Interested in watching some of Alabama’s best Mixed Martial Arts fighting?

Come out to the Auburn Covered Arena on Saturday, October 18th at 8 p.m. to watch the Auburn Fight Night. The event, sponsored by Nutrition First, Bad Boyz MMA Gym and Budweiser, will feature various Mixed Martial Arts fighters from all over the South.

What is MMA fighting, you might ask?

Mixed Martial Arts fighting techniques were first created as defense techniques used in unarmed combat situations. In 1993, the Ultimate Fighting Championship was founded and has made Mixed Martial Arts fighting an increasingly popular sport. Fighters compete in full contact competitions, featuring a variety of violent fighting techniques.

With the growing popularity of the sport, additional rules have been added to increase safety. However, the rules still remain very minimal, as competitors are allowed to strike and grapple their opponents.

Due to the aggressiveness of the sport, many participants have been injured while participating. Blake Robertson, a local MMA fighter, has broken two ribs while training for fights. However, the injuries are worth it.

Robertson, like many other MMA fighters, enjoys the adrenaline of the competition. “I mostly just like to compete. People kind of have a misconception that we’re all mean guys, but it’s not necessarily true. There is no better glory than one-on-one competition, for me,” he said.

Jeremy Matthews, another local fighter, admitted, “I started fighting just to stay out of trouble in school.”

Regardless of their reasons for fighting, each competitor dedicates a great amount time to training. The fighters practice at least 6 days per week, for 2-3 hours each day.

Come watch all their hard work pay off, as they compete in the Auburn Fight Night. Tickets can be purchased at Nutrition First, Bad Boyz MMA Gym or at the gate. Prices are $20 in advance or $25 dollars on the night of the event. With a valid student id, Auburn students will receive a $5 discount.

For more information, visit Nutrition First or Bad Boyz MMA Gym.