It has been a long time coming, but sanctioned mixed martial arts are back in Vernon.
Okanagan Fighting Championship (OFC) is hosting its first ever event, set to rumble into the Vernon Curling Club on Saturday, July 6.
Unity MMA owner and coach Raja Kler is putting the finishing touches on the event, where he hopes it spawns to more than just a one-off.
"The biggest thing about this is that it is going to be consistent," said Kler. "We want to do events two times a year and we are going to try and build a local market to showcase the local fighters."
The 18-fight card will feature dozens of Okanagan fighters, including the headliner, Rylie 'Coyote' Marchand.
"It is a huge accomplishment for me, personally," said Marchand. "But there are so many people behind the scenes where I am just so glad that they will be able to watch in person.
"When it comes to nerves, all of my friends and family will be there, so no matter what, they are there for me."
Kler noted that the sport may sound intimidating for many, but he wants those who are intrigued to keep an open mind.
"The first barrier to get into the sport is the intimidation factor," admits Kler. "They see what's on TV, the UFC, which is the drastic, highest level of the sport. That's not realistic as MMA is really for everybody."
Kler noted that the reason he got into the sport was as a way to stay fit and once they get an athlete into the door, they realize the kind of positive atmosphere that's inside.
"We aren't thugs or anything like that, we are normal and even on the nerdy side of things. The sport is kind of based off of science, by learning what works and what doesn't."
Marchand, whose nickname of 'Coyote' is a play on Looney Tunes' Wile E. Coyote, wants people to come out on Saturday, even if they have never seen a martial arts event before."
"Supporting local athletes is the biggest thing, this is a great opportunity for us, so it would mean the world to us if you could come out."
For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit showpass.com/ofc-mma-1/, or drop by Unity MMA at 4215 25th Ave.
