Local kids train for June 25 cage fight

CAGE FIGHTING AS A SPORT - Two students spar while coach Bob Fish (far left) observes along with other team members. Above (l-r) are coach Bob Fish, Zach Walker, John Dutton, Jacob Philpott, Houston Mellentine, Donny Cooper, Josh Fish, Luke Hnevsa, Kyle Jacobs, Randy Uresti and Bob Fish (aka Little Bob, the coach’s nephew). (TCC Photo by Jeanne Marcello) CHESANING – “A lot of people didn’t know we were up here,” commented Bob Fish, standing in “The Pit,” an upstairs gym over Chesaning’s Full Moon Tanning & Fitness.

Participants train five - six days a week. “That’s what it takes if you go and do these shows,” Fish said, referring to the cage fighting competitions.

Fish has been training local guys for competition fights for about 18 months. During that time, they’ve won six title belts; yep, those monster belts just like on television. Presently, one of the guys, Pat Hook who began his fighting career in “The Pit”, is presently in California training for a chance at a competition in the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). He is presently training with UFC champion Urijah Faber “The California Kid.”

Fish trains young men who want to compete in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts). He explained that he started the training program because kids had been fighting in the local parks, imitating the UFC fights. He started training them in his basement, but they outgrew the space and were able to rent space at Full Moon.

The training rules are posted on the wall. 1) Be on time. 2) No fighting outside the gym. 3) No cell phones. 4) Clean up after yourself. 5) Be respectful. 6) Practice what you preach.

New participants wear protective padding as they start training with Fish. He has trained students of Chesaning High School, one from St. Charles High School, as well as those from Saginaw, Clio, and Owosso. They’ve been competing in the MMA events around the area, including Alma, Midland, and Owosso; as well as Detroit. They’ve even competed against fighters from Canada.

“We have about 150 fans who follow us on a steady basis,” he explained. They’ve even sold about 500 shirts promoting the team.

“It’s a sport,” Fish said, “They train hard.”

Chesaning’s first cage fighting event will be held in Showboat Park as part of the Mexican American Festival on Saturday, June 25. Several of the local guys from The Pit will participate. Coach Fish is hopeful that Pat Hook will return to compete at the event. Ticket prices starting at $20, with VIP seating available as well.