Inspired by Bruce Lee, Tony knew exactly who he was and what he wanted to be. He would begin down the road of a lifetime of dedication to martial arts and began his training at the age of 10 at the PABA (Progressive Amateur Boxing Association) in Houston with Reverend Ray Martin, the "Reverend." Years later, he trained under Hawaiian Kempo pioneer and instructor, Gary Lee. He also moved to San Antonio for a short time where he trained in Tae Kwon Do with World Kickboxing Champion, Steve Ashcraft and received his black belt in that art.

At age 19, Tony moved to Los Angeles with nothing else in mind but to train, and train great. He trained with Bruce Lee's first students, Dan Inosanto and Richard Bustillo in the art form of Jeet Kune Do at the IMB academy. It was at this academy that Tony was introduced to Thai legend and seven-time Muay Thai World Champion, Nam Pha "Lot" Sarhardechio. Under Lot's guidance, and paired with Tony's undeniable drive, Tony was able to participate in some of the first Muay Thai matches ever held on U.S. soil.

Years later, after Richard Bustillo was asked to referee a challenge match between Rorion Gracie and a famous world champion kickboxer, Tony was introduced to Rorian, Rickson and Royce Gracie. Tony began training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu during the infamous "garage days." Tony would often drive the Gracie brothers in his VW van to El Camino college where they introduced Tony to wrestling. In turn, Tony introduced and encouraged all three brothers to train in American wrestling. Tony received his BJJ Black Belt from Royce Gracie, making him among the pioneers of Mixed Martial Arts in the U.S. and of only a handful of Americans who had such a valuable and impressive opportunity.

A few years later, the world was introduced to Gracie family and the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through Rorion's creation of the UFC. Royce Gracie won 4 consecutive tournaments, as the UFC was created with a tournament format to showcase the effectiveness of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Tony has trained high-level superstars such as UFC veteran Mike “Quick” Sick, former PRIDE and UFC Heavyweight Champion. Tony is also an Official Judge of the (ADCC) (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) Submission Wrestling World Championship. Tony is now a Professor after recently receiving his black belt with a red sash and two white stripes.

Highlights:
23 years Thai Boxing, began with Nam Pha "Lot" Sarhardechio
20 years Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, began with Royce and Rickson Gracie
Black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu under Royce Gracie
Only American, Official Judge of the World Submission Championships (ADCC)
Awarded & recognized as one of the best trainers in Texas
Awarded best competition team in Texas