Middleton’s MMA fighter Rawa Rashid is overjoyed after winning his first MMA contest of the year, following a nine-month absence from the cage. He defeated Keighley’s Charlie Miller in front of a large crowd at the recent Combat Challenge show held at Bradford’s Cedar Court Hotel.
Fight Details
Rawa explained: “I secured a second-round stoppage using what is called a rear naked choke. This forces the opponent to submit as it cuts off his air supply. If he doesn’t tap out, the referee will end the bout. Our fight was scheduled for three rounds, meaning a planned nine minutes in the cage. Charlie was a tough opponent determined to win, and I’m pleased that together we put on a show that the audience found entertaining, exciting, and exhilarating. Charlie and I certainly did, and we’re both proud we had the courage to step in there.”
Rising Star
Rawa turns 18 in July and is building a solid reputation as a tough, talented South Leeds fighter who will take on anyone. He added: “It’s true that I’m not scared of any potential opponent at my weight. I’m concentrating on MMA because it’s the combat sport that unites all disciplines. Let’s face it, the fights can be brutal, even bloody, but they are nothing if not entertaining. I’ll be fighting as an adult next, but already I can do pretty much anything in my fights with fists, kicks, and knees. I don’t wear any special protection, although using elbows is restricted to professional MMA.”
Training and Background
“I train at AVT in Morley,” explained Rawa, who has just completed his Leeds College of Building course. “At AVT, I mix with top amateurs such as Mason Yarrow and Harry Edwards. They are tough, resilient, and highly skilled. There are lots of young fighters at AVT whose ambition is combat sports success. I’m now prioritising MMA, although I also enjoy boxing. Last December, I won the 75kg novice title boxing belt on the Haynes Promotions show at The Angler’s in Burmantofts.”
“Many fighters have an alias or a moniker, and mine is ‘The Kurdish Machine.’ I like the fact that people from all backgrounds come together in combat sports, and we all encourage each other, hopefully irrespective of ethnic, cultural, or religious backgrounds. I’m no different to any other fighter – in the cage or ring, my aim is to prove I belong there and that on the day I am mentally and physically tougher than the opponent.”
Promoter’s View
Saif Khan, 56, is the promoter behind Combat Challenge. The former MMA competitor and coach retired from West Yorkshire Police in 2020. Saif said: “We are proud of Rawa and Charlie, who represent the best of the courageous, committed, and keen young fighters our shows promote. Both boxers trained intensively and proved it beyond doubt. We are about giving opportunities to homegrown talent and providing well-matched bouts that allow elite athletes to showcase developing skill and talent through dedication and commitment at their gyms.”
Future Plans
Rawa is looking for work in the health and fitness industry. He said: “If it allows me to share my love of combat sports, then all the better. I’m also open to sponsorship. If any local people or firms are potential sponsors, then I’m best contacted on Instagram @rawa.lds or by email at rawarleeds235@gmail.com.”
