Curtis Muldrow Prepares for MMA Debut
Curtis Muldrow is gearing up for his first mixed martial arts match, pacing as he adjusts his gloves.
“I initially wanted to focus on boxing to enhance my striking,” he shared, “but I’m open to MMA, too. It’s exciting.”
Background and Motivation
As a heavyweight, Muldrow is among the largest fighters present, but he hasn’t been in a match for several years. At 40 years old, he works at a concrete company in Tacoma.
“Many of my coworkers think I’ll get knocked out, but I’m determined to prove them wrong,” he said, emphasizing his resolve.
The Environment of The Scrapyard
The Scrapyard, located near Gig Harbor, Washington, offers a unique setting for combat sports. “We pride ourselves on being a legal backyard fighting organization,” said Steve “Fire Chicken” Hagara, donning his iconic American flag sunglasses.
Since its establishment in 2020, The Scrapyard has hosted a variety of combat sports events, aiming for a more relaxed and supportive atmosphere than traditional gyms.
Community Focus
Hagara, recalling his days as an amateur fighter, aimed to create an environment that fosters community spirit rather than rivalry. Inspired by a visit to Streetbeefs Fight Club in Virginia, he envisioned The Scrapyard as a place for building relationships.
Monthly Events and Safety Protocols
The Scrapyard hosts monthly matches, rain or shine, drawing participants from near and far via social media. During events, various fighters also practice in the surrounding area.
Hagara, acting as both organizer and cameraman, ensures safety by matching fighters based on skill and weight, with volunteer referees and medics present at each event.
Personal Experiences
John McLellan, a newcomer from Shoreline who faced Muldrow, wore custom pants featuring his own face to boost his confidence. Despite the pain from the fight, he found camaraderie with Muldrow afterward.
“We shared some good laughs; he’s a great guy,” McLellan said, acknowledging the intensity of Muldrow’s strikes.
The Scrapyard’s Growth
Over the past five years, The Scrapyard has significantly expanded. Hagara noted that during peak summer days, they can host up to 50 fights. Their popularity has soared, boasting over 1.5 million followers on Instagram.
“It’s remarkable to reflect on our journey so far and the positive impact we’ve had on many lives,” Hagara said, highlighting his commitment to the community.
