The UFC star will open a gym and wellness center with a fight ring, exercise equipment and a cafe next to Kent Station.
Cameron ‘Kamchida’ Els, from Margate, said Fight the Demon’s headquarters in Herne Bay will offer a mix of fitness, health and mental wellness services.
The bantamweight athlete, who trains with some of the sport’s biggest names in Las Vegas, told Kent Online: “We’re not here to raise thugs. We’re here to raise good men and women.”
“So many gyms are opening these days for one reason: They just want money,” Els added.
“But for us, it’s about enabling every individual to reach their full potential.
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“Fight the Demon Headquarters is more than just a gym. It’s a holistic wellness hub designed to be a welcoming space for everyone.”
The father-of-three is hopeful that the new facility, which will take over the site of a former judo and martial arts school in Station Road, Herne Bay, will open at the end of April after a £500,000 refurbishment project. I’m looking forward to it.
It will offer mixed martial arts training, hot yoga, as well as recovery and sports therapy services and a cafe for healthy meals on the go.
After six and a half years in the British Army, Mr Els became deaf in both ears and was medically discharged.
He told KentOnline that although he has since suffered from PTSD, participating in mixed martial arts was a pivotal moment in his life.
“I was at rock bottom when I realized that life was worth fighting for. That started a journey of change,” the 36-year-old said.
“I was scouted by Jackson Wink MMA, the best gym in the world, then moved to Las Vegas and traveled the world as a fighter.
“Now, legends like current UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and Holly Holme are my teammates.”
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Els was depressed after losing his debut match in 2012, but bounced back with a big win over Paddy Pimblett, who had a perfect record at the time.
“I’ve trained under the best players and I’ve used my experience training with the best players to bring the best parts to the gym,” the fighter continued.
“As the first UFC fighter from Kent, my goal is to serve the community and grow MMA in our region.
Els said once the gym is up and running, Fight the Demon plans to offer three scholarships to kids who have the potential to become great fighters.
“For the selected children, we will be in close contact with the school and monitor their behavior.
“We’re not here to raise thugs. We’re here to raise good men and women.”