MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The thud of weary bodies falling on mats echoed through Camp Pendleton’s Paige Fieldhouse, during a mixed martial arts clinic, Oct. 26.
The event provided some of the world’s best MMA fighters to teach fighting tips and moves to Marines.
More than 50 service members attended the event, and the ones who strive to become more talented fighters benefitted by learning new training methods and techniques while gaining valuable insight into the world of MMA
“This was, by far, some of the best training I’ve ever received,” said Cpl. Joshua M. Collier, bulk fuel specialist, 1st Marine Division. “It definitely was a great privilege to be on the same mat as (the professionals).
Ultimate Fighting Championship’s Tahi Burns, Gray Maynard and Jorge Rivera were among the ten fighters giving Marines lessons on their expert skills.
“Seeing all these UFC legends face-to-face is such an honor,” said Collier. “But having them take the time to teach me what made them so successful is something that I will never forget.”
The martial arts style of Jiu Jitsu, incorporating striking maneuvers and weapons defense, was the focus of the clinic.
“Awesome wisdom is useless unless you have someone to share it with,” said Jorge Rivera, MMA fighter. “And who better to share it with, than the people who defend our freedom.”
Towards the end of the clinic, Marines were given an opportunity to show-off their skills while the instructors observed and critiqued their moves.
“I’ve learned so much more in these three hours than I have in a month of training,” said Sgt. Alex R. King, warehouse clerk, 1st Marine Logistics Group.
To conclude the event, the Marines socialized with the instructors on a more personal level, received autographs and posed for pictures.
Each participant received a complimentary gift bag from the fighters that included t-shirts, magazines and training booklets.
Following the clinic, surprisingly there was only one question.
“When will they be back,” said King.