Local mixed martial arts fighter Eugene Correa was born and raised in Long Beach, won his first title belt in Long Beach and will make his return to the octagon this Saturday in Long Beach.<\/p>\n
Correa was in the foster care system when he first learned karate and wrestling through free classes while living in a group home<\/a>. Eventually, he honed those skills to capture a Lights Out Xtreme Fighting title in 2024.<\/p>\n After years in the ring took a toll on his body, he opened a gym near Retro Row<\/a> last year and focused on training youth \u2014 especially those with a background like his \u2014 in self-defense. But he had to close the gym earlier this month after discovering mold, and decided it was time to get back into the octagon.<\/p>\n On Saturday, Correa (6-2) will face off against Gilroy-born Anthony Figueroa II (8-1) at Thunder Studios for the A1 Combat interim lightweight title.<\/p>\n You can find the full fight card here.<\/a><\/p>\n Tom Anderson, the fight\u2019s promoter, said Correa has been on their radar for at least three years.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s an all-around great fighter,\u201d Anderson said.<\/p>\n Correa said he\u2019s hoping a win will land him a contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship.<\/p>\n Right now, Correa\u2019s battling his weight to make sure he qualifies for the lightweight fight. That\u2019s meant no carbs and waiting until 2 p.m. to eat his first meal of the day, Correa said.<\/p>\n While preparing, Correa has also juggled training private clients around Los Angeles, volunteering at the Long Beach Rescue Mission and occasionally teaching classes at the Long Beach Khmer Kickboxing Center<\/a> \u2014 founded by renowned local kickboxing instructor Oum Ry Ban.<\/p>\n