Read About It: The Growth of Local MMA

The popularity of mixed martial arts, simply known as MMA, has exploded over the years. UFC fights are more anticipated than heavyweight boxing matches these days (who's the current heavyweight boxing champion anyway?). MMA has really taken off in the Charlotte area, and I was surprised to learn of its growth particularly in the Lake Norman area. You can read about it in the story I wrote, "Tough Enough," for the May issue of Lake Norman Magazine.

I talked to trainers and fighters at The Rock MMA & Fitness Center in Huntersville, the Gracie Jiu Jitsu LKN Academy in Mooresville, and Crossface MMA in Cornelius. And, as you might know, Team R.O.C. in Harrisburg, just north of UNC Charlotte's campus, has produced two UFC fighters, Rodney "Sho Nuff" Wallace and Jordan Rinaldi. But the growth of MMA locally is being spurred largely by people who want to learn the techniques to stay physically fit; not to get kicked and punched in the face.

Rock at the Dock 5
You can watch MMA fighters up close at Rock at the Dock 5, taking place Saturday, May 12 at Queens Landing (1459 River Hwy., Mooresville). It's the fifth installment of the popular fight series put on by Matt Sredzinski, owner of The Rock MMA. About 2,000 fans are expected, and in addition to live cage fights, there'll be music by bands and DJs, food and cash bars, strong man demonstrations, babes in bikinis, and more. Visit www.therockatthedock.com for details.