The mecca of Medieval cage fighting commenced at Canton’s Hall of Fame Village on Oct. 18th! Armored MMA (AMMA) Fest had international, national, and local fighters who strapped on their armor and fought hard! A heavy-hitting line-up of bands accompanied the festival.
The all-day extravaganza kicked off with a free event of dozens of armored fighters in a multi-battle melee early in the day. Free performances outside of the main gate included local acts, How We Feel, Alyxx, Hannan, and Asava.
Fans flocked to the main event inside Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Memphis band Sleep Theory kicked off the mainstage performances with their signature metal meets R&B fusion.
Drowning Pool took the stage next, and their setlist was perfect to lead into the matches. They performed hits like “Sinner,” “Step Up,” “Tear Away,” and of course “Bodies.” A special treat for fans included their rendition of Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell.”
One of the AMMA founders and masterminds, Mickey Gallus, greeted and thanked fans for their support. He was also in the very first match of the night (and won!).
The first championship on the line was for the Middleweight crown. Andrew McCabe secured the prize after successfully winning a hard-fought match against Andrew Martinez, hailing from Mexico.
One of the most exciting moments for Armored MMA came when the only female fight took place for the first Women’s Championship in the sport’s history. Polish fighter Jenny Harby took the win against Shanna Knight in a standoff, testing patience and strategy in this battle!
The last hour of matches began, and it was not for the weak. Veteran Ronin Sato won the Light Heavyweight Championship as he beat out well-known opponent Taylor Jones, whom he had lost to previously. A rivalry for Armored MMA history!
Leading the half-time show was headliner Lamb of God. Frontman Randy Blyth was in the AMMA spirit as he came out wielding a sword. The band performed well-known anthems “Walk With Me In Hell” and “Laid To Rest.” Lamb of God battered eardrums and opened up mosh pits.
The final match of the night was for the heavyweight crown for the first time. This match was between Jimmy Shock and UK fighter Bohumil Masničák. The underdog in the game, Shock, emerged victorious in an epic fight where Masničák gave it his all.
It was a full day (and night) of matches, music, and lots of metal-on-metal action. If you haven’t been to an AMMA match, it’s a unique experience unlike any other sport. We’ll be at the next AMMA Fest. We can’t wait to see these championships get defended!