WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. -- The University of the Cumberlands Men's Wrestling Program is one that has seen numerous NAIA All-Americans and NAIA National Champions over the past few years. However, very few of those young men have gone on to pursue further training and competition in the form of kickboxing, boxing, or mixed martial arts. One Patriot though is hitting this trail head-on and with full force.

Dustin Center will be making his professional MMA Debut on Saturday July, 10 in Atlanta, GA. He is facing undefeated fighter Kenny Jackson in the first round of a single elimination eight man grand-prix style tournament run by Sportfight X.

While at Mason High School, Dustin was a time time state wrestling qualifier. In 2010, he became a four time NAIA All-American wrestler at the University of the Cumberlands after leaving for a year to go to Bangkok, Thailand as a semi-professional kickboxer. Dustin is currently working on his Master's degree in Special Education and is a Graduate Assistant Wrestling Coach for the University of the Cumberlands.

 

When asked about his fight this weekend, Dustin commented, "I've been working really hard and I'm ready to see what my potential is. I expect to win with ease in this one, hopefully by 1st round knockout. That would make it even better."

 

For more information about Patriot wrestling and Patriot athletics visit www.ucumberlands.edu/athletics.