MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Mixed Martial Arts fighters came from all over Southern California to compete in the octagon ring at Camp Pendleton's 11 Area field, May 7.
The Marine Corps Community Services sponsored event, featured 18 competitors from PureCombat and Hitman Fights organizations, and was free for all base occupants. The fight night included nine brawls, with the final bout being a competition for the PureCombat championship belt.
Fighters spent months prepering for this one night.
"I have been training for seven or eight months," said Quentin T. Triche, MMA fighter from Mreno Valley, Calif. "This is my first fight, and it is a great adrenaline rush. I'm honored to have this experience and fight for Marines," he added.
The fighters dedicate many hours to prepare for competitions, but the coaches and trainers are usually right by their side, making sure their warriors are ready to contend.
"Quentin earned his opportunity to compete," said Coach Glover, Triche's coach. "This event was the perfect occasion to start his fighting career."
Saftey is always first at our events, said Rodney J. Partridge, co-owner and promoter, PureCombat MMA. The competition followed the Unified Rules for Mixed Martial Arts that required all fighters to wear four-ounce gloves, groin protection and mouthpieces, and the fight cage was internationally certified and approved for the use of MMA events.
"It was a great event to see live professional MMA fighting," said Pfc. Joseph M. Peterson, combat videographer, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division. "I've never been this close to an MMA competition."
After the eight fight, the crowd got loud for the main event, a battle between Kenny "The Crusher" McCorkell and Anthony Ruiz. Ruiz took home the belt after a tough three-round bout.
The fight night was dedicated to the Wounded Warriors and all the Marines and sailors on Camp Pendleton, said Partridge. We wanted to give them something to take there mind off of their everyday workload. Each of the fighters donated their time for the event.
"I felt appreciated knowing the fighters were out here in support of what we are doing for our country, said Pfc. Jorge A. Ortiz, combat lithographer, Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division. "It was a great event to watch."
PureCombat MMA is planning more events at Camp Pendleton, said Partridge. It is important to honor those who serve our country.