Although not related by blood, Regian Eersel considers Paul and Vincent Pengel as his family.
The coaches from Sityodtong Amsterdam have played a significant role in Eersel’s journey from adolescence to adulthood. They continue to support him as he gears up for his upcoming defense of the ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Title on Friday, April 5.
When “The Immortal” enters the ring at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, he will have been under the guidance of the Pengel brothers for more than half of his life.
At the age of 15, Eersel walked into their gym with boundless enthusiasm. Now, at 31, he stands as a dual-sport ONE World Champion, showcasing unparalleled dominance in the world’s premier martial arts organization.
Describing the profound impact of the Pengel brothers on his career, the Surinamese athlete expressed:
“They are like my second family. They’re akin to fathers to me. I now have three fathers. Our bond is strong. We share almost everything, and their intentions are pure. I trust them with my life. That’s the depth of our relationship.”
Trust plays a pivotal role in a sport where every bout demands a physical commitment. For Eersel, establishing this trust was a gradual process, spanning nearly a decade. Yet, it has forged an unbreakable connection that seamlessly translates from the gym to the ring.
Attributing much of his success to this bond, Eersel emphasized the importance of unwavering trust in his coaches, asserting that such trust eradicates hesitations during fights, allowing him to perform at his peak.
Reflecting on his enduring relationship with his coaches, Eersel’s connection with Paul and Vincent Pengel extends beyond combat into personal realms. They have been constant pillars in his evolution from a spirited youngster to a multifaceted individual excelling as a World Champion, father, husband, and role model.
In addition to honing his skills in the ring, the Pengel brothers have provided invaluable guidance in navigating life beyond competitive fighting. Their advice underscores the transient nature of a fighter’s career and stresses the importance of preparing for a post-competition future.
Highlighting the brothers’ counsel, Eersel shared:
“They remind me that kickboxing is transient, emphasizing the need for financial stability beyond my fighting career. They stress the importance of having alternative plans, recognizing that one’s physical capabilities are finite and unpredictable circumstances may arise.”
The holistic support and wisdom offered by Paul and Vincent Pengel underscore their genuine care for Eersel’s well-being and long-term prosperity, transcending his current stature as their star athlete at the Amsterdam gym.