From Refugee to NZ Combat Sports Brand Owner | PunchPower Labs

When I think back to where it all began, it’s hard to believe how far I’ve come. My name is Robert Demeter, and I’m the founder of PunchPower Labs. But before this brand existed, before the gear, the community, and the dream, there was a story of survival, sacrifice, and a deep love for Muay Thai that pulled me through my darkest days.

Fleeing Home and Facing the Unknown

I was born Romani, a heritage that has shaped my life in ways most people don’t understand. Some might know the word “gypsy” from shows like Peaky Blinders, but that term carries a lot of pain and misunderstanding. In 2010, when I was just 10 years old, my family faced severe racism and discrimination in the Czech Republic. It wasn’t safe for us anymore.

We made the difficult decision to sell our house and everything we owned just to afford flights to New Zealand. We arrived as refugees with only $400 in our pockets, stepping into a new world with nothing but hope. It was terrifying and humbling. But New Zealand became our new home, and I’m proud to be a citizen today.

Finding Strength in the Auckland Muay Thai Community

Years later, I hit a low point in my life. Depression had me in its grip, and I was searching for something to hold onto. That’s when I found Muay Thai. I started training locally in Auckland, and it quickly became more than just a sport. It was a lifeline.

Training Muay Thai gave me purpose and a sense of belonging. I traveled to Thailand to train, immersing myself in the culture and the discipline of the sport. I wasn’t destined to be a pro fighter, but I wanted to be part of this community for life. That’s when the idea of PunchPower Labs was born.

Sacrifices Made for a Dream

Starting a combat sports brand from scratch wasn’t easy. I was a huge car enthusiast, and I owned a Nissan Skyline R32 and an Evo 5—cars I loved deeply. But I sold both to fund my dream. For two years, I’ve been carless, pouring every cent into building PunchPower Labs.

The first year was brutal. I faced supplier problems, wasted marketing efforts, and unusable stock. I nearly went bankrupt before I even officially launched. But quitting was never an option. I saved up again, learned from my mistakes, and kept pushing forward.

Launching the Golden Fang V2

In April 2026, operating solo with limited capital, I launched our new gear drop: the Golden Fang V2. This wasn’t just a product release; it was a symbol of resilience and hard work. Every piece of gear represents the journey from hardship to hope, from refugee to brand owner.

Building a Community That Gives Back

PunchPower Labs is still small, but my vision is big. I want to build a community that supports New Zealand fighters, especially those who don’t have the resources to chase their dreams. I plan to sponsor athletes, sending them to Thailand to train and fight, representing both PunchPower Labs and New Zealand on the world stage.

This brand is more than just gear. It’s about connection, support, and giving back to the Auckland Muay Thai community and beyond.

Overcoming Depression Through Martial Arts

My journey shows how martial arts can change lives. For me, Muay Thai was the key to overcoming depression. It gave me discipline, focus, and a community that cared. If you’re struggling, know that there’s a way forward. Sometimes, it starts with putting on your gloves and stepping into the gym.

What I’ve Learned Starting a Fight Brand

Starting a fight brand from scratch taught me lessons I never expected:

• Patience is crucial. Success doesn’t come overnight.

• Mistakes are part of the process. Every failure is a chance to learn.

• Community matters. Building relationships is as important as building products.

• Sacrifice is real. Sometimes you have to give up what you love to create something new.

  
  

A Message to Fellow Fighters and Entrepreneurs

If you’re a Muay Thai fighter, a kickboxer, or a small business owner in New Zealand, remember this: your story matters. Your struggles can fuel your success. PunchPower Labs started with nothing but a dream and a lot of grit. You can build something meaningful too.

Let’s keep pushing, training, and supporting each other. Together, we can grow the Auckland Muay Thai community and make a mark on the world.

PunchPower Labs is more than a brand. It’s a journey from hardship to hope, from a refugee kid with $400 to a proud Romani entrepreneur in New Zealand. If you’re ready to fight for your dreams, I’m here with you.