The four remaining heavyweights in the “Road To ONE” heavyweight tournament being held by RUF Nation got a good look at their ultimate prize that awaits them following the epic ONE Championship 10th-anniversary showcase earlier on Saturday at ONE X.
But their work begins in the evening at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix, Arizona, at RUF 46.
Yimaz Wildman Plans to Win Via KO at RUF 46
One of those men is Tra’Von “Yimaz Wildman” Butler, who punched his ticket to the semifinal after a first-round TKO over Corey Mullis. The Missouri native’s self-described “gritty” upbringing has helped him develop the mental fortitude to compete in this tournament.
“I had to grow up faster than other kids in my environment,” said Butler.
“My father raised me on a warrior’s code.”
That warrior’s code has been on full display thus far as he has looked the part of a possible tournament winner. The heavyweight also brings in the mantra of his childhood hero, The Incredible Hulk, to smash his opponents.
Touting his conditioning and technique, Butler plans to put Cameron Chism-Brungard on notice at RUF 46.
“His biggest strength is his heart, but his biggest weakness is that he never went against somebody like me.”
If his confidence seems over the top, that may be a byproduct of his professional wrestling background. “Yimaz Wildman” is not shy in creating a persona and using it to grab attention. Thus far, it has worked, and the self-proclaimed gladiator of the sport is just two wins away from a six-figure ONE contract.
“I’m going to impact the ONE heavyweight division. I have the charisma of Apollo Creed, the entertainment the crowd needs. I have the determination of Clubber Lang that gives intimidation to any Goliath you put in front of me. I have the will of Rocky that gives the fire inside of me to never give up,” said Butler.
“That’s what I bring. So who dares challenge me?”
As he continues to score finishes and gets closer to punching a life-changing ticket to ONE’s heavyweight division, Butler is setting the foundation for what he ultimately wants to accomplish in the sport — a legacy.
“I need the fans energy to be most toughest, baddest, electrifying gladiator that enters this
coliseum on RUF 46 event. Cause only two may enter, but only one can leave.”
And how does he plan to leave with his arm raised? By KO, of course.
RUF 46: Road To ONE: Heavyweight Tournament Semifinals can be streamed live for $14.99 on www.rufnation.com. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased via eTix.
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