how soon after starting mma is it ok to fight?

[coleman.sensei]

i have been involved on and off in martial arts for just over 18 years and have recently started training in mma. i would like some advice on how much training is required before fighting in my first amateur fight. any help would be appreciated.

[Standupstar]

That really depends in how you/your coach feel you are doing. You say involved in martial arts but to what extent and level. The styles you have been doing also makes a difference. If you don't mind losing and you feel you can learn from fighting now then do it and grow from it.
Some may say though, that if you are asking the question then you probably aren't ready yet. Go watch some and see the stadard of what's out there, it might help you gauge where you are at

[coleman.sensei]

i have studied mainly karate and kickboxing. i was teaching karate and kickboxing at my own class up until july when i was forced to close it due to a lack of interest/low number of students. at the mma club where i train we have a few guys fighting soon so i think i might go watch those and see what it is all about. thanks for your advice.

[Standupstar]

No problem. Where are you training now by the way? Only ask as I'm not too far from you (just over the other side of Kings Lynn)

[coleman.sensei]

I am training at Avaddon MMA at the Hudson Leisure Centre in Wisbech. The lessons are taken by Chris Ellington on monday and thursday and start at 8pm and finish at 9.30pm. check out the website at www.avaddonmma.com. bloody good bunch of lads down there.

[Daddy D]

Check on the rules for Amateur fights with promoter, as Ive fought amatuer and striking to head was allowed standing but not on the ground, but a lot of amateur fights dont have any striking to the head and its really a grappling match with body strikes, which will put you at a disadvantage if your from a standing background. Its still a great experience but if youve got some ground game but your mainly a striker, maybe think semi pro.
Whatever you do, good luck and enjoy it. ;-)

[elliottgreenhill]

its tough to say how long it is before you should fight as it completely varies for everyone... some people are ready after a year or 2... ive been training for like 5months and i had 2 fights and won them both...but obvs i have sooooooooooooooo much still to learn... im not ready for pro yet.. but i was ready for amatuer its what your ready for at the time.. try amatuer.. if you lose it aint on record... if you win... great... brag lol

[Sledge]

Chris Ellington is more than capable of telling you when you are ready.

Have you discussed this with him as he is your coach.