EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Alex Inostroza, known as Lil Alex, has worn many hats throughout his life, from tattoo artist to mixed martial arts (MMA) coach.

His journey began in 1998 when, at the age of 12, he got in a fight at school, and was introduced to boxing by the school security guard who was also a boxing coach. “I was a little rascal, though, you know, I had a little chip on my shoulders,” said Inostroza, reflecting on his early years.

In 2015, Inostroza transitioned from the boxing ring to the jiu jitsu mat, embracing the discipline of Brazilian jiu jitsu and MMA. “I’m not the biggest of the strongest. But we here, baby, you know?” he said. Despite his modest stature, Inostroza continues to compete, with his most recent tournament in judo taking place just three weeks ago. He is preparing for an upcoming competition in Orange County on October 26.

Since 2017, Inostroza has been coaching kids in boxing and jiu jitsu, finding inspiration in the young athletes he mentors. “When you have a bunch of other little kids looking at you and kind of like looking up to you, you know, it’s, it’s not just about, you know, more it’s it’s bigger than you,” he said. He encourages others to witness the motivation and energy of a kids’ Brazilian jiu jitsu class, saying, “That’ll light a fire up under your butt for sure.”

Inostroza’s passion for martial arts has also influenced his children, Alex Jr. and Iyzik, who have been training since they were three years old and coaching since they were 10 and 12. “I have my dad’s jab,” said Alex Jr. “So every time I jab someone, they like, Oh, I don’t like that. And I’ll be like, I got that from my daddy.”

The Inostroza family believes in the transformative power of MMA. “Me personally, I think MMA brings balance to my life,” said Iyzik. Lil Alex added, “I think every man, every boy, every girl, every woman needs a physical outlet.”

In addition to his roles in martial arts, Inostroza is a skilled tattoo artist, continuing to leave his mark both in the octagon and on the skin of his clients.

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