Mixed Martial Arts Career
For a number of years Torres fought primarily in small, unsanctioned events held in Northwest Indiana nightclubs and bars. As a result, much of his early fighting career is undocumented. Prior to signing with the WEC, he fought often on Chicago-area shows, including the Total Fight Challenge and the Ironheart Crown. He held the bantamweight title in both of these organizations for several years and his participation in those events is well documented.
After fighting for several years, Torres sought guidance and training under Carlson Gracie, Senior. As a trainer of many world champions, Gracie immediately recognized Torres's talent and took him on a trip to Brazil where he would publicly issue a challenge to the entire world. Long before Torres gained fame in the WEC, Gracie believed that no one could beat him at 135 pounds.
Torres received several offers to fight overseas in Brazil and Japan after the challenge was issued. Because these offers were not lucrative enough to face the tougher competition, he turned them down and continued to fight locally instead.
Read more about this topic: Miguel Torres (fighter)
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