Bradford MMA brothers giving back to their community

Callum and Tom Mullen are behind the Mixed Martial Arts gym StrikeKings on Barry Street in the city centre.

The pair have been putting on sessions for kids four times a week teaching them the fundamentals of the sport.

"We have got a ton of kids competing and representing Bradford," Callum, of Thornton, said.

"Getting them off the street, keeping them busy, and putting their energy into something. 

"It is just about giving back to the community. I feel like we have created something that was not around when I was a kid.

"We have kids fighting across the country then kids who just train and learn the techniques to get that discipline. It is not all about competition.

"Sunday is our busiest day. We have had 70 kids on the mats at times."

The brothers also compete in various competitions across the country - both compiling 6-2 records.

Callum feels the coaching allows them to have a good balance in their careers.

"Being a full-time fighter is hard. There is no money in it until you make it on a good show," he said.

"We were doing one-to-one sessions to earn some money. Then we had a group of people coming in who wanted to do classes and fight.

"We opened a little gym and it took off from there. We started off with 20 members and took off from that."

Jay Gul, of Fight_Talk_247, has been working with the brothers to help promote the gym.

"We have got this in our city and I wanted to give kudos to them two," he said.

Jay Gul (middle) with the brothers (Image: UGC)"StrikeKings has been actively contributing to the betterment of our community, particularly in areas related to youth development, community engagement and mental health issues.

"Their efforts have not only made a positive impact but have also inspired others to get involved in community-building activities.

"They continue to train and achieve their dreams as well as help young people stay off the streets.

"What these guys are building at this gym is fantastic and it needs to be told."

On his role, Jay added: "Giving back to the community is what we stand for.

"We are going to be managing these fighters at a later stage and make sure they have an excellent career."