MEET THE CAST

TAKING THE FIGHT

Stuart Warren Dansby

Stuart Warren Dansby

Amateur Muay Thai Fighter Kickboxer

Stuart Warren Dansby posses a diverse range of talents and accomplishments. His journey encompasses both creative pursuits in media production and significant achievements as a fighter and in martial arts.

As an executive producer and protagonist of the documentary "Taking The Fight," Stuart has garnered considerable acclaim. The film’s impressive track record includes screenings at 25 film festivals and winning 31 awards across multiple categories such as Best Feature Documentary, Best Inspirational, Best Direction, Editing, and Best Original Music Score. Its availability on major streaming platforms underscores its broad appeal and success in reaching audiences worldwide.

Beyond documentaries, Stuart co-created and contributed in various roles to the travel-based TV show "Livin La Vida with Stella & Stuart," alongside Stella Vidal. This venture enjoyed a prosperous four-year run and achieved national syndication, highlighting Stuart’s versatility and creativity in television production.

In the realm of athletics, Stuart’s prowess as an amateur Muay Thai and Kickboxing fighter is notable, culminating in his title as the 305Fights Welterweight Kickboxing Champion. His dedication to martial arts is underscored by his achievement of a 1st degree black belt in American Kickboxing, showcasing his commitment and skill in this demanding discipline.

Outside of his professional and athletic achievements, Stuart embraces a diverse array of hobbies. His passion for cooking, enjoyment of boating, and occasional pursuits in scuba diving and surfing reflect his adventurous spirit and zest for life beyond his professional pursuits.

Stuart Warren Dansby’s journey exemplifies a blend of creativity, athleticism, and exploration, shaping a multifaceted career and personal life enriched by diverse interests and achievements.

Gregory Choplin

Gregory Choplin

MMA Head Coach

Gregory Choplin, a former two-time WBC world Muay Thai Champion and WMC world Muay Thai champion, is both French and Ivorian. He moved to the US in 2010 and became a US citizen in 2016. Since retiring as a champion in 2017, he has coached and trained some of the highest level MMA and Muay Thai fighters in the world. Stuart Warren Dansby has been under his coaching since 2015.

Manolo

Manolo

Head Coach Freedom Fighters MMA

Manuel “Manolo” Lopez, former Cuban and Pan American Karate Champion, is the owner and head coach of Freedom Fighters MMA. He has trained numerous world champions, UFC fighters, and high-level professional and amateur MMA and kickboxing fighters. Stuart Warren Dansby has been under his guidance since 2010.

Diego

Diego

Owner KO Zone - Strength and Conditioning Coach

Diego De Vera, is a former Pan American Muay Thai Champion and TKD/ITF World Kickboxing Champion, is the owner of KO Zone in Miami, Florida. He is also a strength and conditioning coach and has certified Stuart Warren Dansby for a black belt in American Boxing. De Vera has been Dansby’s strength and conditioning coach since 2010.

Stella Vidal

Stella Vidal

Wife- Life Partner- Corner-woman

Stella and Stuart’s unwavering partnership has been the driving force behind their success for the past two decades. As a licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor and Certified Energy Practitioner, Stella has become a trailblazer in the Holistic Wellness industry. Her unique approach to mental health and wellbeing has been recognized and featured in numerous national publications.

As a Latina immigrant who escaped the drug cartels in Colombia, Stella’s journey has been one of resilience, strength, and determination.

Stella’s unwavering dedication to holistic wellness and mental health makes her the perfect partner for Stuart as they embark on their latest project, the documentary "Taking The Fight." Stella’s unconditional support for Stuart during his compelling journey represents the true essence of selfless love and acceptance.

© 2026 Taking the Fight - a RoarPost Production