By Adam Dutton
A Leicestershire mixed martial arts event is set to take place in April to raise funds in support of Cancer Research UK.
Ultra Events are organising an MMA charity event set for April 26 at Leicester City FC’s King Power Stadium.
The company runs a series of nationwide events, all with the intention of raising funds for Cancer Research. The company has raised a total of £894,372 nationwide so far, with the total for Leicestershire currently sitting at £18,386.
Mikey O’Connell, 20, is one of the fighters taking part. Mikey, who lives in Loughborough and works in communications, used to compete at a younger age, but had to stop at the age of 16 due to injuries and work commitments. This event will be his first fight in a long while.
Mikey O’ConnellHe said: “I’ve lost both grandparents to cancer, with me recently losing my grandad in November. I will be fighting in memory of both my grandparents.
“I’ve been into mixed martial arts since I was 6. This will be the biggest event I’ve ever done. It’s taking me back to when I used to compete.”
He added: “The company provides 8 weeks of training for you at 1st Legion Fighters gym. When all that’s done, you get an opponent chosen for you, matched on your body type and skill.
“Every family at some stage will be affected by cancer so help me by donating to find a cure and also help support people dealing with cancer.”
The event is set for April 26 at the King Power Stadium. Anyone looking to help support Mikey or for any information relating to the events should click the links below.
Mikey’s donation page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mikey-Oconnell
The event: https://www.ultra-mma.co.uk/events/leicester/
