In MMA, many states have a gym that it is known for. Florida has American Top Team, Arizona has Arizona Combat Sports, New Mexico has Greg Jackson MMA, California has American Kickboxing Academy, and the list goes on and on. In the aforementioned gyms, some of the best fighters in the world train and prepare for all of their fights. In Maryland, our signature gym is the Ground Control academy.
With schools in Columbia, Owings Mills, and the main hub in Canton, Ground Control teaches and trains over four hundred people the arts of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing. Most importantly, Ground Control is creating a “fight team” mentality that is essential in fighters developing themselves and their skills. “There is a moment when you see the student put it all together and that makes it all worthwhile. When we put one of our guys on the mat, in the ring or in the cage, we have accountability for their performance,” says Rob Mulqueen the manager and owner of the Canton gym.
Part of the fight team is Ryan Mackin who was a State Champion wrestler for Hammond High school. Mackin has competed in vast array of martial arts competitions including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Sambo, and has fought professional Muay Thai events in Thailand’s famous Lumpini Stadium. As an amateur mixed martial artist, Mackin was undefeated with eight wins and was victorious in his first professional bout via submission. With the well-rounded repertoire he has, Mackin is poised to become the face of Maryland MMA. His skills will be once again on display when Shogun Fights puts on their next show March 27.
With six fighters entering the cage March 27, Ground Control has the strongest showing out of any gym being represented. After the success of the first event, things can only get better at Shogun Fights 2. A crowd of more than 5,000 people saw the inaugural Shogun Fights and the second show should most certainly top that number. With tickets starting at $25.00, Shogun Fights gives Baltimore a cost friendly way to watch one of the most exciting sports in the world. Values taught to MMA students will also be a positive influence on the sport’s growth locally. When asked for his opinion, Mulqueen stated, “The aspects of MMA that will benefit Baltimore are the same principles that have been held holy by the martial arts community for centuries. Honor, respect, courage, hard work, and integrity!”
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