From Annapolis, Maryland, Joseph "Buzzsaw" Grobani's path to professional Muay Thai began with restaurant and construction work, a self-destructive lifestyle, and a decision at 27 to quit drinking and reclaim his life. That same year, he found Kogen Dojo and Coach Matthew Van Valkenburgh—a turning point that would lead him from the bars of Maryland to the rings of Thailand.
Starting Muay Thai in August 2021, Joseph quickly proved himself as a fighter willing to face anyone. His amateur career saw him compile a 14-4 record, capturing the WKA National Title, WBC Silver Medal, GutCheck Championship, TCB Championship, and IKF East Coast Championship. But his losses tell the real story—all came in his highest-profile fights, including battles for the Freedom Fighters National Title, the WBC International Championship in Thailand, and another WBC tournament in Italy. He's been stopped, fractured both feet, broken ribs, and torn obliques. His philosophy is clear: "I would rather put myself up against the best and risk defeat than fight easy fights just for the chance to call myself a winner."
In December 2024, Joseph made the ultimate commitment—he gave up everything in Maryland and moved to Thailand to pursue his professional career full-time. Training at Jaopahin Muay Thai in Huahin under Kru Tum, he's now 7-0 as a professional. His most memorable achievement came fighting Saiyok under Kard Chuek (rope-bound fists) rules on ThaiFight—a testament to his willingness to test himself at the highest levels of authentic Muay Thai.
Originally a Muay Khao fighter, Joseph has evolved into a well-rounded Muay Sok specialist known for devastating elbows. His mindset reflects years of hard-won wisdom: "I have made great efforts to divorce myself from the desire of outcome in terms of winning or losing. I aim to perform well and I will do everything in my power to make sure the other guy remembers me, one way or another."
Guided by his personal motto—"Lo, There, the Furnace Awaits"—and the words of James Russell Lowell: "Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime," Joseph embodies a fighter who seeks the hardest path available. For him, Muay Thai is more than a sport: "Muay Thai has given me a life that I am truly proud, and excited, to live. It's the truest thing I've ever known."
Fighting full-time in Thailand with his next bout on ThaiFight League under Kard Chuek rules on November 2nd, Joseph fights not just for himself but to honor Coach Matt and prove that all the time and effort invested in him hasn't been for nothing. Supported by his family, particularly his mother, Joseph aims to make everyone who believes in him proud.
Fans can expect one thing when Joseph "Buzzsaw" Grobani steps into the ring: violence. "I would like for people to know that they can expect excitement if they come watch me fight. I do my very best to put on a violent performance."
Support Joseph as he continues pushing himself to become the best fighter he can possibly be, living his truth in the land where Muay Thai was born.
