Certifications
Coach Daniel “La Crema” Alfonso Contreras is a decorated former amateur boxer with over 30 fights and only 3 losses. His boxing journey began at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he balanced his passion for the sport with his studies in Communications. Today, Danielcontinues to inspire and teach, channeling his profound love for combat sports into Muay Thai training.
Daniel joined the collegiate boxing team at UMD, sanctioned by the NCBA and USA Boxing. His discipline and dedication quickly paid off, as he became an All-American in his first year and secured second place in the NCBA National Tournament in his second year. His bout against Air Force boxing veteran Dan Star ended in a controversial split decision loss, sparking debates among spectators who believed Daniel had won.
Daniel‘s talents took him across the Atlantic to represent the United States in a collegiate boxing tournament against England. This experience, which he regards as one of the best trips of his life, saw him sparring with pros and donning Team USA gear. It was here that he honed his signature left hook to the body, inspired by British boxing legend Ricky Hatton. Despite a broken nose sustained in sparring, Daniel fought valiantly in Portsmouth, though he lost by split decision.
Coach Daniel firmly believes that learning is a lifelong journey, and teaching is integral to this process. He has embraced Muay Thai, finding it to be a humbling and enriching experience. His commitment to both learning and teaching ensures that his students receive top-notch training and inspiration.
Daniel‘s background in boxing complements his Muay Thai training, providing a unique blend of skills and techniques that benefit his students. His favorite punch, the left hook to the body, remains a testament to his boxing roots.
Outside the gym, Daniel‘s charisma and talent have led him to various roles on TV sets, filming commercials and crime scene reenactments. He has appeared as a Secret Service agent on Netflix’s “House of Cards” and portrayed Adriano Batgnato, a drug dealer and underground street fighter, on the show “Copycat Killers” (2019). This role, in particular, allowed him to showcase his fighting skills in a dramatic context.
For those seeking top-tier Muay Thai training, Daniel‘s wealth of experience and commitment to teaching make him an invaluable asset at our gym. His journey from the boxing ring to the television screen is a testament to his versatility and dedication. Whether in the gym or on set, Daniel continues to inspire and lead, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning and relentless pursuit of excellence.