Reshat Mati

Reshat Mati wraps his hands as he prepares for a training session in kickboxing at Bars gym. Kickboxing is one of the hand-to-hand combat sports in which Reshat participates.  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati, center, stretches during a workout at Bars gym. When Reshat was 2, his father began training him in self-defense. At 4, he was taking self-defense classes.  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati travels from gym to gym with his father, Adrian Mati, to get in workouts each day, including at NYC Cops & Kids Boxing Club in Brooklyn.  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati stretches against a wall during a training session for Brazilian jujitsu, a martial art that specializes in grappling and ground tactics.  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati delivers a blow to trainer Akmal Zakirov during a kickboxing session at Bars gym. Reshat’s father, Adrian, grew up in Albania and introduced combat sports to his children after immigrating to the U.S. and starting a family with his wife, Ajshe. “There were no video games,” Adrian says of life in Albania. “The only thing we had was wrestling and boxing.”  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati spars with jujitsu trainer Joseph Capizzi. Reshat trains five days a week, often waking up sore the next day. “I want to work,” he says. “I get my power back.”  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati throws punches at jujitsu trainer Joseph Capizzi during a training session. Reshat’s father, Adrian Mati, dismisses the notion that combat sports are too dangerous for children. “You can get hurt playing anything,” he says, noting that Reshat broke a toe playing soccer.   (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati looks for a takedown by getting a firm grip around the neck and groin of trainer Joseph Capizzi. “I’m not going to lie,” Reshat says. “Before I get in the ring, I get a little nervous.”  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati changes with other students in the locker room at Bars gym. Says one of his coaches: “Reshat comes in and pays attention and walks away with something new each time. I’ve never seen him throw a lazy punch or a fake kick in six years.”  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)

Reshat Mati poses for a portrait at home in Staten Island in his room filled with championship belts and awards. Reshat says he doesn’t crave celebrity. “When I win, I’m happy,” he says.  (Michael Nagle / For The Times)