James BovingtonEast Leeds father and daughter Simon and Kaci Tompkins have taken their close bond to a new level by stepping into the MMA cage together—emerging stronger, prouder, and more united than ever.
The pair recently competed on the same amateur Ultra MMA show, describing the experience as “being rewarded with having strengthened an already close relationship as we negotiated the challenge together.”
Simon, 38, has now taken part in three Ultra MMA events. “This was my third event with Ultra MMA,” he said. “I’m delighted to have shared it with Kaci, who turned 18 recently and was the youngest competitor.”
Simon first signed up in 2023, driven by a deeply personal reason. “I first got involved after my son was hit by a car while crossing York Road from our home near East End Park. Leo’s doing better now but it was serious. He had to relearn many basics from scratch which made him anxious and upset. I wanted to show Leo it was never too late to learn new skills and accept challenges, hence my first MMA bout raising money for the LGI neuroscience charity.”
He returned for a second bout in April 2024 and then a third, this time alongside his daughter. “Kaci has now turned 18, the minimum age for participants. She was so enthusiastic there was no way I could decline sharing this cage fight experience with my child.”
Kaci said she felt “inspired by my dad who showed that you’re never too old to push yourself beyond your limits. As soon as I could I signed up to Ultra MMA and raised money for the British Heart Foundation who have consistently helped a family friend manage her health condition.”
Initially unsure whether she could cope with the rigorous training, Kaci stuck with it. “I worried I wouldn’t cope with the demanding training. But giving up wasn’t an option. I had something to prove to myself. I developed strength and confidence through the training and made what was for me amazing progress.”
She recalls the adrenaline of fight night at The Village in Headingley. “My nerves were through the roof. My opponent Jodie Warburton offered kind words, reminding me that win or lose, this experience was incredible. Support from dad and the rest of my family helping me stay calm and believe in myself was just that, incredible. I went the full three rounds and, although I lost on points, it felt like a massive win for me.”
Reflecting on the journey, Simon added: “This experience has been unforgettable for us. We spent time together learning a new sport and challenging ourselves while raising funds for charities close to our hearts. We’re proud of what we accomplished. We’ll do it again. The coaching is top class with the events as safe as possible.”
Training is provided over eight weeks free of charge at Bad Company gym by Louis Blair from IMA in Seacroft and Tom Crosby from AVT in Morley. The events are co-ordinated by Bad Company’s Jon Harris. Anyone interested in training from September for the November event can sign up at https://www.ultra-mma.co.uk/sign-up.
I know Kaci personally, she is best friends with my daughter. I couldn’t be prouder of Kaci and all that she has accomplished. She is a wonderful young lady and I wish her all the best for her next fight! Go get ’em Kaci!!!!