MMA fight ready to rumble

It’s been nearly a decade since an MMA sporting event took place in Vernon, and now organizers and athletes are ready to watch people strap on their gloves and get into the ring.

“I am excited, exhausted, I’m probably like six different major feelings at once but I’m excited it’s happening,” said organizer Raja Kler, who was one of about 15 people on site setting up for XFC unbanned at the curling club Friday.

“I haven’t slept in days,” added promoter Saverio Loria, “Just to make sure that we dotted the “I’s”, crossed the “t’s”, the anticipation, it’s exciting.”

Vernon city council rescinded the ban on MMA fighting in May, and since then, the support has been positive.

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As of yesterday, organizers said they have sold well over 600 tickets for the event.

Six local fighters, all students of Kler’s studio, Unity MMA will be heading into the ring.

Kler admits he’s a little nervous for his students, but also proud that they will be able to fight on home soil.

He extends his sincerest gratitude to the city of Vernon and Coun. Kelly Fehr for spearheading the move to rescind the ban on MMA fights.

“Thank-you to Kelly Fehr, I’d like to say a special thanks to him and for the whole city too and I hope everybody from the city, council and the mayor are down to our event.”

The event takes place on Saturday Aug. 24, 2019 and doors open at 6 p.m.