A Labour MP is set to compete in a Brazilian jiu-jitsu match against a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter in order to raise funds for a Swindon-based charity. Will Stone, who formerly ran a jiu-jitsu gym in Swindon, has been practicing the martial art for 17 years and is a black belt in judo. He will take on jiu-jitsu blackbelt Matt Inman at a Polaris 30 event in London on 2 November in aid of the Kelly Foundation, a charity based in Swindon.
Stone, who won the Swindon North seat from the Conservatives in the July general election, stated that he is excited to be part of the MMA world, adding that “It’s a very different world to be in.” The MP, who was a rifleman in the British Army before entering politics, related that his life has changed dramatically since becoming Labour’s candidate. “I love being a politician, it truly is an honour. But I also like being [in the jiu-jitsu world],” he stated.
Stone has competed across the world, but said he has not done “as well as I would have liked.” However, he is not nervous about debates in Parliament. “If I’m willing to fight and grapple someone there is significantly higher consequences there compared to having a debate. I think with the nerves it helps a lot,” he claims.
The MP’s opponent, Matt Inman, is a professional MMA fighter who has a blackbelt in jiu-jitsu. Stone will need to employ all of his skill and experience in order to come out on top against such a skilled opponent
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
