WOMEN’S MMA GETS A REALITY CHECK (Ultimate Women Combat)

Written by Jen Leigh
Tuesday, 23 December 2008




When Elite XC folded back in October, many believed it to be the end of mainstream exposure for women’s MMA. No other mixed martial arts organization boasted a roster that full of female talent, nor gave them the platform on which to shine. There has been much speculation as of late over which organization, if any, would take over where Elite left off. Where would all the fighters go? Where and whom would they now fight? How will they be seen on television? For years I have heard talk about all women MMA reality shows happening, but they never did…until now. And as they say in life, timing is everything



A spectacular all women’s MMA reality show is currently in development for 2009, with plans to begin shooting at an undisclosed, exotic location by early February. “Ultimate Women Combat” will feature #1 ranked Tara LaRosa and U.K. fighting sensation Rosi Sexton as coaches, alongside jiu-jitsu legend Cesar Gracie. Model/actress Joanna Krupa and “Outside The Ring” presenter Marika Taylor will be the show’s hosts. Up to sixteen contestants will live and train together, fighting their way to become the UWC champion, with the final fight taking place back on U.S. soil. Although the format may sound familiar to other MMA reality shows, UWC has no intention of being a carbon copy of shows past. The level of female fighters showing interest in the show range from those with no professional experience, to established well-known fighters. With LaRosa, Gracie, and Sexton signed on, and the possibility of some big names being cast as contestants, this show could easily help propel women’s MMA to new heights.







On December 19th, I attended the U.S. auditions at Bas Rutten’s “Elite MMA Gym” in Thousand Oaks, CA. Eight Los Angeles area based fighters came to vie for a spot on the show. U.K. auditions had already taken place earlier in the month, with approximately twenty hopefuls trying out. There will be either one or two weight classes employed on the show, depending on the number of competitors cast. They will also be split into two teams, most likely based on professional experience. And for the very first time, five-minute rounds will replace the formerly used three-minute rounds found in women’s MMA matches, something the show’s producers are adamant about





The girls warming up for Cesar Gracie:








V. Mariscal, M. Vera, K. Vera, R. Balboa, K. McGray, M. Benavides, S. Camacho, P. Garcia:







Darwin Nercesian and Lyle Howry, whose production company is based out of Los Angeles, have no interest in portraying the fighters as mere sex objects. Unfortunately that is often the case with female-based reality TV. Yes, this is television, and the visual aspect is important, but the focus will be on fighting rather than sex appeal. What you will see is the commitment and drive that female fighters have to succeed in a male dominated sport. The producers’ passion and intent on making the show a true showcase of women’s talent and athletic ability is evident upon speaking with them. Fans themselves, they truly want to see women at the forefront of mixed martial arts, right alongside the men. With major global distribution behind them, they plan to announce which network the show will air on very soon.





Gracie coaching Kate McGray & Michelle Vera:





Martha Benavides displayed some serious kicks:








At Friday’s tryouts, Gracie put the women through grueling drills, while everyone else looked on in amazement. They did everything from cardio and strength exercises, to pad work and sparring. Watching Cesar coach, it is no wonder why he is considered one of the best in the world. Among the women auditioning were Roxy Balboa (below), and Kerry & Michelle Vera. (The UFC’s Brandon Vera’s wife and sister, respectively, who proudly watched and offered support.) Rounding out the fighters were Vanessa Mariscal, Pearl Garcia, Kate McGray, Martha Benavides, and Samantha Camacho. The overall encouragement the fighters gave one another was testament to the camaraderie and respect found in mixed martial arts.


Roxy Balboa, who trains with Josh Barnett:






I also had the pleasure of speaking with Marika Taylor, who was on hand to film interviews with the women trying out. Both long time supporters of women’s MMA, Marika and I had a great time chatting about the importance of a show like this getting mainstream exposure. With a growing list of “who’s who” in MMA signing on for involvement with the show, its potential to reach a wide audience has no boundaries. There will always be naysayers when it comes to women in MMA, but this show will undoubtedly attract both male and female viewers, offering up a never before seen side of what it takes to be a fighter.
As we speak, the final stages of development are being planned out to make this a one of a kind series…and for the women who live and breathe MMA, it’s right on time.

For up to date info:
http://www.cagewarriors.com (U.K. affiliate site)
Photos courtesy of Jen Leigh & Lyle Howry Productions