One night before the best heavyweights on the planet threw down in an epic trilogy fight in a venue devoid of fans at UFC 252, a host of MMA hopefuls strapped on the four-ounce gloves and did battle in front of a crowd in the east of England at an MMA event with a difference.
“Contenders 30: Drive-In” played out in the grounds of Taverham Hall in Norwich, where spectators drove their cars onto the open field and watched the action from their vehicles, honking their horns and cheering from their windows as the action unfolded inside the cage.
Live commentary was accessible via car radios, while a big LED screen ensured fans were afforded a clear view of the action.
The event’s emcee, Ricky Wright, captured a quick video of the setup from inside the cage to show the unusual scene, with dozens of cars surrounding the cage.
“This is so cool!” he posted. “First time MC-ing in front of a crowd for a long time! MMA is back, baby!”
The event, which was also streamed live via online pay-per-view on Fite.tv, featured a 13-fight card that showcased MMA, boxing and K1 kickboxing.
The promotion also featured a tribute to Contenders welterweight champion Jahreau Shepherd, who was stabbed to death at his 30th birthday party in July.
The Londoner captured the promotion’s 170-pound title in February in his last fight before his tragic death, and the promotion and fans in attendance paid their respects.
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Car horns and KOs: U.K. promotion serves up 'drive-in' MMA at Contenders 30