So you Want to be a fighter; now what?

"I want to be a fighter; how can I get into it?"

I have been asked this question many times and have decided to help give directions for people interested in becoming a fighter. I am thinking mostly of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), but the same steps could be used for boxing and or any other combat sport. I also like to point out that there is a difference between fighting professionally and for sport. The biggest difference is you will have to fight for sport/fun/free to gain the experience necessary to fight in a professional venue and get paid.   

1.) TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN.

Train as much as possible. From your first time stepping on a mat to the last time you step off, only training will make you a capable fighter.  Do not just train anywhere. I usually recommend trying EVERY fight gym within a comfortable drive for yourself. Not only to ensure quality instructors, but also to ensure it is a good fit for you. To continue to put the required time in, you're going to have to make sure you enjoy training there. Show up, practice often, ask questions, and make sure the instructors and partners know your intentions to become a fighter, so that they give you the proper training. I personally will ONLY train at gyms that either have a fight team, or an instructor who fights. There is a different dynamic of training for fun, self-defense, and for combat sports. Make a schedule to train, and stick to it. You can always be better than you were yesterday. It is always best to ask your coaches/instructors if they think you are ready before signing up for a fight. DO NOT ever sign up for a fight unprepared.

2.) PUT THE TIME IN

 I recommend as many amateur fights as you can get, prior to considering a professional fight. We all start as amateur fighters; not only is important to gain the ring experience, but to even be considered for most pro fights. Promoters look at fight records when deciding who to add on as new fighters to a fight card. Most would rather sign an amateur fighter with a 5-6 record over a 2-0 record, just due to ring experience. Becoming a professional fighter requires paying your dues in the amateur ring.

2.) RESEARCH.

Don’t just fight anywhere. Find information about local fight venues. It is good to have background information about fight venues and their promoters. I always talk to other fighters who have tried particular venues to ask how the fighters were treated. You should always find out who the sanctioning body is for the venue as well, and IF any sub-licenses are required by them. A good sanctioning body will ensure that fighters have had proper health screenings, and have medical staff onboard. It is also good to find out who the referees are and who certified them. There are different certifying bodies for refs, all with different requirements; C.O.M.M.A.N.D. and ELITE are two well-known referee certifying bodies. There are others, but again, do your research.

5.) MAKE YOURSELF KNOWN.

In order to have any success as a pro fighter, your name has to sell seats, even if only at local events at first. You have to put yourself out there. Taking advantage of social media is a great tool for fighters. There are different websites, blogs, and programs online that fighters can sign up for. Make profiles, talk with fans, find and promoters and sponsors. Part of being a successful fighter is getting into the public eye of fight fans. Stay active on these sites and give the fans the info they like to read about. Measurements, fight record, who you train with, including any coach or camp affiliations. Always try to include photos. www.mmarecruiter.com or www.mmafreeagent.com are great examples of such websites.

6.). TRAIN HARD-FIGHT HARD-WIN!!!”

As simple as that, REPEAT.

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