CAGE FIGHTING

THE arrival of an extreme combat sport school in Loughton gives residents' the chance to push themselves to the limit and sample the mixed martial arts craze sweeping the international fight game.

Ultimate fighting has become popular as an intense sport which promotes fitness in its exponents through teaching kick boxing, Thai boxing, submission wrestling and Philipino weapons defence.

The sport is popular on television, and continues to expand.

Now, a pair of Cage Rage champions have set up base at the Seed Bed Centre, in Langston Road, and are inviting people to take up the challenge.

Matthew Chapman and James Evans are ready to teach the skills and dispel fears about the punishing nature of Cage Rage.

Chapman said: "The sport has changed a lot since the early days when it was more like bare knuckle fighting.

"There are more rules now, it is professionally run according to professional standards, and the competitors are well protected in the ring.

"It is becoming a very popular sport. There are big shows every weekend."

Chapman acknowledged that some people will still require convincing to try ultimate fighting.

He said: "We have spoken to people and they want to try it out, but they think they are going to get hurt.

"We have a very controlled environment which makes it very safe."

The octagonal cage around the ring's perimeter adds to the dramatic effect, but Matthew said its purpose is to protect. "The bouts are fought in a cage because the problem with a ring is that people fall out of it when they get thrown," he said.

"So the cage is there for the athelete's safety and also the spectators."

He highlighted the benefits the sport offers: "People should try out cage fighting because it is the best fitness workout you can have.

"You are working your entire body and using muscles you did not know you had. You get all the boxing training."

The club is currently running a special offer, where the first month is free for new members.