RICH HERNANDEZ – About Hernandez Kickboxing, Murrieta
Coach Rich is the founder and head coach of Hernandez Kickboxing Fitness, bringing a diverse and well-rounded martial arts background to the program. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, he previously instructed hand-to-hand combat during his service. His early athletic foundation includes Golden Gloves boxing and competitive wrestling.
Following his military career, Coach Rich traveled to Thailand, where he trained in traditional Muay Thai, further expanding his striking expertise. He is also a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under the Checkmat lineage: Leo Vieira → Ricardo Feliciano. With years of experience across multiple disciplines, Coach Rich is dedicated to developing athletes of all levels through disciplined, high-quality training.
"The best coach isn't the one who tells you how it's the one who's been there, done it, and pulls you up to that same level.""
— RICH,WHY WE
EXIST
We exist to forge stronger humans. Not just physically but mentally, emotionally, and as community members. Martial arts is our method. Transformation is our mission.
DOMINATE.
TRANSFORM.
From Murrieta to the Inland Empire, we are building the next generation of fighters, fitness enthusiasts, and champions one class at a time.
Discipline
Consistency in training builds champions in life. We hold every member to a higher standard.
Community
This gym is a second home. We lift each other up on the mats and off them.
Excellence
World-class coaching at every level. We never lower our standards we raise yours.
Respect
Every person through our doors deserves dignity. We train hard and treat each other right.
Toughness
Mental and physical resilience built through training. Growth lives outside the comfort zone.
Inclusion
Ages 5+. All levels. All backgrounds. No one is left behind at Hernandez Kickboxing.
THE ROAD TO
MURRIETA
From championship mats to community cornerstone our journey has been built on competition, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the fighters and families of the Inland Empire.
Championship Competition Begins
Stephanie Hernandez begins her competitive martial arts career, training under elite coaches and developing the championship-level skills that would define her legacy and coaching philosophy.
Randy Couture Connection
Rich aligns with the legendary the powerhouse MMA gym co-founded by UFC Hall of Famer Randy Couture. This period defines his coaching methodology: technical, disciplined, and results-driven.
Hernandez Kickboxing Opens in Murrieta
With a vision to bring elite martial arts training to the Murrieta valley, Hernandez Kickboxing & Fitness Centre opens its doors at 24837 Jefferson Ave, Murrieta, CA serving beginners, fighters, and families from day one.
Expanding Programs & Community
Programs expand to include Kids & Youth MMA, full fitness classes, BJJ, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Boxing and more. Making Hernandez Kickboxing a true family destination.
Murrieta's #1 Martial Arts & Fitness Centre
5-star rated across Murrieta, and the Inland Empire. Still growing, still competing, still the standard for martial arts excellence in Southern California.
WORLD-CLASS
COACHES
Every instructor at Hernandez Kickboxing has competed, trained, and bled in their discipline. You're not learning from theory you're learning from fighters.
Stephanie Hernandez
Coach Steph serves as the Assistant Coach at Hernandez Kickboxing Fitness, specializing in both kickboxing and grappling. She is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt under Ricardo Feliciano at Checkmat Murrieta and is an active competitor in IBJJF tournaments.
Coach Murjoni
Coach Murjoni is the Strength and Conditioning Coach at Hernandez Kickboxing Fitness, focusing on developing athletic performance, coordination, and overall fitness. With experience working with youth athletes, he emphasizes proper footwork, conditioning drills, and calisthenics to build a strong foundation for all levels.
OUR TRACK
RECORD
Top-rated gym in the Murrieta Valley
From MMA to Yoga the most complete gym in Murrieta
Youth programs built for every stage of development
MORE THAN
A GYM. A
SECOND HOME.
What separates Hernandez Kickboxing from every other gym in the Inland Empire isn't just the coaching or the facility it's the culture. Walk in as a stranger. Leave as family.
Family Environment
Parents, kids, beginners, and pros train together under one roof. Everyone belongs here no exceptions.
Community First
We're rooted in Murrieta. We show up for our members, our neighbors, and the Murrieta Valley.
Progress for Everyone
Whether you want to lose 20 lbs or win a title, your goals are taken seriously by every coach on our staff.
No Ego. Just Work.
Leave the attitude at the door. We train hard, support each other, and earn our respect on the mat.
EVERYONE IS
WELCOME HERE
Beginners
Never thrown a punch? Perfect. Our coaches specialize in meeting you exactly where you are and building you up with patience, structure, and real results. Zero experience required.
Serious Fighters
Training for competition? We've been there. Our coaching staff has competed at the highest levels. We build fight camps, sharpen skills, and prepare you to dominate on fight night.
Self-Defense Seekers
Real-world self-defense built on proven martial arts. Our MMA, BJJ, and Muay Thai programs give you practical skills that actually work under pressure.
Kids & Youth
Ages 5–17 build discipline, confidence, fitness, and character. Our youth MMA instructors are specialists in kids development through martial arts.
