Mixed Martial Arts fighters in Canada are gearing up for a historic event as Rumble in the Cage, the longest-running MMA show in the country, is set to host the first-ever sanctioned bare knuckle MMA fight in Canada. This event is a significant milestone for the sport in the country, as bare knuckle fights have only previously occurred in the United States. The main event will feature Tim Tamaki from Lethbridge facing off against Lenny Wheeler from P.E.I in the country’s debut Bare Knuckle MMA fight for professional light weight. Tamaki, who has been training for over 20 years, expressed his excitement for the event and shared that he has been training rigorously in preparation for the fight.
Tamaki explained that he has dedicated long hours to training, often practicing five to six nights a week and maintaining a strict diet. Despite the weight difference in this fight, with Tamaki usually fighting at 145 pounds and now competing at 155, he feels confident and well-prepared. He expressed his anticipation for the upcoming fight and his comfort in his skill set and mindset leading up to the event. Tamaki also emphasized his respect for his opponent, acknowledging their capabilities and the challenge they present in the octagon.
In Bare Knuckle MMA, the rules are similar to traditional MMA fights with the exception that athletes do not wear padded gloves. Fighters are only allowed to have tape on their wrist and part of their hand, without any knuckle protection. This lack of padding increases the risk of cuts during fights but also allows for better application of chokes and other techniques. Lee Mein, the owner of Rumble in the Cage, explained that this format makes fights more exciting and intense, often resulting in more bloodshed, which adds to the intrigue of the sport. Mein and his team have been working towards getting permissions for Bare Knuckle MMA after successfully getting bare knuckle boxing approved a few years ago.
The upcoming event on April 20 is already sold out and will feature a total of 17 MMA fights, including both amateur and professional bouts. Thirteen fighters from Lethbridge will be participating, showcasing the local talent and dedication to the sport in the region. Mein praised the Lethbridge commission for being open-minded and supportive of combat sports, allowing them to host groundbreaking events like the first sanctioned Bare Knuckle MMA fight in Canada. This event marks a significant moment for MMA in the country and highlights the progression and acceptance of the sport in new and unique formats. With an exciting card and a historic fight on the horizon, fans and fighters alike are eagerly looking forward to the action that will unfold at Rumble in the Cage.
