For one night only, Muay Thai fighters from across the country will meet in Tacoma, Washington, for a once in a lifetime opportunity. They have a shot at winning the first WBC Amateur Muay Thai Championship belt. Saturday, May 27, the Tacoma Soccer Center will house the open tournament presented by SoCal’s Defiant Promotions. Starting promptly at noon, the action will commence in two rings. Daniel Gutierrez, owner of Defiant Promotions, says: “We have 55 fights total and we’re going to get through them all in one day . . . single eliminations; that’s it. We’re starting at 12 pm and going until we have WBC champs!”
This was originally set up as a three-day tournament, but was condensed due to registration numbers. “I kind of thank God that it’s only 60 that signed up, especially for my first time,” Gutierrez said. “That way, I can kind of control it a little bit better . . . it will be one day of a lot of fights . . . back to back fights.” Gutierrez has been promoting fights for the last three years. This is Defiant Promotions’ first travel show and first large-scale, multi-division tournament.
Who knew Washington had such a huge Muay Thai following. Gutierrez, who is LA-born and raised, admits his surprise at the fight culture in the Pacific Northwest. He was reminded of what the culture used to be like in California. “We’re like the hot bed of Muay Thai . . . I was very surprised that they (Seattle) have a growing scene. It reminds me of LA in the ‘90s, when Muay Thai was just coming up. Very impressed . . . and I’d like to be a part of it.”
If you’ve never seen combat sports or mixed martial arts live, it’s recommended. Originally formed and practiced in Thailand and Southeast Asia, Muay Thai is translated as Thai Boxing. In Muay Thai, participants can use their fists, knees, elbows, and legs in combat, which is also why the sport is referred to as The Art of Eight Limbs. Gutierrez assures the show will be filled with “excitement. I’ve never thrown a boring show; action-packed from beginning to end. You know, you’re going to see a bunch of knockouts . . . a bunch of good-skilled people going at it. You’re going to see a bunch of tired people, too, but it’s going to be a lot of fun.” His sentiments are reflective of a close-knit community; a community that trains hard; a community filled with people from all different backgrounds.
Of the sixty fighters spread out over different weight divisions, the men’s 147-152-pound group has the most participants and is the most evenly matched in terms of fighter records. Janet Todd, from Boxing Works in Huntington Beach, California, is the one to watch, according to the promoter in the women’s 108-112-pound division. Gutierrez referred to her as a standout with over 20 fights. Todd is composed and is an extremely technical fighter. She’s been complimented on her power and speed and will fight hard in Saturday’s tournament.
Another fighter of note is Mohammed Davis out of CSA Gym in Dublin, California. With a record of 8-0, Gutierrez advises that Davis is a stud. Representing Defiant Muay Thai Gym is Jacobe Powell, who has been called dangerous by Gutierrez. “He’s got power in both hands and legs. He’ll knock you out in one minute . . . super explosive, crazy guy . . . very composed, as well. Powell, who has been training and competing for five years, takes a page out of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s psychological warfare playbook when advising his opponents: “As far as tips for my opponents, drink a lot of alcohol. Get heavy weights, do hamstring curls and drink beer the night before . . . I think that’s probably the best way to beat me . . . Nice preparation.” Fighting at 153 pounds, Powell finds it best not to have any expectations going into this tournament. “If I’m prepared and I’m mentally ready, I’m going to do as well as I’m supposed to do.”
This tournament could prove extremely challenging for those advancing to the next round, as one could be fighting three to four times in one day. However, this idea doesn’t phase Powell. “It’s just one of those things where you know you have a long day of work, so you just get through each task one at a time, and hopefully have a good day.”
This is an experience you won’t regret. One full Saturday of non-stop, heart-pounding ring action. Just remember not to wear white, especially if you’re sitting ringside!
For more information, visit www.defiantpromotions.com or visit its Facebook page. Tickets for the event are $25 and can be purchased at the door. There are in and out privileges during the event for ticket holders.