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05/03/10 - UK: Trojan Free Fighters launch new amateur event
The lack of a formal amateur scene where fighters can gain experience before going pro is a matter of consternation for athletes, coaches and more. But Paul Sutherland of Gloucester, a former fighter and now the trainer-manager of the Trojan Free Fighters gym, is keen to do something to change that.
“Too often guys have to make their pro debuts against guys with pro records of 3-0 or 4-0,” he says. “Coming from my background as one of the early guys in the UK doing MMA, you jumped in the deep end, and I didn’t want people doing the same.”
With these sentiments in mind, Sutherland is adding a new feather to his cap – to add to his duties training and managing some of the UK’s hottest talent, he will is becoming a promoter to allow the next generation of fighters to hone their skills.
Ultimate Impact MMA is an amateur event where emerging fighters can contend their first bouts in a cage. They’ll wear 6oz gloves and certain dangerous techniques will be omitted, but the chance to develop the skills necessary to compete in the cage is an opportunity many fighters lack.
“The only established scene for amateurs is Marc Goddard’s show [in Birmingham] really, he’s doing a good job, but when guys want to get to the next level it’s really important to have a grass roots scene, like an apprenticeship, until they get experience to fight on the bigger shows.”
“When guys do step up, they’ll be a lot more skilful as they’ll have that experience.”
Ultimate Impact MMA will take place on April 11th and willfeature 16bouts of amateur action. The goal is simple. “We’re trying to develop the next generation of Dan Hardy’s and Michael Bisping’s,” says Paul. Ultimate Impact MMA will be held at Liquid nightclub in Gloucester on April 11, 2009.
For more information go to www.ultimateimpactmma.com
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