Lester Phillips A two-time Muay Thai World Champion, certified personal trainer, and Oklahoma’s only Cenegenics-certified expert. My journey started as a young boy in Judo, where I became a state and national champion before diving into Muay Thai, Karate, and performance training. Over the years, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering recovery techniques and helping others achieve their goals. From battling back after life-changing injuries to becoming a world-class trainer, my passion lies in guiding others to move better, recover stronger, and live their best lives.
Let’s take this journey together!
Name, Title
1989
Early Life and Judo Beginnings
Lester Phillips discovered his passion for martial arts as a young boy, beginning his journey with Judo. His talent and dedication quickly set him apart, culminating in a stellar senior year in high school in 1989. During that year, Lester claimed the titles of State and National 88lbs Champion. His remarkable achievements earned him a prestigious spot in the USJA Judo Hall of Fame, cementing his place as one of the sport’s rising stars.
1993
Muay Thai
A discipline that would become his strongest asset. His skills were undeniable, and in 1993, he secured the title of UKF Muay Thai 101lbs US Champion.
1994
Martial Arts Evolution and Training
Following his success in Judo, Lester expanded his martial arts repertoire. A visit to Colorado Springs led him to train under the legendary Terry Gibson for two years until Gibson’s passing. Before his mentor’s death, Lester expressed his desire to fight professionally. Gibson directed him to renowned martial artist Dale Apollo Cook, under whom Lester trained intensively. By 1994, Lester had earned a Master’s Black Belt in Sadoki Karate.
A year later, he became the 118lbs Bantam Weight UKF World Champion, a fight that defined his resilience. Despite suffering severe injuries—including a broken humerus, scapula, collarbone, and a separated shoulder in the first round—Lester pushed through five grueling rounds, winning the bout by unanimous decision. These injuries left him paralyzed on his right side for a year, and many assumed his career was over.
1996
Recovery and Comeback
Defying expectations, Lester embarked on an intense recovery journey with the help of Gerald Mirabal, a three-time Mr. Oklahoma, and Dr. Allen Virgets, an Olympic boxing trainer. After two years of rigorous rehabilitation, Lester made a triumphant return, claiming the UKF Featherweight World Title in 1996.
2000
Hard Work Pays Off
He continued to dominate the ring, successfully defending his titles until his retirement in 2000.
2003
Advanced Training and Instruction
Lester’s commitment to martial arts extended beyond competition. He became a member of a Sayoc Training Group, led by instructor Jason Lopes and sponsored by TuHon Harley Elmore, where he honed his skills in hand-to-hand combat. Lester also began offering private training sessions, blending his martial arts expertise with practical combat techniques.
2005
Best of the Best Trainer
Lester co-founded Underground Off The Wall Core Training with Steve “Spyder Man” Summers, which further elevated his capabilities. That same year, he was honored as the Best of the Best Trainer, a testament to his impact in the martial arts and fitness communities.
2007
Phiten Representative
Lester expanded his influence by becoming the Technical Representative for Phiten across the United States, promoting innovative training technologies. Phitan was the 1st leading technical specialist in kiniseotape technique. One of the only Americans to have been certified by the Japanese in this taping.
2009
Cenegenics Certification and Current Endeavors
Dr. Sharp of Tulsa introduced Lester to Cenegenics, an elite program focusing on exercise and nutritional counseling for clients seeking optimal health. Lester traveled to the Cenegenics Corporate Center in Las Vegas, where he earned certification with outstanding reviews. As Oklahoma’s only Certified Trainer for Cenegenics, Lester now works closely with long-standing clients and Cenegenics patients, offering private sessions tailored to their individual needs.
2022 - Current
Still Pushing Forward
Lester is currently undergoing cross training with the OBN, working alongside Head Technical Instructor Bryan Gotch. His training includes advance hand-to-hand combat techniques, firearms proficiency, and tactical defense strategies, enhancing his expertise in high-level operational skills.
Your Recovery, Your Goals,
My Expertise.
Lester Phillips is committed to helping you take control of your recovery and achieve your personal goals with the guidance of his extensive experience. Whether you’re bouncing back from a sports injury, managing chronic pain, or simply dealing with a sore back, Lester provides a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs.
Through advanced techniques like deep tissue work, joint mobility training, cupping, and the Graston Technique, Lester addresses the root causes of discomfort, not just the symptoms. His goal is to help you rebuild strength, regain mobility, and feel better daily—so you can get back to doing what you love, stronger and pain-free. With Lester, you’re not just recovering—you’re elevating.