The transition from the end of summer to fall has been eventful for the Absolute MMA team! From competing for world titles in Vegas to fighting in the MMA cage locally, our fighters continue to make us proud. In this blog post, we will showcase the recent accomplishments of three of our current competitors: Kiyani Benally, Lyndsie Peterson, and Nick Lavulo.
These three combat sports athletes are great examples of what you can achieve as a martial artist. They continue remind us what we’re all capable of.
Kiyani Benally jumps to 2-0 in her amateur MMA career
On August 10, 2024, Kiyani Benally made her way back into the cage for the second time this year and walked out after winning via rear naked choke in round 2. This fight was her second as a part of the Steel Fist MMA card in Salt Lake City, UT.
Kiyani’s 2-0 start to her MMA career has directly resulted from her consistent training. You’ll always find her at Absolute MMA actively participating in classes. Whether it’s our Fitness & Conditioning classes or Jiu Jitsu classes, you can expect to see her training.
As an active MMA fighter, Kiyani’s versatility is no accident. She’s been an active competitor in Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and Kickboxing for the last several years. Kiyani has found success in each combat sport she pursues!
“Kiyani has the ability to fight in all ranges of MMA. She can Strike, Wrestle and has good Jiu Jitsu. She’s young and has a promising future”.- Professor Rob
Lyndsie Peterson makes her way to the podium 3 times at the IBJJF World Masters
2024 has proven to be a pivotal year in Lyndsie’s career. Lyndsie was promoted to brown belt on June 25, 2024 after an incredible competition campaign as a purple belt. Following her promotion, she medaled three times in August at the 2024 IBJJF World Masters and JitsCon events in Las Vegas.
Lyndsie fought her way to the podium in the Master 2 Division and the Absolute. She also competed in the Jiu-Jitsu Con in the Adult Division and took third there as well. Lyndsie’s time on the mats learning both BJJ and Judo allows her to shine in competition.
A direct result of her hard work and fighting spirit, Lyndsie made her way into the IBJJF top ten rankings taking the 8th spot. She continues to show us all what she’s capable of at the highest levels.
“Lyndsie faced her toughest competition to date. We knew going into this tournament that we were breaking new ground and needed to test the water. I’m happy with the results but more excited about having the opportunity to see her fight more skilled and dangerous opponents.” -Professor Rob
A 9-second finish for Nick Lavulo marks his comeback after 11 years
Who says you can’t fight again after taking more than a decade off? Nick Lavulo was the victor after a 9-second knockout despite not fighting for 11 years.
Nick’s years of combat sports experience showed in his time in the cage. He made weight and stayed in great shape throughout his fight camp. When Nick wasn’t able to make it to Absolute MMA due to family and work obligations, he did his own conditioning and drills at home.
Once it was time to step into the cage, Nick stuck to the basics and let his hands do the work. Nick utilized his explosiveness and striking accuracy to finish the fight. His performance was a great reminder that fundamentals win fights.
“I’m happy with Nick’s performance. He took some risks facing a younger, athletic fighter with a wrestling background like Thompson. It had been a minute since Nick fought last. At his age things are a little different than when he was younger so it was good to see him go in there and let it go.” -Professor Rob
What’s next for Team Absolute?
Despite the great performances across the board for Absolute MMA, our team will continue to keep training and working towards our goals. The journey isn’t over yet for Kiyani, Lyndsie, and Nick. Nor is it over for the rest of the team. There are more tournaments and fights to sign up for.
What do the three Absolute MMA fighters mentioned above have in common?
One thing you’ll quickly learn in combat sports is that your success is no accident. Kiyani, Lyndsie, and Nick have a few things in common that have led to the success they’ve experienced in their fight careers. All three fights have continued to tap into key qualities that help them be at their best.
Here are a few of those shared qualities these Absolute MMA fighters have:
- Willingness to invest in the team: One of the attributes all three fighters have in common is they are great training partners. You’ll never hear them putting down other people. Instead, you’ll see them pushing their teammates and helping others with their fight camps.
- Consistent class attendance: Great fighters know they won’t get better if they don’t train consistently. Nick, Lyndsie, and Kiyani all know from firsthand experience that you have to keep working on your craft to improve. With consistent class attendance, you can also find yourself increasing your abilities and fight IQ.
- Emphasis on conditioning: Lyndsie, Nick, and Kiyani stay ready so they don’t have to get ready. All three fighters do their best to be in shape all year long which helps them be fit and prevent injuries. They don’t skip conditioning in the gym and they’re also putting in the work outside of the gym. All three fighters also emphasize eating nutritious food to stay on weight.
- Ability to stay positive: Regardless of the issues they’re dealing with, these three fighters find ways to rise above adversity. They’re often able to stay positive by showing up for their teammates and cheering them on. Kiyani, Nick, and Lyndsie know they can overcome obstacles with the right mindset.
As you can see, the qualities mentioned above are qualities you can tap into in the world of combat sports. These qualities will help you be at your best whether you’re trying to get the most out of class or you’re entering a competition.
It’s time to begin your combat sports journey with Absolute MMA!
Whether you’re new to combat sports or you’re looking for a new home, it’s time to start training at Absolute MMA! Absolute MMA is a great place to train. Our gym members come from all levels of experience with different backgrounds in fitness and fighting.
Use this link to use your FREE one-week trial: https://absolutemma.com/free-trial/
By using the link above, you can try out all of the classes we offer. You can experience everything including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, Fitness and Conditioning, and Open Gyms. Let us know if you have any questions!