Bert Kops Jr., born in the Netherlands, began his wrestling journey at the age of six. Over the years, he amassed approximately 30 national and international titles, establishing himself as one of the country’s most accomplished wrestlers. His training included sessions with renowned figures such as Anton Geesink, Chris Dolman, Jan van de Paverd, John Bluming, and Wim Ruska, all pioneers in Dutch martial arts .SupmediVechtsport Info+3MMA UK+3MMADNA+3
Establishment of Kops Gym
In 1985, Bert Kops founded Kops Gym in Amsterdam, situated along the banks of the River Amstel. The gym quickly became a hub for various martial arts disciplines, including wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, grappling, and MMA. Known for its old-school charm, Kops Gym operates without modern amenities like electronic check-ins; instead, Bert personally greets members, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere .SupmediNap Nieuws
Coaching Philosophy and Mentorship
Bert Kops is renowned for his disciplined coaching style, emphasizing mental toughness, dedication, and perseverance. He believes that while talent is essential, it’s the discipline and commitment that differentiate champions from the rest. His approach has been instrumental in shaping numerous fighters who have achieved success on international platforms .Vechtsport Info
Training Champions
Under Bert’s guidance, Kops Gym has produced several world-class fighters. Notably, Gegard Mousasi, a former Bellator Middleweight Champion, has trained extensively at Kops Gym. Other prominent fighters include Costello van Steenis, Melvin Manhoef, and Denise Kielholtz. The gym also hosts “Team Mousasi” sparring sessions, attracting top fighters from across the Netherlands .Kops Gym+2MMADNA+2MixFight+2Kops Gym
Media Presence and Recognition
Bert Kops’s contributions to martial arts have been recognized beyond the gym. In 2018, he was featured in the docu-series “Team Kops,” which aired on Spike TV. The series provided an in-depth look into his life, coaching methods, and the operations of Kops Gym . Additionally, Bert received an award from the Albanian Kickboxing and MMA Federation for his efforts in promoting the sport in Albania .MixFight+1MMADNA+1Vechtsport Info
Community Engagement and Legacy
Beyond training elite fighters, Bert is committed to nurturing young talent. Kops Gym offers youth wrestling programs, ensuring the next generation has access to quality training. Bert’s hands-on approach and genuine care for his students have made him a respected figure in the community. His gym serves as a testament to his dedication, blending traditional values with modern training techniques .Kops+1Vrijetijd Amsterdam+1
Conclusion
Bert Kops’s journey from a young wrestler to a revered coach underscores his passion and commitment to martial arts. Through Kops Gym, he has created a legacy that continues to influence and inspire fighters worldwide. His emphasis on discipline, resilience, and community has solidified his status as a cornerstone of Dutch martial arts.
