OWNER, HEAD INSTRUCTOR

BONAFIDE WARHAWK

Bonafide Warhawk turned personal adversity into purpose after a violent incident in high school left him legally blind. Martial arts became his outlet, allowing him to fight without sight and teach others to overcome their own limitations. With over 30 years of experience, he founded HardKnox Astoria. His mission is rooted in resilience, discipline, and transformation.

FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

NICOLE RAMIREZ

Coach Nikki began her fitness journey by launching her own training business, driven by a passion for helping others. She holds certifications from NASM and Bio Force and brings high energy to every class. Known for her challenging yet fun workouts, Nikki focuses on strength, conditioning, and building confidence in clients of all levels.

FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

GABBY

GOMEZ

Coach Gabby is a certified 200-hour Yoga instructor with a background in strength training, functional fitness, and track. Her journey began at her university’s rec center, where she discovered her passion for guiding others. She’s dedicated to making fitness enjoyable and sustainable, tailoring her classes to meet individual goals, emphasizing strength, mobility, and wellness.

BOXING INSTRUCTOR

SUKHMANI BHANOT

Coach Su discovered boxing at 14 and never looked back. What began as a part-time job turned into a life-changing path, giving her confidence, purpose, and resilience. Today, she trains under Bonafide Warhawk while also leading youth boxing classes, helping others tap into the transformative power of the sport.

BOXING INSTRUCTOR

JESUS

LA TORRE

Jesus brings over 17 years of boxing experience and precision to every session. He began coaching in 2023 after years of personal dedication to the sport, earning his license with the goal of sharing the knowledge and mindset that define real boxing. He works with all levels through group classes and private sessions, focusing on skill, confidence, and conditioning.

MUAY THAI INSTRUCTOR

IAN

BARNETT

Coach Ian began training in Muay Thai in 2017 at Renzo Gracie Academy in NYC. His technique and approach are grounded in precision, discipline, and real-world self-defense. Ian now shares his passion at HardKnox Astoria, helping students of all levels build skill and confidence through thoughtful, impactful instruction.

SPIN CYCLE INSTRUCTOR

TONI

VITALE

With 20+ years in the fitness industry, Coach Toni has experience leading high-intensity classes like HIIT, Bootcamp, and Circuit Training. Her spin cycle workouts combine functional strength, cardio, and motivation to help clients push limits and see results, all while having fun. Toni’s approach is simple: stay consistent, train hard, and make fitness a lifestyle.

YOUTH FITNESS ASSISTANT

MARK

SZIRTES

Coach Mark brings passion, relatability, and fresh energy to his role. A local high school student from Astoria, Mark combines his love for sports—especially basketball and soccer—with a desire to mentor kids. With a background in Taekwondo and a natural rapport with youth, Mark helps kids build confidence, discipline, and athletic skill.

HEAD CONCIERGE

AMAN

(A-TRAIN)

With 20+ years in high-end hospitality, Aman (A.K.A A-Train) brings a premium service experience to HardKnox Astoria. A longtime student of Bonafide Warhawk, he also assists with youth fitness. Outside the studio, A-Train designs fashion through his brand House of BRKT. His passion for people, creativity, and mentorship defines his role.