29 July 2005
Mixed Martial Arts fighting is considered by many to be the pinnacle of real martial arts tests.
Mixed martial arts (MMA) is the combat sport in which two competitors attempt to achieve dominance over one another by
utilizing three general tactics: striking, finishing holds, and control.
The rules allow the combatants to use a variety of martial arts techniques, including punches, kicks, joint-locks,
chokes, takedowns and throws. Victory is normally gained through knock-out, submission (one fighter concedes victory to
the other by tapping the mat or his opponent with his hand), or stoppage by the referee, the fight doctor or a
competitor's cornerman.
Wellington's fledgling MMA scene was given a huge boost last weekend when members from Wellington's only specialists
Grappling School (GSW) competed in their first MMA bouts. Alex Richardson and Phil Stenhouse have been training at GSW
for several months but only recently took up the MMA training after interest from club members prompted the clubs
instructor, Geoff Grant, to begin training fighters for competition.
“The club really focuses on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) skills, but the growth of MMA worldwide has lead to a demand for
this type of training” says Grant.
The Grappling School has been operating for about 5 years and has had National and International success in the
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu arena and now boasts two victories in the MMA arena as well. Richardson and Stenhouse both competed
in the recent “Kiwi King of the Ring” fight night, held in Tauranga.
Stenhouse fighting in his debut MMA fight took on a local Martial Arts Exponent and after 3 grueling rounds was declared
the winner by judges’ decision.
Richardson, also fighting in his debut, faced a Tauranga based fighter and crowd favorite. While clearly the underdog
Richardson dominated the fight from start to finish, with his victory coming from an Armbar at 1.40 in the first round.
Both competitors are more than keen to continue their newfound success and are looking forward to competing in the next
available MMA match. For more information www.mixedmartialarts.co.nz
ENDS