EL CAJON — Damien Ezra Gutierrez is a national Muay Thai champion. Wrapping his hands and practicing for hours at Pure Heart Muay Thai is his favorite part of the day.

He told KGTV in San Diego he will never forget the moment he first stepped on the mat. “I was like, ‘Oh it’s my first fight. I might lose.’ I was like, ‘OK’ and then I tried my best. I did my boxing. I kicked a lot and I won.”

Since then, he has overcome his shyness. According to his coach, James Gregory, he’s competed in more than 30 competitions and won most of them.

“He is a national champion in the United States. It’s becoming difficult to find competition for him now in this country,” said Gregory, his coach at Pure Heart Muay Thai.

As Gutierrez continues to dominate in the U.S., he has set his sights on the international stage. “To carry that flag overseas and represent your country and the sport that you love is a tremendous honor and something that we’re working very hard to prepare for,” Gregory told KGTV.

Gutierrez has been selected by the World Boxing Council Muay Thai United States to compete in Verona, Italy. The team has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise $7,700 to support his trip.

“It’s truly a once in a lifetime experience,” Gregory said.

Last year, the U.S. won the competition in Thailand. “His dedication and the attitude that he approaches his training with, I believe, is what sets him apart as a competitor,” he said.