Since its inception in 2016, Almighty Fighting Championship (AFC) has gradually built a reputation as one of the most respected fighting shows, with regular events held in major cities such as Liverpool, Leeds and Newcastle. I've been building it up.
And AFC 36 takes place tonight, with dozens of fighters set to take part at Coventry's Sports Connection.
But the real highlight will be the amateur light heavyweight bout between Dan Jones and West Midlands' Cartledge.
Cartlidge, who hails from the Black Country, predicts a win in this match.
The 26-year-old, who is fighting after completing Intensity MMA, said, “I had a great camp and I feel like the best I can be, so I believe I will come home victorious and take the belt with me.'' myself.
“This is my first time headlining a card, so it’s my first time taking center stage.However, I have fought in several enemy territories and achieved results, so my experience in previous fights will be helpful. right.
“I enjoy the raucous atmosphere and roller coaster of emotions that the day brings, and it’s fun to see how the other fighters conduct themselves and prepare before heading to the cage.”
Cartledge continued about his training: “It was a good camp. We didn't have any injuries to deal with. Every fighter has some little issues, but they're part of the game. This camp was great for sparring and working with different training partners. I was able to travel there and it was very beneficial.
“Since this is my first fight at light heavyweight, my coach and I decided it would be wise to seek help with not only nutrition but also strength and conditioning. I've been working with Paul Reid on performances and this was one of the best moves I've made since my debut and since I've taken this seriously.
MMA is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the United States and Cage Warriors in the United Kingdom paving the way for up-and-coming organizations such as the AFC . It serves as a springboard for young fighters to begin their MMA journey.
The event will feature amateur and professional bouts, with more than 30 fighters expected to put their bodies on the line in front of hundreds of spectators.
Cartledge, who works as a bricklayer when not fighting, has been passionate about martial arts most of his life.
“I've been in and out of martial arts for about 15 years,” he said. “I practiced and competed in Shotokan karate from the age of 10 to 17, but after I got injured I stopped liking karate.
“I've followed MMA through the UFC and other big promotions, but I've always said I wanted to get back into martial arts. When I heard that a new gym was opening in my hometown, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to get started and decided to join I approached it like a duck.”
AFC founder Ray Thompson said: “I really can’t wait to do the show in Coventry this month.
“We offer young fighters the opportunity to start their journey to see if they can be the next Leon Edwards or Tom Aspinall.”
Much has changed in the world of MMA since Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend Royce Gracie won his first UFC title in the early 1990s. Over the years, the sport has emerged as a true competitor to mainstream industries such as boxing.
Thompson further added, “MMA is the purest form of combat, with many possibilities, from explosive fights and knockouts with striking styles such as boxing and kickboxing, to more technical finishes such as wrestling and ground grappling.” It has a hidden sexuality,” he added. Jiu-jitsu that leads to submissions.
“The combination of different styles allows spectators to experience an excitement that cannot be found in other martial arts.
“Those coming to AFC for the first time can expect a great atmosphere. The crowd is always excited and that gives the fighters a lot of strength.” This is a can't-miss event for fans. ”
Doors open at 3 p.m. and the first game will be played at 3:30 p.m.
Tickets are priced from £40 and can be purchased online at mmaticketsuk.com.
