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Adrenaline powers London MMA boom

This is part three in a three-part series. Read part one and two.

Ever wonder what it takes to be a mixed martial arts fighter?

Try venturing to Adrenaline MMA in London to find out what goes into the making of an Anderson Silva or a Georges St. Pierre.

Despite housing multiple world ranked Ultimate Fighting Championship fighters within its walls, Adrenaline MMA is surprisingly subdued. Tucked neatly behind a strip mall, the large white warehouse that houses Adrenaline and its adjoining apparel vendor, Fight Planet, is neither flashy nor intrusive. You could miss it if you weren’t looking carefully.

Inside is a different story. Most of the floor is covered with wrestling mats, with wall-to-wall mirrors lining one side. A caged octagon, similar to the official UFC version, dominates the gym. There is a boxing ring, rows of heavy bags, speed bags, treadmills and other cardio equipment.

“I think anybody can do mixed martial arts,” Rowan Cunningham, an instructor at Adrenaline, said. “Just like anybody can golf, anybody can bowl. You may not fight, you may not compete, but you can still do it, learn it, acquire a skill set, make friends and get in shape. And have fun. That’s the most important thing.”

Fifteen years ago, Cunningham watched UFC for the first time and knew he was hooked. For over a decade, he has trained full time in martial arts such as jiu-jitsu, boxing and muay-thai. With a 6-3 professional MMA record, Cunningham’s career has seen him fight all across Canada. He has won multiple North American grappling titles and has competed in professional kickboxing bouts as well.

Cunningham’s forte is grappling. Despite its aggressive nature, this aspect of MMA is surprisingly defensive. Good grappling is all about attaining a position that neutralizes your opponent’s ability to hurt you.

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