Today we chatted to Chris Thompson, co-founder of Grapplefest, the UK’s #1 grappling show. If you haven’t heard of it… 1) where have you been and 2) Watch it! On May 21st is the 12th outing, and what a show it’s going to be!
30+ fights with the world’s best grapplers. It will be epic.
Chris Thompson, the co-founder of Grapplefest, talks to us exclusively all about how Grapplefest came about, the ruleset, the competitors and where he wants it to be in 5 years!
Interview With Chris Thompson
Grapplefest is an invite-only grappling show with almost no grappling rules. There are some ordinary ones that you expect (no eye pokes, pinching, etc.), but the game aims to attack and submit. A refreshing change of pace compared to its jiu-jitsu cousin, the IBJJF ruleset.
The show has only been going on since 2018. Covid caused some issues as it only gave the show maybe a 3-year lifespan to date. To get in 12 shows already is very impressive and has gone from strength to strength. Promoter and co-founder Chris Thompson says in the interview that he is aiming to bring us to 4 shows a year. That’s some planning.
Top Talent
The promotion has had some of the world, (not just the UK’s) BEST talent on it. Everyone from the Liverpool based, fantastic talent – Kev Corkhill though to internationally renown Dante Leon has been on this show.
Fite TV
If you can’t get to Grapplefest 12 – click this link, buy the Fite Pass and you’ll get to watch all the Grapplefests! It’s only about £50 for the whole year and will give you additional access to loads of other fight related content, including boxing, kickboxing and other MMA/Grappling promotions.
If you want to find out who is competing – CHECK OUT THE FULL CARD HERE!
