BRISTOL, R.I. — Local Mixed Martial Arts enthusiasts got a chance to get up close and personal with one of their heroes Saturday as Icon Boxing Club hosted an open workout with John “Doomsday” Howard on Jan. 10.
The event was an opportunity for the public to witness and meet the professional UFC fighter Howard. Open Workouts are traditional in the fighting profession, especially approaching the day of a fighter’s match. They allow the media and general public an opportunity to connect with the fighter as they perform one of their final workouts before their upcoming dispute.
“I come here specifically for my big fights because the energy is awesome,” said Howard. “It’s nothing but love, I appreciate it. It’s good to see a lot of young kids out here, getting exited about the sport”
Greg Hughes has a nine-year-old son who has been boxing for two years at ICON Boxing Club. Local member Ray Dutlle, who never attended a professional fighter’s Open Workout had a “great time,” he said. “Jesse is a great guy and runs a wonderful facility. I’m glad I decided to come by”.
“It was a memorable moment meeting the prolific fighter,” said Mike Desousa, who was new to ICON and Open Workouts.
Mr. Howard took individual pictures with those who attended, and ended with a motivational speech for the crowd. “Keep training hard, keep going forward with your dreams,” he said. “Don’t let anybody tell you, you can’t do it. Just believe in yourself and you can overcome anything”.
Howard will be fighting against Lorenz “The Monsoon” Larkin for the Ultimate Fighting Championship at TD Garden in Boston on Jan. 18th.