Swindon to host mixed martial arts event (From Swindon Advertiser)

Swindon to host mixed martial arts event

1:00pm Monday 9th February 2009 in Sport By Craig Lyus

A DECADE ago Mixed Martial Arts had all the mass-market appeal of a bare-knuckle street fight. Today it’s arguably the fastest growing sport on the planet - and it’s coming to Swindon.

For years MMA was considered too barbaric to break into the mainstream with the misconception it was vicious no holds-barred fighting in a metal cage.

In reality there are strict rules and an exemplary safety record in what is essentially a battle of wits between different fighting styles - the wrestler against the karate black belt, the boxer versus the judo master etc.

Flagship American organisation the Ultimate Fighting Championship has led a media onslaught to change public opinion to the extent where the UFC’S pay-per-view figures often outstrip boxing’s superfights in the States.

The trend is catching on in the UK too, with the UFC’s British poster boy, middleweight contender Michael Bisping, a leading influence.

As a result, numerous UK organisations have spawned in the last couple of years. Pro Kumite is one of them and they will be hosting Swindon’s first MMA card on Saturday, February 21 at the Oasis Leisure Centre.

Tournament co-ordinator Rich Austin is glad to see a shift in public opinion and urges the doubters to experience the sport first hand.

He said: “There is a stigma attached by the uneducated towards MMA.

“But if people were to take a closer look, they would see that there are a full set of rules to adhere to, a fully professional referee, three judges, a paramedic, technician and a doctor all present before a bout can even begin.

“The strict rules and regulations are there for the safety of the fighter and the officials. Long gone are the days of two bruisers banging it out with no skills, fighters have to be versed in various arts now to even be considered good enough.

“Training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Karate are just some of the skills that you need to become a complete well-rounded fighter.

“The training that these guys put in is immense, some even full-time.”

Pro Kumite started up a year ago and regularly put on shows that attract more than 1,000 spectators.

The organisation plan to host a total of five shows in 2009 with a return to Swindon probable if next week’s show is as well received as expected.

Austin added: “MMA is now classed as the world’s fastest growing sport, I would say that a huge amount of that is down to the UFC and the TV coverage that satellite TV allows here in the UK.

“The man who put the UK on the map was Ian Freeman, with the success also of Mike Bisping the UK scene is now on fire.”

Two Swindon fighters will be hoping to follow in those prestigious footsteps when they feature on the Pro Kumite card.

Heavyweight Dave ‘Bam Bam’ Gregory, from Eldene, is fighting for the second time on Pro Kumite after a debut loss last November - although the 34-year-old won ‘fight of the night’ honours after that epic battle.

Oakhurst’s Gary ‘Mad Monk’ Watson, 25, is the other Swindonian in action, fighting at welterweight after a similarly unsuccessful debut at the end of last year.

For tickets and further information on the Oasis show call 01189 345299 or email: info@prokumite.co.uk.