Mixed Martial Arts: First mixed martial arts (MMA) competition a success |05 July 2014

On Saturday June 28, the Seychelles Mixed Martial Arts Association (MMAS) organised its first National Submission Grappling Championship at the Roche Caiman Dojo.

The tournament rules were based on standards set by the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and 12 athletes were categorised into three weight classes -- lightweight (65 kg and under); middleweight (80kg and under) and heavyweight (above 80kg).

Because the rules were based on IBJJF standards, it was predominantly the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) techniques which were being showcased.

For those who are unfamiliar with the art, BJJ is a martial art that focuses on grappling (especially ground fighting) and is believed to have been developed in the 1900s by the Gracie family who modified judo and traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu to allow themselves to face larger opponents by using leverage and proper technique.

BJJ practitioners look towards gaining superior positioning so that they may apply the style’s numerous chokes, holds, locks and joint manipulations.

The competition was concluded with a medal and awards ceremony and the results are as follows:

In the lightweight division: 1. Curtis Hoareau, 2. Muhajeed Robert, 3. Nicholas Marie.

In the middleweight division: 1.RaoniMorozetti, 2. Scott Morin, 3. Calix Lavigne

In the heavyweight division: 1. Adrian Nanty, 2. Wavel Woodcock, 3. Rahim Hypolite.

The association also presented two awards whereby spectators, officials and fellow athletes were able to vote for the winners. Raoni Morozetti was voted Fighter of the Day while the other award, Submission of the Day was awarded to Adrian Nanty. Both fighters received a trophy for their efforts.

When asked what the win meant for him, Brazilian born Raoni had this to say: “This competition was very special for me, by virtue of my high level opponents in addition to the big responsibility of bringing the name of my team in Brazil overseas. However, right now what is most important to me is to see the sport grow in Seychelles. We will continue training here and working hard and hopefully we will be able to bring in my instructor from Brazil (Sensei Ian Muffo) who is looking forward to sharing his knowledge and experience with the Seychellois athletes and to present belts to the best fighters.”

Those who finished first in their categories received a gold medal, R500, 1 month free training at Goals Gym, 1 month free training with MMAS, and a piece of martial arts training equipment of their choice. Athletes who finished second walked away with a silver medal, R300 and 50% off training fee for the next month with MMAS.

Fighters who finished third in their categories received a bronze medal and R150.