Before entering the world of MMA, James distinguished himself as a Taekwondo standout, earning a silver medal at the 2007 Pan American Games, being named USA Taekwondo Male Athlete of the Year, and capturing two USA Taekwondo National Championships — accomplishments that reflect his elite kicking skill and disciplined training at the highest levels of the sport.
James transitioned into mixed martial arts with a professional record of 9 wins and 5 losses, competing in respected organisations including the Resurrection Fighting Alliance (RFA) and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions. In the cage, he showcased a diverse arsenal featuring knockout power, submissions and a technical striking approach forged from his Taekwondo and Muay Thai foundations.
From MMA Competitor to Elite Coach & Movement Specialist
After retiring from active MMA competition, Moontasri shifted his focus to coaching, movement education and performance work, becoming a highly sought-after instructor and martial arts consultant.
His expertise in striking, athletic development and body mechanics has led him into roles as a martial arts coach, and he has also built a successful career as a Hollywood stunt coordinator and performer, working on major film projects while sustaining his influence in the fight community.
James’s coaching style draws on his deep understanding of full-contact Taekwondo fundamentals, his MMA experience, and a blend of disciplines that helps fighters improve speed, power, flexibility and striking versatility. Whether working with competitive athletes or film stunt performers, his methods focus on efficiency of movement, range mastery and fight-ready mechanics.
Instructional Content on Warrior Collective
James brings his elite kicking mechanics and striking concepts to Warrior Collective through his first full-length instructional volume:
📘 How to Kick Higher and Faster – Full Contact Taekwondo with James Moontasri
In this comprehensive training volume, Moontasri breaks down his unique approach to kicking performance and striking excellence — a blend of high-impact Taekwondo technique and combat-applicable striking systems.
The instructional covers:
Kick Prep 101 & Warm-Up Systems — Dynamic mobility and flexibility foundations to support high-level kicking.
Lead Leg Entries & Fast Kick Mechanics — Step-by-step drills to develop reliable, explosive leads.
Double & Triple Kick Chains — Linking kicks in fluid combinations for competitive striking.
Twisting Kicks & Cut Back Kick Systems — Technical breakdowns of advanced, fight-effective strikes.
Clinch-to-Kick Transitions — Techniques that bridge close-range control with striking output.
Blending Styles for MMA & Kickboxing — Integrating Taekwondo into other striking arts.
Whether you’re looking to maximize your kicking range, boost dynamic striking power, or add high-level Taekwondo tools to your combat skillset, this volume offers practical, drill-based instruction you can apply immediately.
