An opportunity that came only after putting in much work on the local MMA scene. Dominating work that paid off in the form of the bigger stage and brighter lights of 'Bellator Fighting Championships'.
Martinez recently inked a deal with the respected promotion after a brief stint with 'ProElite' and will be making his debut under their banner Friday night against UFC veteran Mike Wessel (11-4-0).
The heavy handed Rodrigo Gracie BJJ purple belt comes into 'Bellator 73' after surging to a 7-1 record that started with a huge win over a former national champion wrestler in Mark Ellis, giving the 'American Kickboxing Academy' prodigy his first career defeat.
As he looks back over his time in the cage, the Greeley resident easily recognizes when the turning point was.
"I knew as soon as I signed with the 'Ring Of Fire' that it would probably be one of my last local shows. It just so happened that after I won the ROF fight, Pro Elite was on the phone right away looking to sign some heavyweight talent for their next tournament."
And the rest is history.
Wessel comes into the fight struggling since getting beat my Marcus Jones shortly after the start of 'The Ultimate Fighter' season ten. Friday night he will be trying to string together two wins for the first time since October of 2010.
Martinez will play the role of the moderate favorite coming in at (-)330 with Wessel the underdog at a (+)250. That said, Martinez isn't at all worried about the details of the man standing in his way.
"I know he's fought in the UFC twice and he likes to come forward."
If Wessel decides to use this tactic against Martinez, it could be a short night for both fighters.
Taking a page out of 'Iron' Mike's playbook, Martinez is looking to just let the fight unfold as it may, reacting as needed.
"I can't really say what I'm going to do, I never have a game plan going out there other than to fight my fight. Every fight begins standing up and I know I'm 100% there. If it goes to the ground, I'm prepared for that to.
"It's not like I say to my self I'm going to shoot for a take down and finish it that way. I'm cerebral about my fights so whatever happens, happens. I'll take it as it comes."
With Martinez's troubled rise from the streets well documented, it's not even Mixed Martial Arts that he holds closest to his heart as he goes into battle once again.
"My main focus right now is raising my family.
"If I can do that, I know I'm doing alright."
Martinez wanted to thank those that have helped him get to this point including God, his family, Hugos Barber Shop, Future Legend, V.I.P Signs, Salon Superior, Sud City, Express Detail, Corral Enterprise, Empire Productions, One Stop Fitness, and team 'Infinite MMA'
Check back here for the full results from 'Bellator 73'.
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