PHOTO | Juan Maldonado
Mixed Martial Arts fighting involves several unique and effective combat methods for ground or standing fights. Techniques used can include Brazilian jujitsu, wrestling, boxing and forms of martial arts. Competitors are matched for fights according to their size, weight or athletic ability.
“Everybody wants to get in there and wants to be a fighter, up until they get punched in the face,” Master Erick Braly, who trains Shark Fights competitors at the Martial Arts & Athletic Center (MAAC), said.
MMA fighting has become very popular over the last few years thanks to organizations like UFC, EliteXC and Strikeforce. But since 2008, Shark Fights has been gaining national recognition with its match ups.
Shark Fights, an Amarillo-based organization, officially entered the ring in October of 2008 with an audience of 4,600 at the Amarillo National Center. After having a successful first event, it has gone on to host eight more events in the Panhandle area, each helping the organization to grow in fame and recognition.
“We had something more formal than just a group of guys wanting to fight,” Shark Fights President Brent Medley said. “Our first show out of the blocks, we knew we had something.”
As Shark Fights continued to grow, the organization opened a merchandise store in Westgate Mall in Amarillo. The back of the store houses the Shark Fights executive offices, while the front of the store offers fighting gear and other Shark Fights products.
Many of the area’s local competitors train at The MAAC, or Martial Arts & Athletic Center, located at 3820 Line Avenue in Amarillo. The MAAC is owned by Mike Lister and offers several classes for anyone wanting to start training to be a competitor in MMA fights or just looking for a workout.
“Win, lose or draw, we’re still gonna be here, behind each other through everything,” John King, a Shark Fights competitor, said.
The MAAC offers WT students a 10% discount off of the monthly price of $90, if you can show your school ID.
“We have professional fighters training alongside kids who do it for fun,” Braly said. “There aren’t any egos here, just support.”
Shark Fight Interviews
 John King |
“What we do in a cage isn’t just going outside the bar and throwing punches. It’s about having discipline and control. When you get in [the ring] you show your art. That’s what MMA is: your art, your passion.” |
 Cody Pfister |
“I like the competition and the rush after. I’m ready, and I’ve been training a ton.” |
 Edgar Santoz |
“I came from Brazil, and now I’m the only black belt in Brazilian jujitsu in this area.” |
 Erick Braly |
“It’s like everybody’s tough in their ‘Tap Out’ shirts, but when you have to come in everyday sore and tired, you see who really wants to do this.” |