THE CLINCH REPORT

By: Jonathan M King The Clinch Report

Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report

Videoed and Edited By: Bob Fisher Pugilpix.com

I guess you could say Matthew Spencer has been reborn in every sense of the word. Spiritually and Physically it would be difficult to find a more legitimate role model. Spencer works several full time jobs to support his family and still has time to train religiously! Not only physically, but spiritually as well. Spencer is an active member in his church and often provides spiritual counsel to younger fighters.

As an amateur, Spencer had become somewhat recognized as a pedigreed fighter with a well rounded skill set. After all, he trains with some of the best in their respected disciplines. Most fighters in the sport of mixed martial arts prefer to find a home. A one stop shop for all their training needs. Super camps like American Top Team in Coconut Creek Florida, or American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose California, and even Jackson’s MMA in Arizona provide this ‘all in one’ fight camp that  resonates with some of the best fighters in the world. Like those fighters, Spencer receives the same training, in mixed disciplines. However unlike most, Spencer calls three gyms home. ‘The Yard‘ Muay Thai, ‘Tapout‘ Los Angeles, and Eddie Bravo’s ‘10th Planet Jiu Jitsu‘ can claim a piece of Spencer, as he represents sort of a three headed monster created by all 3 labs.

That Franken-Fighter, assembled from parts strewn around LA, made his pro debut at Hollywood Fight Night 8 presented by Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing, and all went according to plan. His opponent Gabe Lopez proved to be pretty tough, powering out of a deep arm bar, before Suplexing Spencer on his head. Spencer held on to a guillotine choke that in hind sight he probably should have let go! Even still Spencer quickly recovered without ever sacrificing position, and eventually he was able to secure  the rear naked choke at the end of the first round.Lopez fought off several attempts, but once the forearm was under his chin he was forced  to tap.

The win, his first may have been expected. However the journey to the destination has been full of road blocks. Life presents several challenges in everyday life. Spencer is no different in this regard. How he handles these issues, however is what separates this man from the rest. His approach to fighting and to life remain the same. His faith is his armor, and his family his heart. His allegiances may be between three different teams, but that loyalty is stronger than most fighter who call one place home. He may be late to the dance, in terms of age, however after all he has overcome to get where he currently is, with the faith he has, I wouldn’t bet against him!

For  more on our Exclusive coverage please check out our full report at:

https://theclinchreport.com/2014/10/31/costumes-and-carnage-hollywood-fight-night-8/