Hitman Academy team
Team

Get to know our Team.

Meet the coaches behind the fight lab - disciplined, relentless, and ready to build your best self.

Head coach Cole HenningCole Henning profile
Founder20+ years on the mats

STRONG ENOUGH TO BE GENTLE.

Cole (Hitman) Henning has coached fighters and everyday athletes for two decades. His approach emphasizes intelligent aggression, precision technique, and a team-first culture.

Philosophy

Build trust, sharpen fundamentals, and pressure test every skill.

Credentials

4th Dan black belt in Kickboxing, black belt in Gendai Jujitsu and Krav Maga, and purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Achievements

Current WAKO Pro K-1 South African title holder, K1 SA WAKO Pro Champion (75 kg), active EFC athlete, international appearances including UAE Warriors, and professional fight experience in kickboxing, Muay Thai, and MMA, plus the record for the fastest knockout in EFC history (5 seconds).

Mentor

Schalk van der Merwe

Cole is mentored by Schalk van der Merwe, who began martial arts at age 9 in 1978 and trained across Judo, Boxing, Wrestling, Taekwondo, Kickboxing, BJJ, and MMA. He is a self-defence instructor for both corporate and individual clients, as well as a fitness and conditioning coach and certified personal trainer.

Team

Trainer spotlight.

Meet the coaches behind the fight lab. Rotating highlights keep the focus on what each trainer specializes in.