Justin Whiley

Justin Whiley began karate in 1986 at age of 19 after participating in sports all his life (primarily football). He needed a replacement for the competition, structure, and physical challenge that he missed by not being a part of organized/school sports. Whiley went on to earn his 2nd degree black belt prior to making the move to full contact kickboxing in 1995. He then opened the Cellar Kickboxing Gym in Minneapolis, MN in 2002. In 2005 Whiley left the business side of the martial arts, passing on the school to Chris Cichon, but remained a very big part of the gym by forming the Cellar Fight Team along with Chris Cichon and Jon Lewis. Under Whiley’s leadership the, Cellar Fight Team has brought home multiple World and USA titles. Justin is also an active Board member for the United States of America’s World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO USA).

With over 25 years of coaching experience, Justin Whiley brings a wealth of knowledge to The Cellar Gym. Whether you are a seasoned martial arts veteran, or have never punched or kicked, Justin will challenge you to do your best while having fun in his kickboxing classes.

Justin states, “Kickboxing has given me some amazing experiences, allowing me to travel across the country and the world, from the K-1 in Las Vegas to the WAKO World Champions as a part of Team USA in Portugal and Bosnia. Kickboxing/martial arts has become a lifelong passion.”

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