del Castillo powers up Combate play

Flush with a new equity infusion of $20 million, Hispanic MMA sports entertainment franchise, Combate Americas is prepping its next live television event, Combate de Reinas’ live television event at Galen Center in LA on April 26, serving up “the first time in history that a combat sports event will feature an all-women’s lineup on broadcast television.” Investors included actress Kate del Castillo, along with Joe Plumeri, Ambassador Cliff Sobel and Irving Place Capital CEO John Howard. Cynopsis Sports asked del Castillo about her move into MMA. del Castillo on MMA: Well, I grew up in Mexico City, and Mexico and other Hispanic countries have a great boxing tradition, which I love. But I was not drawn by the violence and blood-sport action of MMA. I see Combate Americas as an empowering force and source of pride among Hispanic communities. Combate Americas and the sport of MMA, are both built on tradition – the tradition of honor, pride, respect and devotion to one’s country. On Combate Americas: I have been a fan of boxing for a while and have recently become more familiar with MMA. I attended my first Combate Americas event a couple of years ago, and knew immediately that I wanted to join the Combate family. I wanted to be part of a great company that authentically advocates for Hispanic pride and female empowerment I also think Hispanic women continue to need our support in every single way and Combate Americas does more for female athletes than just about anyone else as the most diverse combat sports franchise. I am a big fan of Campbell McLaren and how he has built this brand to embrace and develop Hispanic athletes. On the company’s biggest challenge and opportunity: Combate Americas has proven to be a disruptor in the world of Hispanic sports entertainment as well as in the combat sports industry. We are hopeful for the opportunity to bring more cachet to the MMA community and broaden its appeal among the Hispanic audiences. I am committed to growing Combate Americas to be the #2 sport, after soccer of course, for Hispanic sports fans around the world On female empowerment: I always surround myself with strong women and have been a champion for female empowerment my entire life. The moment I got to know these talented female fighters and their struggles, I knew I had to put in the time and commit to fight for them too. I want to see the athletes become the stars they deserve and have the potential to be. “Reinas del Combate” is a testament to Combate Americas’ commitment to female empowerment. This event in Los Angeles on April 26 at the Galan Center will mark the first time in history that an MMA event with all-women’s main-card will air live on broadcast television!

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