Chaiyo Muay Thai
About
Chaiyo Muay Thai offers training in both Muay Thai and MMA disciplines under the guidance of highly experienced instructors. The coaching team is led by Grand Master Chansadeth "Cheetah" Chanthanao, a 150+ fight veteran, and includes other notable trainers such as Surachai (Jud) Chanmanee, known as Buakaw's godfather and trainer. This traditional setting provides authentic Muay Thai culture with a focus on proper technique, conditioning, and real fundamentals, suitable for everyone from complete beginners to experienced fighters.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the excellent coaching, particularly highlighting Master Cheetah, Mrs. Cheetah, and the Krus for their skill, patience, and dedication. They describe a welcoming, supportive atmosphere with no egos, where everyone works as a team and the community feels like family. The training is intense but rewarding, with great technique instruction and challenging fitness classes. Reviewers specifically mention feeling at home quickly, improving their skills, and achieving better fitness, even when starting at older ages.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Howard McCoy
2 months ago
I joined Chaiyo Muay Thai about 6 years ago.....I unfortunately started training at an older age (49 when I started), and I wish I had found this gym when I was in my 20s! This said, I am now 55, and still going strong. Master Cheetah, Mrs. Cheetah and KRUs are top notch, and really help you reach your best potential. I am in better shape than I was 30s!!!! BELIEVE IT. The atmosphere is great, no egos, we all work as a team to help each other get better. So, if you are looking for a place to train in a traditional setting, with a true family feel, come join us...we'll be waiting!
Michael Balistreri
8 months ago
Master Cheetah is awesome!!! Amazing training atmosphere and so many gems learned in just an hour and a half of training. Highly reccomend!!
Matt Bechtel
3 years ago
I always look forward to training at Chaiyo! Master Cheetah and all the instructors/staff have created an awesome environment; everyone is positive and likes to have fun while still pushing you hard and teaching proper techniques. The space and equipment are great, and the other students are friendly and helpful. I'd highly recommended giving them a try if you're interested in muay Thai - whether you're a complete beginner or have prior training, you'll be feeling at home in no time.
Octavio Martin
a year ago
I’ve been training at Chaiyo Muay Thai for a while now, and I can’t recommend it enough! The coaches are highly skilled, patient, and dedicated to helping students improve, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced fighter. The gym has a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where everyone pushes each other to get better. The training is intense but rewarding, with a great mix of technique, conditioning, and real Muay Thai fundamentals. The community here is what really sets Chaiyo apart—everyone is friendly, motivated, and respectful. If you’re looking for a place to train in Richmond, this is the spot. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or competition, you’ll find top-notch instruction and a great group of people to train with. Definitely worth checking out!
Sheena Mae Aguilar
3 years ago
As a martial art enthusiast, I was very picky finding places to train in Muay Thai. Thank goodness I found an authentic Muay Thai gym that is fruitful in its culture. I remember calling a few gyms including Chaiyo, and Master Cheetah called me back instantly. I loved his energy, and how welcoming he is. Months after, I can feel myself improving. Fitness classes are a killer! People there are very friendly. Come by, sign up, and train with us!
Contact
12260 San Pablo Ave suite b, Richmond, CA 94805, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 – 1:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 – 1:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM, 12:00 – 1:00 PM, 4:30 – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Chansadeth "Cheetah" Chanthanao
Head Coach / Grand Master
Muay Thai Grand Master, 150+ fight veteran
Three decades of experience as fighter and trainer. Fought professionally in Thailand, US, and Australia. Brought Muay Thai to the Bay Area in the 1970s.
Deffiny Thakoonsak Soungpanya (Mrs. Cheetah)
Trainer
Trained in Taekwondo for six years before joining Master Cheetah. Helps run the academy and trains alongside him.
Jacky Chanthanao
Trainer (Kru)
Kru (instructor) title, over 20 years experience
Daughter of Master Cheetah. Trained with top fighters like Buakaw and Bunkerd Faphimai. Has competed locally.
Alejandro (Alex) Hernandez
Trainer
Began training with Master Cheetah at age 14. Trained with former Lumpinee champions and Buakaw. Emphasizes technique and Thai culture.
Jesus Sosa
Trainer
Amateur title holder (2011)
Started training at 18 with Master Cheetah. Former amateur fighter who returned to help teach after assisting at another gym.
Surachai (Jud) Chanmanee
Grand Master / Trainer
Buakaw's Godfather and trainer, K1 World Champion trainer
Well-known as Buakaw's trainer who raised him to become K1 World Champion. From Champion, Thailand.