Temple University teenager Austin Carillo has one more thing to do before his summer vacation is over: become a world champion.
The 13-year-old Carillo will be one of 10 youngsters representing the United States at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi from Aug. 6-10.
Austin earned the right to compete overseas as one of the winners of the 2024 United States Fight League National Pankration Championships held in Temecula, California in April.
Austin began learning martial arts in 2021 to stay active during the summer, and it eventually blossomed into a successful mixed martial arts career with 11 tournament wins.
Austin's father, Michael Carillo, said he wanted to help Austin pursue his passion for sports.
“As a father, I couldn't be more proud of my son,” Carrillo said. “I never thought he'd be a young man, 13 years old, traveling all over the world to compete, so I'm just so proud of him.”
Austin has played several sports since he was a child, playing football all school years at North Belton Middle School.
Austin primarily trains in martial arts at Grappler's Lair in Temple Mall, where students learn no-gi jiu-jitsu and mixed martial arts. Austin coaches with veteran TJ Waldburger, a three-time Ultimate Fighting Championship award winner.
Waldburger said his recent training sessions with Austin will be key to his success in Abu Dhabi.
“Right now, especially the week before (the world championships), that's the most pressure period,” Waldburger said. “We're starting to have some more conversations about cutting back on (physical) training and focusing more on the mental side.”
Austin leaves for Abu Dhabi on Thursday, accompanied by Waldburger and his father, and reflected on his expectations heading into the championship.
“I think (my goal is) to get first, second or third,” Austin said. “I think that would be a great accomplishment. Of course I'd like to win, but I've got to get first place. That's a big thing.”
Traveling the world for tournaments isn't cheap, and the Carrillo brothers are accepting donations and sponsorships for travel arrangements through Cashapp.
