This ain’t the ballet, that’s for sure.
Usually arts and entertainment take centre stage at Nanaimo’s Port Theatre but next week the venue hosts something a little different.
Battlefield Fight League will hold a 10-match mixed martial arts card there April 27.
Battlefield MMA held two events in Nanaimo last year, both at Frank Crane Arena.
“We just weren’t able to get good, clean production for television,” said Jay Golshani, Battlefield promoter. “In Vancouver we were at the Vogue Theatre [and] the River Rock, which are very similar to the Port Theatre. So we are just trying it out to see if it improves our production and gives us a better feel.”
Floor seats will take the Port’s capacity close to 1,000, Golshani said.
“I think it’s going to be louder in there. I think it’s going to be a better fit for us.”
John Punt, Nanaimo Impact MMA trainer, will have two of his athletes fighting on the card, Nick Hinchliffe and Eli Wyse.
Punt said he’s excited about being part of an MMA event at the Port Theatre.
“We’ve fought in similar venues throughout the years…” he said. “Those type of small venues, I think it ends up being a better show for the fans. Visually it’s better.”
FIGHT FACTS … Hinchliffe will face Bastien Huveneers in the main event. Wyse takes on Morgan Bentley. The semi-main event is Marcus Aurelio versus Matt Dwyer. For ticket information, visit www.bfltix.com.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com
