Brian Imes preparing for battle

It’s odd how at 6’5” I have been out-sized in nearly every one of my fights. I have spent the entirety of my short career in the light heavyweight division being out-muscled by shorter men. I am naturally wiry and rely on my flexibility versus strength to manipulate opponents.

The only natural solution is to drop to middleweight, where I have been steadily headed since the end of January. For the first time in my career I will have the size and strength advantage. This transformation has returned my focus to the clinch style that is natural for my build. My striking has quickened along with my ground transitions. Stylistically speaking, middleweight is the proper home for Brian Imes.

This Saturday I will be attending an open tryout for Bellator Fighting Championships at Ringside in Lenexa, Kansas. Bellator is promoting a series of events at the Kansas City Power & Light District starting in April. I am looking forward to the experience and anxious to impress the brass of this organization.

Being a young combatant in this sport I still work to supplement my income between fights. Coincidentally I tend bar at PBR Big Sky in the Power & Light District. After training all week the late nights of the bar can be tiresome, but I enjoy the change of pace from the gym. What a thrill it would be to perform in front of my working family in my hometown where I am 4-0.

This tryout is a great opportunity for every fighter in Kansas City’s growing MMA community. Kansas City native Eric Marriott recently signed a contract with Bellator as did former Mizzou wrestler Ben Askren. I am anxious to see both of these Missouri men compete in one of mixed martial arts finest promotions. The Power & Light District, complete with restaurants, night clubs and shopping, will be a brilliant and unique setting for this event.

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