At just 12 years old, Ōpōtiki kickboxer Khyla Borell has already established herself as one of Scorpion Claw Fight Club’s most dedicated and resilient young athletes.

Coach Tairongo Hudson recently recognised Khyla with “Kuro” – the highest honour awarded to a junior student at the club – in recognition of her commitment, perseverance and the values she brings both inside and outside the ring.

The accolade adds to an impressive list of achievements, with Khyla also having been named the club’s Fighter of the Year, Student of the Year and Student of the Term on multiple occasions.

For Hudson, however, it is Khyla’s character rather than her trophy cabinet that makes her stand out.

“Man, this girl right here, without a doubt, is the beating heart of SCFC and she embodies everything the club stands for,” he said.

“She fights for her whānau, her club and her community. Never say die attitude. Never backs down from a fight – literally – and she represents Ōpōtiki and Tauranga Moana to the fullest.”

Khyla began competing at the age of 10 and has already amassed eight bouts across kickboxing and boxing.

Despite often facing older and more experienced opponents, Hudson said every contest had helped shape her into the fighter she is becoming.

“From the age of 10 years old till now, 12 years old, she has been able to stack up eight fights in the ring. Every fight she has had has not been in her favour, but those fights have given her the experience.”

Hudson said Khyla had endured knockdowns, taken standing eight counts and experienced disappointment, but had never allowed setbacks to define her.

“In her last three performances I’ve seen her experience start to show. She understands the ring now; she’s not scared of anyone or anything. She can fight through adversity, and she’s shown that time and time again.”

Although her win-loss record may not immediately catch the eye, Hudson believes it doesn’t tell the full story.

“Her record may not look good on paper, but if you have seen her fight, then see the people she has fought against and their ages and records, you would be blown away.”

“Even though she has taken the L in most of her early career, she has tasted victory once in the ring and I know she yearns for the feeling again. With a match-up for her in a big arena in motion now, I guarantee she has got one goal in mind – victory.”

Hudson said amateur competition was about development rather than results.

“I know we all get caught up in the wins and losses, but this is the amateurs. This is where we are supposed to lose.

“Once you turn professional, that is where the wins and losses start to count; that’s where promoters and sanctioning bodies start to look at your records because that’s where it matters. Until then, we’ll just keep racking up the experience.”

Khyla said she became involved in kickboxing after being encouraged by her parents, and quickly discovered a passion for the sport.

“My parents initially got me into it as a good way to learn self-defence and I really enjoyed it,” she said.

“I would encourage people to give it a go and see how they feel. It is also really great for staying fit.”

Despite competing in front of crowds and facing more experienced opponents, Khyla said she didn’t get nervous before stepping into the ring.

Looking ahead to her next challenge, she is focused on continuing to improve.

“I am looking forward to my next competition and will train hard for it.”

Khyla is now preparing for her next challenge when she steps into the cage at Ironfist 21 at Lake Karāpiro on August 22. Hudson believes her determination and willingness to continually test herself against quality opposition will continue to serve her well as her combat sports journey unfolds.