Alain Ngalani’s Secrets To Staying Forever Young

Alain “The Panther” Ngalani (25-8-1) is renowned as an athlete of impeccably high character.

The Hong Kong-based hulk cuts an imposing figure — not just with his physique, but also with the explosiveness and dexterity that works effortlessly alongside it.

When the heavyweight knockout artist returns to action at ONE: KINGDOM OF HEROES in Bangkok, Thailand, on 6 October, he will officially make 2018 his busiest calendar year since joining the world’s largest martial arts organization.

At 43 years of age, Ngalani is one of the elder statesmen on the promotion’s roster. But to the kickboxing colossus, the number itself is arbitrary. “The Panther” still feels like he is in his prime, and he credits that to his lifestyle.

“I don’t even remember I’m 43 until someone asks me,” he jokes ahead of his third bout of 2018. “Being more active makes me feel much younger.”

In July, Renzo Gracie returned to the cage at ONE: REIGN OF KINGS at the ripe age of 51, and, despite an eight-year layoff from competition, he captured a second-round submission victory.

Ngalani was impressed by the Brazilian legend. Also, he identified with Gracie’s post-bout victory interview with Mitch Chilson, and he wants to reiterate the jiu-jitsu icon’s message.

“Renzo said it better than me,” the Hong Kong resident states. “He said, ‘If you think that you are old, then you are old.’ It’s all in the mindset, and I’m feeling really good!”

The desire to maintain such a healthy body and mind stems from his lifelong love for martial arts. Now, “The Panther” is passing down that message, all while maintaining his own competitive edge.

Ngalani is a role model for many of the young students at his gym, Impakt Academy of Mixed Martial Arts, and they try their best to keep up with his blistering pace.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than working with young people, seeing their enthusiasm, and seeing them inspired by what you do,” he explains.

“I want my students to be better than me, but it also challenges me to wake up early in the morning to be one step ahead and on top of my game.”

This year, Ngalani has certainly remained active.

He has competed in both mixed martial arts and kickboxing bouts, and will return to ONE Super Series this coming weekend for a striking encounter against Australia’s Andre “The Giant” Meunier.

Prior to his promotional debut in September 2013, “The Panther” was a four-time Muay Thai & Kickboxing Heavyweight World Champion, and has never faltered in pursuing more World Title glory.

Just like when he first started his career, Ngalani has grand ambitions, and he believes having goals is the other key to staying motivated and young at heart.

“I always set challenges,” he offers.

“I’m a World Champion in kickboxing and Muay Thai, and I decided that I will not stop until I win the World Title in mixed martial arts, and that’s what I’m going to do.

“ONE Super Series came along, and I decided I want to top my kickboxing record and add another World Title there. I need a title in ONE Championship, and I will not stop until I get there.”

Ngalani is popular, exciting, and in demand. The fans are eager to see him compete, and he still has an unyielding desire to challenge himself against the world’s best.

That’s why, even at 43, he remains motivated, which helps him in his winning battle against life’s toughest adversary — time.