep connection to Thailand and Muay Thai. The American fighter has captured the hearts of fans worldwide—especially in Thailand—by embracing Thai traditions, from wearing the sacred Mongkol and Buddhist amulets to showing respect during pre-fight rituals and walkouts. Beyond his success inside the Octagon, Rountree’s story reflects a genuine passion for Thai culture and Muay Thai, earning him the reputation of a true “American with a Thai heart.”

Get to Know Khalil Rountree Jr., the UFC Fighter Inspired by Muay Thai

Born on February 26, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, Khalil Rountree Jr. began his journey in mixed martial arts as an amateur fighter in 2010. From the early stages of his career, he chose to focus heavily on Muay Thai, traveling to Thailand to train in authentic camps and immerse himself in the country’s fighting culture. This experience played a crucial role in shaping his aggressive striking style and deep respect for Thai martial arts. In 2014, Rountree turned professional in the light heavyweight division, briefly competed at middleweight, and later returned to light heavyweight, where he continues to compete today. Across 22 professional bouts, he has earned 14 victories with 9 KOs solidifying his reputation as a dangerous striker and a fan favorite among combat sports enthusiasts worldwide.

The MMA Fighter Who Calls Thailand His Second Home

Khalil Rountree Jr. has spoken openly about traveling to Thailand to train since his teenage years, where Muay Thai became the foundation of his MMA striking style. What began as a pursuit of elite training soon grew into a deep emotional connection with the country—so strong that Thailand feels like a second home to him. Beyond training with Thai coaches and practicing in local Muay Thai gyms, Rountree has shown genuine respect for Thai traditions, wearing the sacred Mongkol and Buddhist amulets during UFC media appearances before his light heavyweight title bout against Alex Pereira.

Khalil’s Yantra tattoo represents protection, power, and the warrior’s path. Image source: Khalil Rountree - Facebook

His connection to Thailand is also reflected in his Sak Yant tattoos, rooted in Thai beliefs and spirituality. Even in his personal life, this bond continues—he chose a traditional Thai-style wedding with his wife, Mia Kang, and celebrated their honeymoon in Phuket, further confirming his lifelong passion for Muay Thai and Thai culture.

UA relaxed selfie of Khalil with his wife and friends while exploring a tropical fruit orchard in Samut Songkhram. Image source: Khalil Rountree - Facebook

Viral Training Moment: Superbon Spars with Khalil Rountree Jr.

Khalil-MMA-Fighter-with-Muay-Thai-Heart-P1-Khalil-Spars-with-Superbon.png UFC fighter Khalil Rountree Jr. has spent significant time in Thailand, training at Superbon Training Camp and sparring with Superbon to sharpen his Muay Thai striking and overall MMA skills. Image source: Muay Thai Authority - Facebook

In early November 2025, fans of Khalil Rountree Jr. were thrilled by a viral training video showing him sparring with Superbon from Superbon Training Camp, the Thai superstar and reigning ONE Championship Kickboxing Featherweight World Champion (145 lbs). While some viewers initially questioned the size difference between the two fighters, the session was clearly a lighthearted and friendly sparring exchange rather than a serious matchup. What made the clip explode across social media was the global recognition of both athletes—an elite UFC contender and a world-class Thai striking champion—sharing the ring in a moment that celebrated mutual respect, skill, and the universal language of Muay Thai.

Follow the Path of Champions: Train Muay Thai and MMA in Thailand

The story of Khalil Rountree Jr., an American MMA fighter with a true Thai heart, perfectly highlights the power and global appeal of Muay Thai. More than just Thailand’s traditional martial art, Muay Thai has proven to be an effective and respected fighting system capable of dominating opponents at the highest level of competition. For those inspired by Rountree’s journey and dreaming of training Muay Thai in Thailand, the path begins here. Through Nowmuaythai.com, you can discover Muay Thai Gyms across the country and explore a wide range of training classes—whether your goal is fitness, weight loss, self-improvement, or becoming a professional fighter. Wherever you are on your journey, authentic Muay Thai training in Thailand awaits.