Tallahassee’s newest mixed martial arts gym, Warriors Path Fighting Systems, offers more than just training for fighters.
The gym will offer free tutoring service to the community, from Kindergarten through 12th grade.
Charles Haskins, head coach and fight promoter of Warriors Path Fighting Systems, is a former mixed martial artist who wants to bring the fighting scene to Tallahassee.
Haskins said there aren’t a lot of fights in Tallahasee for aspiring fighters.
“The amateur scene is not here,” Haskins said. “The fighters will have to go elsewhere to get some competition. So, [by] having fights in their home town the fighters can showcase their talents.”
The fights scheduled for March 18 were called off, because the ringside doctor canceled.
“The fights were going on without a problem, but the doctor canceled and we will postpone the fights for now,” Haskins said.
The fights were scheduled to take place in Florida A&M’s recreation center, with the full support of Warriors Path Fighting Systems.
Haskins said he wanted to give an opportunity to the people who wanted to take a shot at being a professional MMA fighter.
“I am an all-army boxer,” Haskins said. “I went to nationals and MMA isn’t in my background. I just wanted to try it out before I was over the hill and it was too late.”
Haskins retired from MMA with a record of 1-1 and said he doesn’t regret it.
“It was a challenge for me having a boxing background and trying to fight people who just wanted to take me to the ground and wrestle,” Haskins said.
Haskins also runs a tutoring program and gives free fighting lessons to people who volunteer their time to help kids with school.
“I come to get free boxing lessons and all I have to do is help a kid read,” said Joshua Waters, a Florida State University student who tutors after school.
Haskins wants to showcase MMA by offering the public an opportunity to come and watch and possible get involved with fighting.
Johnathon Strickert said he is excited to see MMA action in Tallahassee.
“I am very excited personally,” Strickert said. “I have been involved in martial arts since high school and have been a fan of live tournaments since I was a child.”
(Edited by Reshonda Scott)