The Knowlesy Academy – London’s Elite Muay Thai & K1 Gym
Welcome to The Knowlesy Academy, one of the UK’s leading Muay Thai and K1 gyms, founded by Christian Knowles, former UKMF British Champion and renowned striking coach. With locations in Burnt Oak and Borehamwood, the academy is home to world-class fighters, expert trainers, and a thriving community of students ranging from beginners to professional athletes.
Locations
- Burnt Oak, London – Central hub for training, fitness, and Muay Thai development.
- Borehamwood, Hertfordshire – Modern training facility with state-of-the-art equipment.
Both gyms offer a welcoming, professional environment where anyone can learn Muay Thai, regardless of experience level.
Founders & Trainers
The Knowlesy Academy was founded by Christian Knowles, a decorated Muay Thai fighter and coach with over 20 years of experience. Alongside him are a team of elite trainers, including:
- Lyndon Knowles – 3x WBC Muay Thai World Champion and active professional fighter.
- Anthony Kannike, Katie Knowles, Tom Watson, Tilly Hewitt – Each coach brings their own expertise, ensuring complete training coverage from fundamentals to advanced fight preparation.
This coaching team has helped shape some of the best Muay Thai athletes in the UK and worldwide.
Top Fighters
The Knowlesy Academy has produced and trained some of the biggest names in modern Muay Thai:
- Liam Nolan – Former WBC Muay Thai World Middleweight Champion and current ONE Championship competitor.
- Jonathan Haggerty (trained by Chris Knowles) – ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion, known globally for his technical mastery.
- Lyndon Knowles – A powerhouse heavyweight fighter, champion, and mentor for the next generation.
The academy continues to be a breeding ground for champions on both amateur and professional circuits.
Fighter Profile: Lyndon “Knowlesy” Knowles
One of the standout names at The Knowlesy Academy is Lyndon Knowles, a highly respected fighter and coach.
- Background: Began training at 17 after a background in competitive swimming.
- Titles: Three-time WBC Muay Thai World Champion.
- Recent Highlights: Competed at ONE Championship, including a Heavyweight Muay Thai World Title fight against Roman Kryklia.
- Style: Known for explosive power, resilience, and technical precision.
- Coaching Role: Brings championship-level insight to every training session, motivating students to reach their peak potential.
Lyndon embodies the academy’s values of discipline, perseverance, and excellence.
Reviews & Reputation
The Knowlesy Academy has earned a stellar reputation both locally and internationally:
Praised for:
- Expert coaching with personalized guidance
- Clean, modern facilities
- Friendly, community-driven environment
- World-class fighters and mentors
Media outlets call it the UK’s No.1 Muay Thai and K1 Gym, and the gym has been featured for its ability to transform both physical and mental wellbeing.
Why Join The Knowlesy Academy?
- Train with world champions and elite coaches
- Experience a welcoming, family-like community
- Gain fitness, discipline, and self-confidence
- Learn in a professional fight environment recognized worldwide
Whether you’re starting Muay Thai for fitness, self-defense, or aspiring to fight at the highest levels, The Knowlesy Academy is the place where champions are made.
