‘Everybody was kung fu fighting’

With football season ending, many people in the area are on the lookout for hard-hitting, fast-paced action that will get adrenaline flowing and bring fans to their feet. For those who fall into that category, look no further than the Ultimate Gladiator Competition Krewe of Gladiators at the Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center on Feb. 24, at 7:30 p.m.

Presented by Pitbull Productions, the Krewe of Gladiators features mixed martial arts cage fighting by an array of local talent. There will be pro and amateur fights, including two championship bouts for the Welterweight and Light Heavyweight Titles.

The Ultimate Gladiator Competition last held an event at the Civic Center in June, and it sold out, forcing the ticket office to turn away a number of fans. Because of that, seating for February’s Krewe of Gladiators has expanded by 1,600.

Tammy Usie, event publicist, says the event is one that is currently in high demand. “Mixed martial arts cage fighting seems to be the hottest thing going,” said Usie. “The spectators love the heightened level of competition and the rush of the excitement. (The fans) are sure to leave the event entertained.”

Mixed martial arts has grown in popularity in recent years, and is considered one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Officially organized in 1993 under the Ultimate Fighting Championship moniker, it is a combination of martial arts, wrestling and boxing. According to Usie, the core reason for the formation of the sport is based on the question: “Can a wrestler beat a boxer?”

While that question is one of the primary reasons for the formation of the sport, fans got more than they bargained for. Mixed martial arts cage fighting is marketed as a sport that determines the best overall fighter, no matter what discipline he is trained in.

Meaning? In one single match, the no-holds-barred fighting could shift from submission tactics to striking and grappling tactics, making each fighter’s move quick and unpredictable. Meaning? Fights will likely have fans on the edge of their seats.

And fans in the tri-parish area will have the opportunity to see local competitors go at it inside the eight-sided metal cage.

Usie said that the opportunity to see local competitors is one of the most exciting aspects of UGC’s Krewe of Gladiators. “What makes it more entertaining is when you’re cheering for someone you know,” she said. “Fortunately Pitbull Productions has hosted many events over the years, which have helped breed fighters in our area and given them an outlet to compete. Many local guys will be fighting on this card, so we encourage everyone to come out and cheer them on.”

Tickets are on sale at the Civic Center Box Office, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. They are also available at www.ticketmaster.com.

Prices are $30, $45 and $60, tax included and possible service charges. For VIP floor tables, visit Body Elite Fitness Center or call 985-851-4215.

‘Everybody was kung fu fighting’