LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - Three young MMA athletes from Lubbock are gearing up to represent the United States at the Youth MMA World Championships in Abu Dhabi this summer.
Among them are 14-year-olds John Ramirez and Jayde Sandoval, alongside 17-year-old Malachi Valenzuela.
Training at Different Breed MMA, these fighters have dedicated countless hours to their sport, balancing school and intense training schedules.
Ramirez has been practicing for five years, while Sandoval has two years under her belt. Valenzuela, the most experienced of the group, has represented Team USA twice before.
However, the cost of travel, lodging, and competition feeds is a hurdle the young athletes are working to overcome.
“We are regular people from a small town but we can do big things from a small community. You don’t have to be from these big places to make it,” said Jason Gallegos, head coach at Different Breed MMA.
The three athletes face stiff competition on the wordle stage, carrying the pride of their community with them.
They describe the sport as challenging but rewarding and they are eager to show what they’ve worked so hard for.
“We’re different and probably much braver than other people. It mentally hard to stay on yourself and physically it’s a lot of push,” Sandoval said.
Community members interested in supporting these athletes can contribute through their fundraising campaign here: GoFundMe.
Go Americans!!!
@The_Decimator Tejas
Talented Texicans. Good Luck kids!