The Origin

I prayed for a name for the business in the beginning of 2023. Came across the word “phylasso” – which holds deep significance in both its biblical roots and the values it embodies. It means “to guard or keep a person (or thing) that he may remain safe“. We aim to provide and foster an environment of both safety and peace where ALL ARE WELCOME.

Martial arts schools tend to thrive in suburban neighborhoods, but there are cities who don’t have the luxury of accessing martial arts schools. I’m from Los Angeles, where the nearest gym is 5 miles away. After moving to different states, I learned that the martial arts hub is mainly centralized to bigger cities, and especially, Southern California. In other states, clients are either over-charged or must commute far to enjoy quality martial arts. I want to change that by building a diverse community.

At Phylasso Kickboxing, we embrace several core values that comprise our “Phylasso-phy”. Instead of merely making copycat martial artists or only producing fighters and sport competitors, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to develop their own martial arts “phylasso-phies” while fostering their personal growth and teaching self-defense skills. Our goal is to create a supportive community where everyone can thrive, both physically and spiritually. Phylasso Kickboxing is not just martial arts—it’s a place where faith, love, peace, and martial arts converge.

Head instructor and Owner

In case you were wondering, I’m Omar, Gus*, Aviles – the head Instructor and owner of Phylasso Kickboxing. I was born and raised in Southern California, where I spent my formative years navigating the vibrant neighborhoods of Compton, South Gate, East LA, and Downey, to name a few. I started at the young age of 3 years old at Sang Yi Academy, a Tae Kwon Do gym where my dad also trained. I grew up surrounded by martial arts, and assisted my dad with teaching as I ascended the ranks.

Although I took my training for granted, martial arts became my guiding light during a time when, like many kids from broken homes, I felt lost. I discovered my passion for martial arts after witnessing a friend’s first MMA fight in Las Vegas. Since then, I have followed the path of martial arts with unwavering dedication.

After earning my 2nd degree black belt, I took on more responsibility at my dad’s gym and became a formal instructor and marketing advisor for nearly a decade. This experience allowed me to develop an understanding of hard work and the transformative power of martial arts.

Training under the tutelage of former UFC fighter, Josh Barnett in the UWFxUSA fight team, I gleaned from many different martial artists. Ultimately, I discovered the value of exploring multiple styles, understanding that life often throws unexpected challenges our way.

My martial arts journey took me down a challenging path, and at one point, I made the choice to experience homelessness in California. It was not until experiencing a near-death experience that I realized I lacked a true purpose behind my martial arts pursuit. It was through divine intervention that I encountered God, despite my initial resistance. His love saved me, and He instructed me to leave behind the path I was on because He had something greater in store for me.

Almost five years later, I began to scratch the surface of that calling. I recognize that this business belongs to Him—I am merely the messenger. While I teach martial arts, I understand that our ultimate accountability lies in the life we lead and the choices we make. Martial arts alone cannot save us. My desire is to be an instructor, sharing my knowledge, praying for all who cross my path, and allowing God to work through me.