A winning combination for Autism Awareness. Adam & Ayub Mumin interview Professional Welterweight Boxer Sajid Abid

In today's Fighting For Autism blog,  two young and inspiring brothers with a love for boxing have accepted our challenge to interview someone from the sport or martial art that they take part in or that they are passionate about.

Fighting For Autism has been so incredibly fortunate to have some amazing ambassadors and gyms from the boxing community have actively become involved in helping us to raise some much needed autism awareness around the globe but also strive for inclusion and acceptance for those living with autism, at the beginning of the COVID 19 lock down period in the UK some of our junior ambassadors, coach ambassadors and fighter ambassadors were put through an online training session with former W.B.C world champion, Olympic and Commonwealth games medallist Wayne "Pocket Rocket"McCullough,  where Wayne put everyone through their paces and took time to show the medals and belts hes won over his illustrious career and then answered questions at the end, the session featured people of all abilities including some who are on the autistic spectrum, again a massive "Thank You" to Wayne and Cheryl McCullough for being absolutely amazing, everyone had a fantastic time.     

The video of the workout can be found on YouTube at the following link.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=3GdrTyaZom4&feature=youtu.be

Allow us to introduce Adam and Ayub Mumin, to say these two rather amazing young gentlemen are interested in boxing would be an understatement, boxing also strengthens their brotherly bond and allows the traits to shine through that makes them champions in their own right.

Adam is a superstar of the autistic spectrum and despite the challenges he faces with the loving support of his family, his love of boxing and some gentle encouragement from Ayub, Adam is going from strength to strength. 

To say the Mumin family are boxing fans would be an understatement, with both Adam and Ayub's Instagram accounts featuring them practising their boxing skills, but also sharing important messages on initiatives like knives down, hands up which aims to combat knife crime show wisdom beyond their years and the champion mindset they have,  the bond that they have is a amazing to watch.        (Although everyone at Fighting For Autism is a bit envious of Ayub having his picture taken with boxing royalty and three weight world boxing champion Vasiliy Lomachenko)

The rather remarkable Adam Mumin

We asked Adam and Ayub if they would like to interview  professional welterweight boxer and Fighting For Autism Fighter Ambassador Sajid Abid.

 

Sajid Abid is a professional welterweight boxer, who trains and fights out of Gym City Boxing in Derby, United Kingdom with an impressive 9-1-0 professional record to his name, he is renowned for his pace, work rate  and endurance when he competes.

Sajid has been amazing in helping to raise autism awareness and acceptance, Sajid himself offered assistance to young gentleman named Daniel who is on the autistic spectrum, Daniel had been subjected to some pretty nasty bullying that made the attention of the local newspapers where Sajid lives.

Not only did Sajid offer a hand in friendship to Daniel, he also offered him the chance to come and try his hand at boxing, which gave the chance for Daniel to rebuild confidence, get healthy, make new friends as well as learn some boxing skills too.

Adam and Ayub Interview Professional Welterweight Boxer Sajid Abid

  Introducing today's interviewers Ayub and Adam Mumin

 Ayub asks - How long have you been boxing?

" I've been boxing since the age of 12! Only took it seriously when i was 19, turned pro at 20 and now I'm here as a professional with 10 fights at 26 years old".

Ayub asks - What got you into boxing?

"I wasn't ever the most confident or fittest but I loved my sport!my asthma use to play up a lot so i found my ability was hindered. So i decided to go into boxing with the help of my uncle to try battle that and its been the best thing ever for me".

Ayub asks - How much do you train?

"I train twice a day. Morning strength and condition and evening boxing work followed by a run".

 Sajid Abid in competition

Adam asks - Whats your favourite punch in boxing?

"My fave punch has to be a right uppercut, love the feeling when you catch a sweet connection"!

Adam asks- Who is your favourite boxer?

"My fave boxer is Mohammed Ali. The man, the legend, the greatest"!

Adam asks- What dream fight would you like to see?

"My dream fight would be to watch Goku fight Superman, I love my anime and superheros haha! But boxing wise... being able to watch any of Mohammed Ali's fight live would be a dream."

On behalf of everyone at Fighting For Autism, we wanted to say a massive "Thank You" to Sajid  for taking part in this interview and also to Adam and Ayub Mumin and their family.

You can follow Sajid on his Instagram account at  www.Instagram.com/sajidabid 

If you would like to share a positive story from the autistic spectrum, or perhaps you'd like to find out more about autism, please get in touch  at www.fightingforautismeurope.org.

#DareToBeDifferent #ShineThroughTheSpectrum #AutismAwarenessAndAcceptance

Awaken the Earthquake- An interview with Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coach and competitor Sean Davitt, by Junior Ambassador Evan "The Earthquake" Stojanov

Today's blog interview has been carried out by Junior ambassador Evan "The Earthquake"Stojanov.

Evan is a superstar of the autistic spectrum who is thriving through the martial art Judo. Evan trains with Williamsburg Judo in VA, USA under the instruction of Pete Mantel who has struck up an amazing friendship with Evan. 

                                                                                                                     

Evan has also been assisting Fighting For Autism in raising autism awareness and our fight for acceptance and inclusion by highlighting positive stories from the autistic spectrum and inspiring others to try something new, maintain a healthy lifestyle and make long lasting friendships. Evan has been training with Williamsburg Judo for nearly 3 years and his moniker "The Earthquake" comes from Evan's other passion and that is seismology - the study of earthquakes.

What is Judo?

Judo  (柔道) is a Japanese martial art that derives from traditional Ju Jitsu, created by Jigoro Kano in 1882,  Judo became a recognised sport 1910 and was adopted as a part of Japan’s educational system the following year, in 1964 Judo became an Olympic sport. 

Judo objectives are to either throw or take down an opponent to the ground, immobilise or otherwise subdue an opponent with a pin, or force an opponent to submit with a joint lock or a choke.                Judo translated means "Gentle Way",  Judo is an activity undertaken worldwide and  has millions of practitioners (Judoka),  famous Judoka include Ronda Rousey, Kayla Harrison, Chuck Norris, Theodore Rooselvelt, Vladimir Putin and so many more.                                                                                                                          

Evan with some of the Team USA Judo Squad

Autism and Judo

Over recent years numerous studies have carried out and highlighted the positive outcomes for those on the autistic spectrum who have trained in a martial art.

Please see below a link to a study carried out by University College Florida 

https://www.ucf.edu/news/ucf-study-judo-may-help-health-social-interaction-of-children-diagnosed-with-autism-spectrum-disorder/

               Evan with his Fighting For Autism Patch that will placed on his Judogi (uniform)

Evan was asked if he would like to interview a martial artist, with little hesitation he chose to interview Judoka and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner and coach Sean Davitt.                                                        Sean is also a Fighting For Autism Coach Ambassador.

Sean who is based in Wexford, Ireland is an accomplished competitor and coach both in Judo and  Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Sean along with James Mulroy of Judo Assist Ireland also dedicate their time and expertise to the promotion of and development of inclusive Judo both nationally and internationally, Judo Assist have worked tirelessly in seeing children and adults with additional needs  become involved in Judo, helping them to get fit, make friends and importantly have fun. 

                                         Sean performing a judo technique on an opponent. 
 

Sean Davitt is Interviewed by Evan "The Earthquake" Stojanov

                                                                                                                                                          

Evan asks.

Who is the best fighter with autism you have trained?

Sean- " I have trained many many competitors with autism, not everyone who trains Judo or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu wants to be a fighter, so I train people to be their best selves. Anyone who gives their all on the mats is a champion to me".  

Evan asks.

How much Jiu Jitsu and Judo should I practice each week?

Sean- " I would say that it depends on how much is available to you, when i first started I was training twice a week, at one point I I trained eleven sessions a week. Now I train two to three times a week, I suggest that you try to train two to three times a week if you can, remember there are more things to enjoy in life than martial arts, but its a great place to start".

Evan asks.

What do you think I should practice most?  

Sean- " I would suggest practising the basics. without a solid foundation you can't master the more advanced techniques, I dedicate a lot of my own training to the basic movements and transitions both standing and on the mats". 

Evan asks.

What is the best exercise for Judo?

Sean- " I suggest the best exercise for Judo is simply doing Judo. This could be working on footwork, practising the techniques in your mind or on the mat, its all awesome and will help you massively".

Evan asks.

What is your favourite throw and pin? 

Sean- "Throw : Harai Goshi or Ura Nage                                                                                                                   Pin : Kese Gatame or Kata Gatame".

Evan asks.

What throw is best for tall people?

Sean- " I would suggest Osoto-Gari , Uchi-Mata, Sumi Go or Ko-Soto-Gari".

And finally Sean wanted to pass on a message to Evan..........

We would like to thank both Evan and Sean for an amazing interview.

if you would like ot share a positive story from the spectrum please get in touch we can be found on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or our website www.fightingforautismeurope.org 

Live like a Lion. An interview with B.K.B British Champion and World Title Contender Daniel "Lionheart" Lerwell by Reese Bailey

 This edition of the Fighting For Autism Blog features the amazing story of  a champion in the making named  Reese "Cottonmouth" Bailey who is a young gentleman who lives with autism who has captured the hearts and imagination of some of combat sports finest from around the world courtesy of his superstar mum Kari. 

Kari,  had reached out via social media and the post was shared by UFC Mixed Martial Artist and owner of Miller Martial Arts, Cole Miller, and with the wonders of modern technology and a nudge from Mr Miller,  Kari's request to get some birthday greetings for Reese reached people from around the globe.                                                                                                                                         

Kari has managed to get video messages from fighters around the world to try and make Reese's  14th birthday as special as possible, seeing some of the love and support this young gentleman has received has been astonishing to say the very least, birthday greetings from the Voice of the Octagon- Bruce Buffer, UFC President- Dana White and UFC Heavyweight Champion- Stipe Miocic to name but a few of the people who have stepped forward to send some Birthday greetings in Reese's direction.

Reese like many other youngsters around the world, has also done us the honour of becoming a Fighting For Autism Junior Ambassador to help us raise as much autism awareness as possible but also drive for acceptance and inclusion for those living with autism.

Reese's first assignment has been to conduct an interview with one of the Fighting For Autism Fighter Ambassadors, these ambassadors are elite athletes from the combat sports world who have been helping us to raise some much needed Autism Awareness, we asked Reese to carry out an interview with current British B.K.B Bare-knuckle Boxing champion and World Title Contender                              Daniel "Lionheart" Lerwell.

Daniel "Lionheart" Lerwell is also the proud Dad to Theo who is a superstar of the autistic spectrum, an accomplished martial artist with a black belt 1st Dan in Judo, who has competed in Mixed Martial Arts, but has found major success in B.K.B (Bare-Knuckle Boxing) which has seen him gain the British championship belt  and also sees him in the position to challenge for a world title. Daniel has been absolutely amazing in raising autism awareness and often talks about autism in the numerous interviews he has taken part in, he also proudly wears a Fighting For Autism Cap with his son Theo's name on it and in Theo's favourite colours Grey and Blue, saying that Daniel has helped raised the message of autism awareness and acceptance would be an understatement.   

Daniel pictured raising some much needed Autism Awareness with his superstar son Theo

  

When Daniel found out about Reese's story, he was in Abu Dhabi as one of the corner-men for UFC fighter John Phillips, he immediately set out to get some of mixed martial arts finest to send over some birthday greetings to Reese.

Daniel managed to get Birthday greetings from U.F.C rising star Jack Shore and UFC legend Matt Serra, with Matt offering the amazing gesture of a free Jiu Jitsu class with Matt, if Reese is ever in New York City. 

Daniel "Lionheart" Lerwell competing in BKB

                               

Reese's interview with  Daniel "Lionheart" Lerwell

1.) What is the favourite match that you've been in?

"My favourite match up that I have been in , it has to be my fight with a guy named C.J Mills in B.K.B (Bare-knuckle boxing) , I was a huge underdog going into the fight and every man and his dog were saying I wasn't  going to win the fight,. but I went in there and won the fight by a huge knockout  and C.J Mills was fine after it and a very humble guy in defeat" .

2) How do you withstand the pain of getting hit during the fight?

" Ha ha this is a good question,   if any fighter tells you they don't feel the pain , then its a lie ! When you are fighting you have adrenaline pumping through you and that helps you not take any notice of the pain , but when that wheres off after the fight then you feel the pain .... so yes I do feel the pain and when fighting I try and ignore it as much as possible and I leave adrenaline kick in".

3) What are your weight cut techniques?

" I don't cut much weight as I have the same day weigh ins , but this i find is better and more healthy for fighters as you can lose the weight gradually in training camp and feel strong going into the fight instead of depleted.  Most of the time I up my cardio and eat cleaner" .

4) Who is the hardest opponent that you have ever fought (doesn't matter if you won or lost)?

 "Hardest opponent to date that I fought has to be Ricky Nelder in B.K.B (Bare-knuckle boxing) , i could feel that my shots were catching him but he still walked forward with out hesitation,  the man is a real life rocky balboa and as tough as nails !!"

5) What's the hardest you've been hit?

"The hardest iv been hit is without a doubt a no brainer , John Phillips when we spar we go pretty hard now and again and even with 16 ounce gloves on he his the hardest puncher I have ever felt . So no one comes close to John . It feels like you getting hit with a brick lol" 

"Thank you for my question's Reese , I hope you liked the videos that I sent you i just wish the circumstances were different in Abu Dhabi so I could of got a lot more for you .But don't forget if you are ever in New York pop in to Matt Serra's gym for free Jiu Jitsu lessons . I hope you had a lovely birthday and I wanted to thank you for inspiring me on to fight again,  my son is high on the spectrum and without all you warriors I wouldn't be fighting now, so thank you and everyone else so much.

 Keep on to your dreams and just remember nothing is impossible, big love to you all .   P.S send me size of t shirt you are and ill get one of my very own walk out T- shirts over to you" 

Dan Lerwell
(Lionheart)

Whilst over in Abu Dhabi, Daniel asked UFC Hall of Famer, Matt Serra if he could send Reese over a birthday greeting, along with up and coming UFC Fighter from Wales  Jack Shore .

We also managed to get Birthday video messages from and Fighting For Autism Ambassador   Referee Bobby Wombatcher and hearing upon Reese's ambition to be a mixed martial artist doctor and that his favourite subject at school is Maths, we reached out to British Mixed Marital Artist ,Rosi " The Surgeon" Sexton , who aside from having a magificent Mixed Martial Arts career, is a mathematician,osteopath, sports therapist, writer, musician and politician, Rosi also sent Birthday greetings to Reese as well.

Reese "The Cottonmouth" Bailey 

On behalf of everyone at Fighting For Autism, we wanted to say a huge "Thank You"  to Daniel "The Lionheart " Lerwell for being interviewed  

Please give Daniel a follow on Instagram at www.instagram.com/bkblerwell

And to everyone who went the extra mile to raise a smile for Reese on his Birthday with the  amazing birthday greetings 

And finally Reese "Cottonmouth" Bailey Thank you for carrying out an awesome interview #DareToBeDifferent and #ShineThroughTheSpectrum

Reese your story has reached people around the world , with the support of your loving family and a bit of hard work you will become a champion in whatever you choose, aim for the stars .

And finally from everyone at Fighting For Autism We wanted to say

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REESE

If you are interested in helping us raise Autism Awareness or would like information about autism, please get in touch our website is www.fightingforautismeurope.org or we can be reached via social media  

www.facebook.com/fightingforautism

www.twitter.com/fightforautism

www.instagram.com/fightforautism

Standing on the shoulders of giants. An interview with Professional Heavyweight Mixed Martial Artist Neil "Goliath" Grove

Neil "Goliath" Grove is a professional heavyweight mixed martial artist who has competed in some  of the worlds premier mixed martial art organisations.
Originally from South Africa, Neil moved to London , England in 1996 and began martial arts training in 2000 receiving his black belt in Goju Ryu in 2005, Neil has also trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu where he has attained a brown belt as well as being trained by Steve Gladstone in Muay Thai since 2008 .

Neil's professional  mixed martial arts career began in 2006  where Neil went on to win the heavyweight championship with Ultimate Challenge Mixed Martial Arts (UCMMA) in 2008 and the interim heavyweight championship with Ultimate Challenge Mixed Martial Arts (UCMMA) in 2012, as well as competing for the Bellator Mixed Martial Arts Heavyweight title in 2010, Neil has also fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Fighting For Autism asked some of our Junior Ambassadors and Coach Ambassadors if they had any questions for Neil.

Please carry on reading to see the questions and Neil's replies.


Junior Ambassador, Lorcan Lacey  asked: You have trained in multiple martial arts, which ones are essential to get to the top in Mixed Martial Arts competition.
"Hey Lorcan!
I trained in Goju Ryu. It’s an old Okinawan style karate. It’s full contact and all round with striking, submissions and throws... it gave me a great foundation in all round fighting. 
I love striking, and my training in Muay Thai helped too!"

Junior Ambassador,  Leo Curtis asked: What advice would you give on nutrition and what does your daily food diary look like and do you follow a strict food plan?
"Leo, calorie counting is key! I follow eating a healthy and balanced diet of home cooked food. I also use supplements. Herbalife Nutrition shakes as it helps cut my calories".  

Junior Ambassador Adam Mumin asked: What is your favourite food to eat?
"Adam, I love red meat, but stay away from it when I’m cutting weight!! (And cheesecake!😂😂) 
If I go out it’s Wagamama or Nandos!!"

Junior Ambassador Ethan Foreman asked: What fight did you like the most, and what is your greatest achievement?
"Ethan, my fight versus Zak Jenson in Bellator! 
My greatest achievement, is my kids! I’ve a boy of 12, his name is Ethan too! And a little girl, 8 years old, Calesi". 

Voices For The Voiceless Ambassador Archie Blakemore asked: Do you get nervous before an event, because he gets very nervous before practice and wants to know if fighters feel the same?
"Archie, it’s natural to get nervous before a fight! Anyone who says they don’t get nervous is lying! It is however how you channel those nerves that matter! Believe in yourself. See yourself winning and the rest will fall in place!"

Junior Ambassador Maximus Jolly asked:
1.What have been your favourite striking combinations to use in competition?
2.What is your favourite grappling/submission technique?
3.How do you celebrate after every victory?
"Maximus, 
1. Jab, cross thigh kick! 
2. Rear naked choke
3. I jump and sit on the edge of the fence/ wall in the cage!"

Junior Ambassador Tonio Quiroz asked: Who has been your toughest opponent?
"Tonio, Stav Economu... because he is also a close friend!"

Coach Ambassador Martin Ridley asked: How different do you think your life would have been if you started training martial arts at school?
"Martin, I wish I had, I started karate at 29 years of age and lived it! 
I think by starting earlier, your ability only improves with age. But starting late, getting slower is a problem. And recovery takes longer!
Only since I’ve done martial arts, have I learnt to ‘complete/ finish’ what I’ve started. It takes discipline. I was a wild child. Came from a broken home, so discipline was an issue...
Saying that, my mum and eventually my step dad did a fantastic job raising me".

We would like to say a massive Thank You to Neil "Goliath" Grove for taking part in this interview, you can follow Neil on Twitter www.twitter.com/goliathgrove or on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/goliathgrove

Todays blog is dedicated to the memory of our friend  Tony "Pillagius" Pillage.

Fighting For Autism- Heart Of A Champion

What defines a Champion?

 

Is it the belt around their waist?
Or the trophy that held above the head?
Or does it run deeper than that?
Fighting For Autism  have been so incredibly lucky and proud to have so many wonderful Ambassadors from across the globe, whose kindness, support  and willingness to assist in raising Autism Awareness has been heart-warming and overwhelming, truly making a difference, and it's with immense pride we hope to bring the stories of these everyday heroes and champions to you.

In the past few years we have seen top level athletes from the martial arts and boxing communities, alongside clubs, coaches and youngsters in the junior ambassador programme that has started to see some the autism community but also from further afield too.

 

We are seeing a positive upturn in autism awareness and autism friendly initiatives, this could never be done without the support of some truly amazing people and for that we wanted to say how eternally thankful we are and that your support truly does mean the world to us.

 

Why is it so important?

 

The success stories aren't limited, there are more out there.

 



Unleashing the Swarm. An Interview with Linton Vassell by Fighting For Autism Junior Ambassador Max Jolly

During Autism Awareness Month we asked some of our Junior Ambassadors to interview some if the amazing Fighter Ambassadors who have raised their hand to help us raise Autism Awareness, a large percentage of our Junior Ambassadors are champions in the making who are on the autistic spectrum themselves and are not only helping to raise awareness, but by sharing their success stories are encouraging others to take up something new, learn new skills or perhaps make a new friend.

In todays blog Junior Ambassador  Maximus "Prime" Jolly  interviewed Professional Mixed Martial Artist, and Bellator Fighter Linton "The Swarm" Vassell.
Linton whom is due to compete later this month at Wembley Arena in the UK, so is relishing the chance to compete in front of a home crowd on behalf of all us at Fighting For Autism we wanted to send our very best to Linton and also a massive thank you as well for all that he does for the autism community.

 

Bellator Light Heavyweight Fighter

Linton "The Swarm" Vassell

 

Maximus himself is a rising star this young gentleman is not just competing in Judo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling, he has worked incredibly hard and has won numerous competitions  he is truly shining, being on the spectrum himself, Maximus is inspiring other youngsters on the spectrum to shine through it.

 

Fighting For Autism Junior Ambassador

Maximus " Prime" Jolly in grappling competition

 

We have a special guest here currently and his name is Linton Vassell a Bellator Mixed Martial Arts fighter with a professional record of 18-6.

1) Every MMA fighter has their own training regimen and I’m interested in what your is?
Hello Max. My training is
Monday

10:30 MMA drills and live Grappling

7:30 H Kickboxing Drills and Bag and Pad work

Tuesday

10:30 MMA live sparring

5:00 Strength and Conditioning

Wednesday

10:30 Live Wrestling

Thursday

10:30 Live Sparring

7:30 H Kickboxing Drills

Friday

10:30 No Gi Grappling Drills and Live

5:00 Sprints

Saturday

11:30 Pad work

Sunday

DAY OF REST



2) Who are your coaches in each martial art that you train in, such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing etcetera?
H Kickboxing - Henri Hooft & Sean Soriano

Wrestling - Greg Jones & Kami Barzini

No Gi Jiu Jitsu - Mario Sperry

Strength & Conditioning - Corey Peacock

3) How do you celebrate after you win a fight and how do you push your victories aside and focus on the next?
A week in Vegas, and then back to work a week or maybe two later.


4) Many of your fights, you able to just take people down with ease without a clinch?
For me that’s just the way I fight, I saw an opening so I shot for the take down, drive hard and explosive.

5) What motivates you to train the way you do today and what would you say about your successes in the past?
The will to win, I love this sport, and losing to Bader just made that fire burn worse than before. I feel like I have come along way and beat two former World Champions, but I’m still not happy, I know I’m destined to be a World Champion.

6) When you first started training what martial art did you start with or did you do it all in one piece?
I just started with no experience and enjoyed it at a local Mixed Martial Arts club, before you knew it I was getting ready for my first fight 6 months later.


7) Experiencing fighting different people do you ever look up your opponent to try to get info about them so that you can have an advantage on them when you fight that person?
Of course, I’m always watch and sizing up my division, as I know I’m going to be fighting them sooner or later.


8) Besides fighting in Bellator do you ever compete in separate martial arts tournaments like North American Grappling Association, Newbreed, IBJJF, or wrestling tournaments?
I have competed in the Naga and Kelos Grappling tournaments winning gold in both.

 

9) On a scale of 1-10 how hard do you thing you punch? Do you enjoy the impact of your hands when you do ground-n-pound how your fists vibrate after each land?
I have no clue but I’m going to guess pretty dam hard, as I have a number of TKO victories. I guess I do as I keep getting back in there ha ha.


10) What is your advice if someone asks you a question on how to be a champion, could you tell us in your words?
I get this question a lot, first you really do need to find a good gym that have the right coaches, and team mates to help push you, this isn’t a sport where you can only give 50% you need to give it your all, turn up everyday and put in the work, and work on all types of disciplines, Boxing, Kickboxing, Grapping, because you never know where the fight is going to go. And yes it’s going to be tough I’m ain’t going to lie, you will feel like quitting and you will feel like crying, but the pain won’t last forever but being a quitter will.

11) One more question? Can you tell us why you work with Fighting for Autism?
Well, I was approached by Paulieboy a good few years ago asking if I would like to help and be a ambassador, I didn’t have to think twice, I thought if I can even help or even make the smallest impact on someone’s life, I want to be a part of it, and help spread the word, and even put a smile on someone’s little face.

Linton wearing his custom Fighting For Autism Cap

 

We wanted to say a huge thank you to both Linton and Maximus for taking time out to carry an excellent interview

 

We would also like to say a humungous Congratulations to Junior Ambassador's

Rhys McCole and Maddie Mitchell.

 

 

Rhys and Maddie won their respective categories at the Community Champion awards this week in Scotland.

Rhys and Maddie who are facing adversities of their own are thriving through their respective sports

Rhys (Boxing)  and Maddie (Muay Thai).

The inspirational young warriors are inspiring others to #DareToBeDifferent and

 #ShineThroughTheSpectrum encouraging them to try something new, learn a new skill or make a new friend.

On behalf of everyone at #FightingForAutism We wanted to say Congratulation's and Thank You to both of these Junior Ambassadors for going the extra mile to raise a smile and being positive role models.

Fighting For Autism- Jamahl Golland interviews Professional Mixed Martial Artist Liam McGeary

Fighting For Autism has been so incredibly fortunate to have some outstanding athletes from around the world who have stepped up to be positive role models and help raise some much needed autism awareness, as well as inspire a generation coming forward of youngsters who are shining through the autistic spectrum and encouraging others to do the same.

 

 

 Professional mixed martial artist and former Bellator Champion Liam McGeary has been outstanding in helping us to raise Autism Awareness on both sides of the pond, both in the USA where he resides and trains and in the UK where he is he from., encouraging youngsters to be inspirations in there own right.

We asked Liam if he could do an interview with one of his superfans, Fighting For Autism Junior Ambassador Jamahl Golland. 

 

 

 

 

Jamahl:
I’m very honoured to have this opportunity to interview Mr Liam McGeary. I was lucky enough to catch up with Mr McGeary after Bellator 158 in July 2016 at the O2 arena and had my photo taken with him, which was awesome. My first question to Mr McGeary is how did you get started in Martial Arts, and how old were you?

 

Liam: Hey Jamahl,

 I remember meeting you at the show, and the picture! 

 I first got into martial arts properly when I was about 27 years old in  January 2009 at Gracie Barra in the Channel Islands under Rob Staples  who is a Braulio Estima trained black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

I had messed about a little before that here and there but this was when I took it serious.

I boxed when I was in my teens, around 15 maybe and wasn't very good and lost my fights, but I had potential lol.

 

Jamahl:

What styles of Martial Arts have you studied?

 

Liam: I train in most the arts now, wrestling, jiu jitsu, boxing, kickboxing. Have a dabble with judo but for mma, not in the gi.

 

Jamahl: Who were your heroes inside and outside of Martial Arts when you were growing up?

 

 Liam: My heroes... well I was always a fan of B.A Baraccus from the A-team, but as for heroes... I think just my Dad and Grandad to be honest with you.

 

 

Jamahl: I Love to train and have done so from a very young age and near tournament time my training gets much harder. Could you please tell me a little about what a pre - fight training camp looks like for you?

 

Liam: Training camp, it sucks!! It gets really hard about 6 weeks out and then start to push. You have to get yourself in shape for the fight camp starts because its go. But I train every day anyway so makes no odds really, always have to keep in shape or near good shape.

I'll train 2 x a day. Morning and evening, used to do 3-4 sessions but  gettin too old for all that carry on. I'll train all aspects of the sport through our the week 6 days a week and with weight training thrown in there... ok so maybe still do the odd 3 day sessions a week.

 

Jamahl: You have a very exciting fighting style that must require a lot of energy.

My Dad is always talking to me about nutrition. What does your nutrition regime look like during hard training camps?

 

Liam: Thank you, yeah it does take up a lot of energy, but I have plenty of that, I like to keep busy, I don't like to stay still in those boring fights or in life either. I love a good old punch up.

I don't like to lose.

 

Jamahl: What aspects of training/competing do you like and dislike?

 

Liam: I love to learn new things and piece them together and put them into my game. I like to train and fight so it's all good to me, just that losing stinks.

 

Jamahl: Who has been your toughest opponent so far?

 

Liam: Toughest opponent has to be the last one, Nemkov.

That kid was made from steel! I broke my bones hitting him lol.

 

Jamahl: Who would you most like to fight?

 

Liam: I'd actually like to fight the current champion for Bellator. Belt or no belt, I reckon that would be a good fight.

 

Jamahl: You have been Bellator World Champion which is an amazing achievement. What other dreams and ambitions do you have in Martial Arts that you would love to achieve?

 

Liam: I've got to get back to work though for that to happen. Have to pick myself back up again.

There's not much else you can win in Mixed Martial Arts other than a world title, I could win it back.

I want to win a world title in Jiu Jitsu now too.

 

Jamahl: What else do you enjoy doing outside of training and competing?

 

Liam: I love to travel, go to the movies, hang out on the beach, fly kites, gunna start kite surfing too. Just building up for that one hahah there a few sharks out where I am at the moment.

And training ha-ha.

 

Jamahl: My Dad has known MVP since he was 13 years old and seen his career develop. In your fights I see you have very fast, accurate and strong punches. Would you ever consider doing a cross over to boxing like Michael "Venom" Page?

 

Liam: Yeah I'd defo give it a thought for sure. I do love to box.

 

 

Liam and former undisputed Heavyweight Boxing Champion Lennox Lewis

 

Jamahl: Who is your favourite all time Martial Artist? Plus your favourite MMA fighter?

Liam: My favourite MMA fighters are the Diaz brothers.

 

 Jamahl: Do you teach Martial Arts or ever guest teach at seminars?

 

Liam:Yeah, I've been busy last few months getting schools and classes

I teach MMA over in Jersey in the Channel Islands and I'm going to be opening up a school in Spain. So keep eyes and ears open for that.

Also putting together and event for  some Ultimate White Collar fight nights, so that's getting put together now as we speak.

I will be available for seminars and classes in Europe later this year.

 

 

Liam popped in to Immortal 365 Martial Arts Academy to meet up and give some encouragement to some inspirational youngsters (Junior Ambassador Hannah Roberts and Aaron Lister)

and also talk to an MMA class that was going on during his visit. 

 

 

Jamahl: Where do you see yourself in 10 years time, what would you most like to be doing in your

future?

 

Liam: See myself in 10 years... on a beach somewhere with my son running around and exploring where ever we are living at that time

 

Jamahl: I was very excited to see that you recently became an Ambassador for fighting for Autism. I myself have Autism and ADHD. Is this a cause that is very close to you personally and how did you becoming an Ambassador come about?

 

Liam: I have some really close friends and family of mines children are autistic, so hold it close to myself too but I'm not sure how it came about, I was asked and I jumped at the chance to help out.

 

Liam has been raising Autism Awareness in the USA too along with Junior Ambassador Parker Biedenkapp #Team Parker.

Liam has become part of Parkers family and vice versa too. 

 

 

Jamahl: Mr McGeary, a huge thank you for taking time out to hear my questions, this really is a genuine honour for me. My final question is purely for me…could I please have a signed photo?

 

Liam: Haha yeah of course mate, I'll get one out to you, but when I get back home in July I'll be able too.
Like I say mate, bit of a crazy time Haha.
Hey I heard about your acceptance speech to for the award. Massive congratulations to you too my mate! Keep up the good work.

 

 

 

 On behalf of everyone at Fighting For Autism, we wanted to say a massive Thank You to Liam McGeary for taking the time to be interviewed, as well as for everything he does to make a difference for others, and also a humongous congratulations on the birth of their baby boy who was born a few weeks ago as well.

 

 

And also a very special Thank you to Jamahl Golland, a young gentleman whose story is beyond inspiring, in and outside of competition, Fighting For Autism's Paul was there to see Jamahl's acceptance speech at the Warriors Assemble Awards a few months ago and was amazed at how this superstar in the making is not only facing his own challenges but encouraging others to do the same as well, please have a read of Jamahl's story below.

 

Jamahl was the recipient of an award at this years British Marital Arts Awards

 

 

 

 

Jamahl’s Journey so far…

Jamahl aged 18 months used to cry to be let outside to join his father hitting the punchbag at the bottom of the garden. Even at such a young age he used to swing his leg so high with a huge grin on his face.

At aged 3, Jamahl was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and later at aged 5 with ADHD and Dyspraxia.

At age 4 Jamahl began training on the Little Dragons programme at his Dad’s Martial Arts Academy. It took 17 occasions to get Jamahl to be able to complete a full class due to his ASD related anxiety issues, however once this was overcome he became a model student. At age 6 he was helping encourage 4 year olds to join in, despite being a young child in special needs education himself.

At age 8 Jamahl took part in his first ever Martial Arts tournament. His anxiety levels were so very high that he nearly didn’t take part. However, once the contests began it was obvious that there was a little magic there as he narrowly defeated a 13 year old en route to the final which he then won comfortably.

At age 10 in only his 2^nd tournament ever, Jamahl won the MWTA British Taekwondo Championships in the continuous division, whilst also winning sliver in points.

At age 11 and after 7 years of hard training, Jamahl atchieved his full black belt in December 2016, then announcing “I want to be World Champion next year”.

In 2017 Jamahl knuckled down to serious training and competing. In May 2017at the MWTA British Taekwondo Championships, Jamahl won both the continuous and points fighting categories at a canter within half an hour of each other, all against high class black belt competitors.

Jamahl then fought at the WKU German open in June 2017 demolishing a very high calibre field on the way to winning the continuous title. Jamahl narrowly lost out in the semi final of points on sudden death to the eventual winner.

Jamahl then attended the WKU World Kickboxing Championships in Kilarney, Ireland in August 2017. Jamahl was in 2 hugely attended categories containing talented and hungry fighters from around the world. On day 3 Jamahl fought in the points category, beating a very tough Lebanese number 1 by 8 points to 4. Jamahl was then warmed up and in full flight as he fought the German number 1 and 3 times European Taekwondo champion. This was a fight that had people flocking around the matts to watch. However, in a display from Jamahl that I’d never seen before or since, he defeated his opponent 11-0 in only 53 seconds to secure his place in the final. The final was a close fought contest but a nervous Jamahl won by 2 points to secure his first ever World Title.

In the continuous category Jamahl fought the Lebanese number 1, then number 2 on the way to the final. Jamahl had unanimous victories all the way through and then fought a very game Welsh opponent in the final. Jamahl had no nerves at all in this bout and totally outclassed his opponent pulling out his best continuous performance to win his second Gold medal, again by unanimous decision.

Jamahl also had a go at Karate Kumite which he had never done before…he won a silver medal!

In October 2017 Jamahl then attended the prestigious Warriors Assemble, winning an award for his outstanding achievements.

To top off an amazing 2017, Jamahl then won the WKU England title in points in October. Jamahl was not at his best on the day and had to dig very deep but simply refused to lose. He had been struggling with a stomach bug and hence had to pull out of the continuous category.

Jamahl is proud to represent Spartan Martial Arts, his sponsor and has received Love and kindness from so many quarters since his story has been told.

Jamahl is currently growing like a bush fire which has re-sparked quite a few Dyspraxic traits, especially around his core. Hence Jamahl is having a transition training year in 2018 with a view to returning to competition in 2019.