It’s time for Abu Dhabi’s brawlers to limber up, slip those mouth guards in and dose up on mean juice – round two of the Abu Dhabi Fighting Championship has been announced.
For anyone who missed the first stage of the contest in May, the ADFC is the first regional Mixed Martial Arts championship and has three rounds. At stake for the fighters is not just an opportunity for pounding opponents into oblivion to rapturous applause, but a whopping one million dirhams in prize money. Organisers say round two is shaping up to be more of a hardcore rumble than the previous show , with the emphasis this time on making sure MMA fans get to see great fights up close and personal. Mind those flying teeth!
Time Out caught a few minutes with Hassan Al Rumaithi, the UAE’s first Mixed Martial Artist.
You’re the only Emirati taking part in the ADFC – what inspired you to take up MMA in the first place?
I studied Judo for ten years, and also trained in Jujitsu and kickboxing. I train at the Abu Dhabi Combat Centre and I’m hoping to promote Mixed Martial Arts among other young Emiratis.
What’s your fighting style?
Jujuitsu is my main strength, which is good, as some of the other fighters are not so skilled at that. Jujitsu is far more of a strength for me than kickboxing for example.
Do you have a signature move?
Not really – it depends on what the other guy does! I just have to respond to that. It’s always good for me if I can get someone down on the floor and use grappling techniques.
What’s been your worst injury?
I haven’t really had anything too bad happen so far. Nothing serious anyway…
So, feeling confident about round two then? Any fear you’ll get annihilated in the ring?
Well I believe in God, so I trust I can come back from anything when I fight. Whatever will happen will happen.
ADFC, round two will take place at Adnec on October 22
