Fans say they're thrilled by mixed martial arts event at Show Me Center

The University Fight Tour kicked off a 12-city mixed martial arts tournament at the Show Me Center on Saturday, with fighters from some of the largest gyms in the country.

Fans said they were there thrilled with the opportunity to see some big names in the world of professional mixed martial arts and the Ultimate Fighting Championship in Cape Girardeau.

"I love the fighting," said Dwayne Sides of Cape Girardeau. "I've seen it on television and particularly like the martial arts aspect. It is very entertaining and exciting."

Sides said he has been a fan since the early days of UFC televised fights and part of the excitement was watching the types of fighting used in the matches.

"There is not only stand-up martial arts fighting but ground grappling and submission holds, too. There are lots of different styles," he said.

Coltin Cole, right, kicks another fighter Saturday at the Show Me Center. (Melissa Miller)

James Jones of Dexter, Mo., said he has seen mixed martial arts and Ultimate Fighting live before, but it was the first time for his aunt, Linda Kayler. She said her 80-year-old mother got her hooked on the fighting.

"It is so exciting, probably more so live. My mother got me started and I have always wanted to see it live," she said.

One of the things that most excited Jones was the opportunity to get an autograph from one of the tournament's big names, Matt Hughes. Jones said the stars were accessible and that meant a lot to fans.

Even though he did not compete at Saturday's fight, Hughes said he was glad to be there and meet with fans in Cape Girardeau. "I love it here. I like it at SEMO," Hughes said. He said he would often travel to this area while he was in college.

When he was a high school wrestler, Hughes said, he never would have imagined that background and experience would be the basis for a successful career in Ultimate Fighting.

Shannon Buford, marketing director for the Show Me Center, said as far as he knew this was the first time professional mixed martial arts had been in Cape Girardeau. He said being the first stop on a national tour added an extra element to the event.

"It is always exciting to kick off a tour. It is really a unique experience," Buford said.

He said 467 tickets were sold.

The matches at the Show Me Center featured fighters from Team Hughes Hit Squad, Team Couture, America Top Team and Team Quest.

cbartholomew@semissourian.com

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