Justin Burns Ready to Face Sammy Mongonia at Coalition 2

Justin Burns is returning to the ring after a long layoff, and he’s doing it in Houston, Texas. The 36-year-old owner of Every Muay Thai in Atlanta will step in as the co-main event at Coalition 2, facing off with local veteran Sammy Mongonia on September 19 at the Houston Marriott South.

“It’s funny—I haven’t fought in three years, and the last time before that it was seven years,” Burns said. “Sammy’s going to be the bull, and we’ll see if I can be the matador.”

Burns admits that at this stage, he’s already achieved much of what he set out to do. He runs a successful Muay Thai gym, travels internationally with his wife—who is also an active fighter—and has built a strong team of students in the Southeast. But when the opportunity came to fight Mongonia, a longtime friend and fellow gym owner, he didn’t hesitate.

“I’ve already made it,” Burns said. “I have a great wife, a great team, and a great life. For this fight, I just want to perform the way I’ve always wanted to perform. Win, lose, or draw, the success is just being able to go out there and bring the best version of myself.”

This fight will also be personal. Burns’ father lives in Houston and will be in attendance—marking the first time any of his family members have seen him compete. His wife will also be there watching live for the first time. “Just with them being there, that’s enough for me,” Burns said.

Though both fighters are nearing the end of their careers, Burns expects the matchup to deliver fireworks. “I think it’s going to be fight of the night,” he said. “We both want to put on a great performance, and it’s going to be emotional for both of us knowing it’s our last fight.”

Coalition 2 is shaping up to be one of the biggest Muay Thai cards Houston has seen, featuring seven professional bouts and a mix of local and traveling talent. Burns is excited to share the spotlight with fighters like Joe Stripling, Jonathan Harris, and others who will help make the night memorable.

“Peace, love, and blessings to everybody,” Burns said. “If you’re going to do martial arts, make sure you do it every day. Don’t be lazy, and always work to better yourself and the people around you.”