As a young individual, he encountered numerous challenges while navigating the streets of England. Presently, his primary focus is on guiding the next generation to avoid repeating the same missteps.
The 31-year-old hailing from Birkenhead, set to compete in a flyweight Muay Thai bout in U.S. primetime on Friday, April 5, is dedicated to managing his Thaifist gym. Initially, he embarked on this journey by imparting knowledge alongside his partner, Rebekah.
Transitioning from a previous life entangled in criminal activities, the gym served as a pivotal turning point for Smith, propelling him onto the global platform of ONE Championship. Having experienced firsthand the transformative power of martial arts in his own life, he firmly believes in its potential to effect positive changes in others.
Ranked as the #2 contender in the flyweight Muay Thai category, he shared insights before his upcoming match at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Reflecting on the prevailing circumstances in his locality, characterized by frequent incidents of violence such as shootings and stabbings, he emphasized the significance of his role in guiding the youth away from such destructive paths.
“It’s crucial given the current situation in my community. Incidents of violence are alarmingly common. If I can steer even a few youngsters in the right direction, that’s all I aspire to achieve,” he expressed.
Drawing from his personal journey, Smith connects with adolescents aged 14 to 18 at his gym who have traversed similar troubled paths. His life experiences enable him to caution them against veering off course, advocating for a more positive trajectory.
His upbringing devoid of affluence, marked by self-experience rather than privilege, lends credibility to his mentorship. By virtue of his presence and influence in the community, he has successfully guided numerous youths towards constructive pursuits, rescuing them from the perils of street life.
While financial obligations are a reality, Smith’s motivation transcends monetary gains. His fulfillment stems from the positive impact he can make on the vulnerable youth within an area plagued by deprivation and criminal activities.
In instances where individuals lack the means to extricate themselves from street life, Smith extends a helping hand, offering support and instilling hope for a brighter future.
“We have several youngsters at our gym who are exempt from fees due to their challenging home circumstances. Their parents may be unemployed or struggling with substance abuse. It is essential to provide this assistance so that these kids have a shot at a better life,” he explained.
Currently seeking funding from various organizations, Smith aims to expand the scope of their services, enabling more underprivileged youths to access opportunities for personal growth and development free of charge.
Jacob Smith’s Aspirations for His Students to Shine in ONE Championship
While the success of a single individual would be gratifying, Jacob Smith’s gym now teems with enthusiastic students honing their skills and fitness levels.
Witnessing the progress and ambitions of his young protégés brings Smith immense pride and satisfaction.
“We have a diverse group of students, ranging from ages 4 to 14, with a significant number actively pursuing competitive fighting. It’s truly rewarding to witness their growth and development on a daily basis,” he shared.
The adage “You can’t be what you can’t see” resonates strongly in Smith’s mentorship approach, offering his students a positive role model to emulate. He exemplifies that achievements and admiration can stem from dedication, discipline, and hard work rather than illicit activities.
As a prominent figure in ONE Championship’s competitive flyweight Muay Thai division, Smith stands as a testament to the rewards reaped through perseverance and commitment. His students, inspired by his success, aspire to follow in his footsteps.
“I have youngsters in the gym boldly declaring, ‘I’ll be in ONE Championship by 2028!’ Witnessing their determination is truly inspiring. I am fully committed to supporting their aspirations, ensuring that when I retire, I will continue guiding them towards their dreams,” he affirmed.