MMA’s Bad Boy Returns to the Cage

MMA’s Bad Boy Returns to the Cage

By Randy Thomas

At just sixteen years of age, long before he became “Tha Projekt”, Cory Simpson stepped into the ring for the first time.  A lifelong resident of Des Moines’ North side of town, Simpson, like many others, was introduced to the sport of mixed martial arts by weekly amateur fights at Toad Holler.  The plan was simply to enjoy the night supporting another local fighter, but when Simpson was called out by a wanna-be tough guy, he did what came natural- he stepped in the ring and fought his heart out.  He loved it.  In fact, he loved it so much that he made his return to the amateur circuit 25 more times, and without a blemish on his record.  People began to take notice that the 145 lb kid who refused to back down from anyone, had the skills to back up his talk.
 
Fast forward six years and you’ll know that Cory Simpson has been there and done that.  He’ll be the first to admit that he’s made some bad decisions.  He’s taken some bad fights.  He’s gotten lazy and ballooned up to almost 200 lbs.  He’s run the streets and been in near death situations, ended up in the hospital and eventually jail.  But, with the birth of his son, Antonio and his daughter, Kota he made a decision to turn his life around.  He had to.  Death or prison were imminent.  Simpson was surrounded with the people he needed to make him a better person and a great fighter.  Not to mention the talent he was wasting.  But, the ultimate decision was his to make.  The fight was with himself.
 
“I spent some time in jail and it took away my privilege to fight.  It took away my privilege to do anything.  My actions took everything away.  I’m not a bad kid, I’ve made some bad choices though.  It was time to put all of that behind me.  It was time to surround myself with positive people.  I’m a good father and I strive to be a good role model for my children.  Plus, I’m a pretty good fighter!”
 
Despite a rocky start to his professional career, Simpson has managed to string together a record of 15 wins and 8 losses, including a recent five-fight win streak.  On March 13 at MCC 25: “Inferno”, Simpson will return to face Jake Burriola.  Burriola is another Toad Holler alum who is ready to stand, bang, and see who the better striker is.
 
“I hope he does want to stand with me.  I want to give the MCC fans what they really want to see- a show.  If he stands with me, I’m going to test his jaw.  In fact, I’m already looking past this fight.  I already have my sights set on TJ O’Brien or whoever has the MCC Lightweight Belt.  I’m coming for it, and nobody is going to be able to stop me.”
 
And, what are days like for Cory Simpson?
 
“Nothing but positive.  I’m in the gym everyday.  I get to train with my idol, Josh Neer.  Everyone at Des Moines Mixed Martial Arts looks out for me, and I’ve got nothing but love and respect for them.  I don’t take anything for granted, and I’d never risk my freedom or tarnish the perception that my fans and sponsors have for me.  I’m going to be a successful mixed martial artist.  I’m thankful.”
 
Although “Tha Projekt” is predicting a win in the first round by knock out, he’s ready for anything.  With submissions in his arsenal as well as confidence, fight fans are predicting the Simpson/Burriola match to epic; possibly one of the best fights this year.  With a huge fan base behind him, the sky is the limit for the reformed 23 year old brawler.
 
MCC 25: “Inferno” takes place Saturday, March 13 at Hy Vee Hall.  Tickets are available on-line at www.MidwestCageChampionship.com, by phone at 515-229-8566 or all Dahl’s Grocery ticket outlets.  For more information on the fight card, visit the MCC web site.