A Sechelt fighter on tomorrow night's undercard could be in for a world of Payne.
Andrew Payne of the host CVBC is set to make his MMA debut against Jean Allard (0-1) of Phoenix Rising in a 185-pound bout. The 28-year-old Payne hails from Newfoundland and is a Material Technician at 19 Wing Comox.
He has been in the Valley for over a year and loves the West Coast. Payne went to Provincials as a high school wrestler, and after watching a recent AFC MMA event in Victoria told his brother-in-law he wanted to try MMA. His brother-in-law said, "Go for it!"
Payne's talented wrestling skillset fast-tracked his Brazilian Jujitsu and in no time he was tapping out more experienced MMA adversaries. While it's been 12 years since he last competed, he is looking forward to challenging himself in the cage tomorrow night with the support of his military co-workers and superior officers cheering him on.
Payne served a tour in Afghanistan and is prepared to fight for his country anytime and anywhere when called upon. He says he enjoys the professionalism and camaraderie at the Comox Valley Boxing and MMA Club.
"The whole experience has been fantastic, from the training, new friends, work support and ring girl search. I'd like to thank the base for all its support and encouragement."