Cole “The Slaw” Harvey 

Edmond teen Cole Harvey doesn’t spend much time on video games or social media. Most afternoons, you’ll find him barefoot on the mat at Pride Mixed Martial Arts training, teaching, and preparing for his next fight. That focus paid off in October when the 17-year-old, known in the ring as “The Slaw” – a more intimidating moniker than “Cole Slaw” – won the adult featherweight division at the prestigious TBA-SA Tournament of Champions in Des Moines, Iowa. 

The annual event, sanctioned by the Thai Boxing Association Sanctioning Authority, is one of the most competitive amateur Muay Thai tournaments in the United States. For Harvey, it marked the first time competing as an adult in the advanced Class B bracket, a level reserved for fighters with several bouts under their belt. Cole didn’t just hold his own. He achieved a decisive victory, stopping his opponent in the second round after two standing eight-counts. 

“It was surreal to win in my first adult bracket at such a major event,” said Harvey. “I’ve trained hard with my team at Pride MMA, and I’m excited to keep pushing forward.” 

Harvey’s passion for Muay Thai started early. “My sister did cheer right across the street, and her friend had a brother who invited me to come check it out,” he said. “I just stuck with it.” That “sticking with it” has turned into 11 years of training, with Harvey spending six days a week at the gym. 

“Cole is a remarkable young man,” said Jason Epps, Cole’s coach and the owner and head instructor at Pride Mixed Martial Arts. “He’s dedicated, disciplined, and dangerous in the ring. He’s here from after school until evening, training, coaching the younger students, and leading by example. A lot of parents want their kids to model after him, and I can’t think of a higher compliment.” 

Muay Thai, often called “the art of eight limbs,” uses punches, kicks, knees, and elbows. But for Harvey, it’s more than physical skill. It’s about respect and connection. “Muay Thai has taught me time management and respect,” he said. “It’s not just about fighting. It’s an art that honors Thai culture.” 

Both coach and competitor agree: “Muay Thai builds respect not rivalries.” 

Now a senior, Cole is already a three-time TBA World Classic champion and hopes to keep climbing the ranks. “Competing has been my dream for the last couple of years,” he said. “I want to go pro, keep fighting, and see how far I can go.” 

With Muay Thai recently accepted into the Olympics, that goal may be closer than ever. But for now, Edmond’s own “Slaw” is staying grounded by training hard, helping others, and keeping his eyes on the next challenge. 

“You’re gonna have days that feel terrible,” Harvey said. “But you can’t let that stop you. You just keep moving forward.” 

You can find Cole on Instagram @cole_harveymma.