Q&A with Cage Warriors commentator Brad Wharton:

Fans can expect more of the Cage Warriors action they’ve come to know and love over almost quarter of a century. We’re going to continue to act as the biggest, best and most consistent platform for emerging MMA talent in the UK, Europe and beyond.

How many shows will Cage Warriors be hosting in 2025 and will there be any new destinations / venues?

We’ve already released our schedule for March-April, and with six events in seven weeks across four countries, it’s a busy start to the year. Fans should expect more of the same as the year progresses; we’ve got a big, international roster and we’re going to keep them all busy through 2025 and beyond. As far as new destinations go, we’re always on the lookout for opportunities to bring the unique CW live experiences to new markets.

With Cage Warriors, it’s more about being the best version of ourselves rather than the biggest organisation out there. There’s been countless organisations popping up at every level of the game, claiming they’re going to be bigger than the UFC or the next big thing, then blowing millions or going broke almost as quickly as they appeared. We have a platform and a legacy that makes us Europe’s leading MMA organisation, and we’re going to build on that legacy moving forward.

Do you think there are any misconceptions surrounding the organisation or the sport of MMA in general?

There are always misconceptions surrounding combat sports, especially relatively new ones like MMA. Unfortunately, the actions of a small minority of extremely popular athletes can reflect badly on the rest of the sport as a result. But it’s important to remember that the sport has many great ambassadors as well. Here at Cage Warriors, we work with organisations like Vet Tix and Blue Light to give tickets to veterans and members of our emergency services, and many CW athletes and alumni do great work in their communities.

It’s a combination of factors. We have an incredible production team that give our live events that ‘big show’ feel, and some incredibly loyal fans that ensure we have a fantastic atmosphere time and time again. Ultimately it comes down to the fights though. We’re giving fans the chance to see high-level MMA at an affordable ticket price, and the opportunity to follow along the rise of the best up-and-coming young athletes in the sport as they master their craft. Lots of people jump on the bandwagon when a popular fighter starts doing well in the UFC; we’re allowing fans to be a part of that rise.

How good is it to see former fighters such as Paddy Pimblett and Ian Garry thriving in the UFC?

We always love to see members of our Cage Warriors achieving their dreams at the highest level. From the legends of yesteryear like Dan Hardy and Michael Bisping who are now prominent figures in the sport, to the newest generation of athletes swapping the famous yellow gloves of CW for those of the UFC. We’ve sent way over 100 athletes to the UFC over the years, and while we’re often sad to see them go, it also proves the point that we’re the number one organisation in Europe for platforming the new talent.

It’s a case of trusting the process; there are so many variables in a sport like MMA that you can’t plan an entire year ahead of yourself and expect everything to fall into place. We often have to deal with our biggest stars getting signed by the UFC, but we pride ourselves on the strength of our roster and our ability to pivot when these things happen. It’s not necessarily always about ‘beating’ a previous year, it’s about making the absolute best of the chances and challenges the current year presents.

Jack Latham

CombatCorner