Issue 195
June 2022
After claiming eye-catching finishes in both of his first two pro bouts, Cage Warriors welterweight Chasen Blair is making all the right moves as he competes on both sides of the Atlantic for the UK-based promotion, writes Simon Head.
Blair, who was in the UK as a training partner for Paddy Pimblett ahead of UFC London in March, made his Cage Warriors debut on April 2 against fellow pro debutant Rickie Moore at Cage Warriors 136, and showcased his wrestling prowess as he dominated his opponent before finishing him with strikes midway through the first round.
Blair returned home to the West Coast after his victory and didn’t have to wait long for his next assignment, a bout against Kona Oliveira at Cage Warriors 139.
Fighting in an outdoor setting at Humphrey’s By The Bay in his home town of San Diego, Blair competed in front of friends and family for the first time as an MMA pro, and he delivered in spectacular fashion.
Blair started fast and, as he broke from the clinch, unleashed a heavy right hand that connected flush and instantly knocked out Oliveira as the San Diego crowd went wild.
After the fight, Blair recapped his crowd-pleasing performance on home soil.
“It was surreal moment,” he said.
“I mean, you look at the venue (and) how much love and support I had from the community, it was amazing. These are the kinds of moments you always dream of, you know, one day became today and I just can’t… it’s hard, just take it all in, you know?”
The bout saw Blair fight at home after travelling halfway across the world to make his professional MMA debut in Manchester
“I was away from home, friends and family, new camp, first fight ever and it was right into a packed BEC Arena. So we got thrown to the wolves there! It’s great to be here and (I’m) excited for the next one and (I’ll) just keep chipping away, (I’ve) got a lot to work on after that performance and I’m very excited.”
That “next one” could possibly see Blair heading back across the pond to the UK once again, where he plans to hook up with the Next Generation team in Liverpool once again.
“Yeah, I definitely am looking forward to seeing my crazy British family!” he smiled.
“I would love love to see them and take any opportunity that arises with that. But yeah, I’m excited to see them.
“I want to get back in the cage as soon as possible. (I’ve) still got a lot to work on. Being a part of this promotion, it’s such an honour and now we’re here in California, last fight was over in Europe. It’s growing and opportunities are arising.
“There’s gonna be fighters going back and forth. Kyle Driscoll is going over there to fight for the lightweight title, so that’s exciting, and it’s a nice precedent to see. So I’m looking forward to any opportunity that arises (that) could be over in Europe.”
He’s only two fights into his young career, but the signs are looking good so far for Chasen “Paper” Blair. And his parting message was a simple one.
“Keep your eyes out. I’m gonna take every opportunity as it comes,” he said.
“I’m just grateful for everything. Thank you to all my coaches, family, friends, everyone who sent messages of support leading up to the bout. I just want to keep it keep it rolling.”
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