More Than a Fighter: Impa Kasanganay’s Inspirational Journey from College Fitness Trainer to Miami Gym Owner and Mentoring Aspiring Champions.

July 24th, 2024

In a recent interview, Impa Kasanganay opened up about the journey that led to the opening of his new gym, his passion for health and fitness, and his upcoming rematch against Joshua Silveira. Kasanganay’s story is one of perseverance, faith, and a deep-seated commitment to helping others.

Kasanganay’s interest in fitness and helping others started early. “Even before fighting, I was always passionate about people’s health,” he shared. His college years were marked by his dedication to offering free workouts to fellow students, demonstrating a heart for service that would later define his career. This passion naturally evolved as he transitioned into fighting, refining not just his skills but also his approach to training others. “When I started fighting, I knew I needed to refine myself. That’s where the idea of a refinery came into play – refining humans both physically and mentally.”

The opening of his Miami gym, Impa’s Refinery, is indeed a dream come true for Kasanganay. “Yes, it’s a blessing. I’m enjoying it every single day,” he expressed with gratitude.

Looking ahead to his rematch against Joshua Silveira, Kasanganay acknowledges the growth and evolution of his opponent. “Joshua has grown as a fighter. He’s maturing, and his skills have developed significantly in his grappling, boxing and kickboxing.” However, Kasanganay remains focused on his goal: “My focus is still unchanged, to claim victory, get that finish, and move forward. It’s exciting because I see how he’s improved, and that just motivates me even more.”

2024 PFL 5: Salt Lake City at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, Friday, June 21, 2024. (Cooper Neill / PFL MMA)

Training remains a critical aspect of Kasanganay’s life. He continues to train at Kill Cliff and DK Fitness, where he finds invaluable support and guidance. “I still train at Kill Cliff, and DK Fitness has been instrumental in shaping me. My trainers, including Dieter Navarro, Henri Hooft, Gilbert Burns, Robbie Lawler, and many others, push me every single day,” he said.

With the stakes of the rematch, including a potential championship and a significant monetary prize, one might assume the pressure would be immense. Yet, Kasanganay views it differently. “The stakes don’t matter to me. The standard I hold myself to is much higher than any stakes. My goal is to be the best – past, present, and future. That’s what drives me every single second of the day.”

Fighting in his backyard doesn’t alter his approach. “It doesn’t matter if I’m fighting in Alaska or on Mars. Every fight is a title fight to me. When I step into that cage, it’s my home turf,” he explained, emphasizing his unwavering focus and mental strength. “I think people get so caught up in the history and the rivalry when, at the end of the day, we both just have a job to do.”

As a mentor to aspiring fighters, Kasanganay’s advice is rooted in faith and perseverance. “Focus on Jesus, focus on faith. Don’t let fighting validate you. Know that you’re loved, no matter where you come from or who you are. I tell the kids in my gym to be grateful, to strive to be better than me, and to focus on their goals,” he shared.

Kasanganay’s gym is more than a place to train; it’s a haven for personal growth and development. “I want the kids to start businesses, get their education, and avoid negative paths. My gym is based on two quotes: Proverbs 14:23 and a reminder to always demand the best of yourself,” he said. His vision for the gym is clear – to create a legacy of champions who are successful both inside and outside the cage.

Reflecting on his journey, Kasanganay described it with one word: joy. “It wasn’t always happy, but it was always full of joy. Even in the toughest times, I knew the best was yet to come. Bringing joy with me every day has been crucial,” he explained. This perspective has carried him through challenges and triumphs alike.

Kasanganay’s commitment to his faith, his dedication to helping others, and his relentless pursuit of excellence make him a formidable fighter and an inspiring mentor. As he prepares for his upcoming fight and continues to build his gym, he remains focused on his mission. “I live on vacation. I get to do what I love every day. That’s a blessing,” he said with a smile.

2024 PFL 5: Salt Lake City Faceoff portrait with Impa Kasanganay at the Mount Olympus in Salt Lake City, Utah, Monday, June 17, 2024. (Matt Ferris / PFL MMA)

Kasanganay’s Grand Opening of the gym is just around the corner and with his positive outlook and unwavering determination, there’s no doubt that Kasanganay’s journey will continue to inspire and uplift those around him.

Kasanganay vs Silveira takes place on August 16th at the Hard Rock Live in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood.