There is a tremendous growing attention and fan base of the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) community, and along with that growth is the demand of new talent. As is a new face to represent the sport. New up and coming fighters whom which are just getting their first first hand tastes of the professional side of MMA are aspiring to become the next house hold name. But, unfortunately, most fall short of fully reaching their goal.
Usually, you can point out a fighter whose chances favor him of reaching that next step of the MMA career. Either they have that certain look or build which is expected, or their style or dominance is remembered. Guam native and San Diego based fighter Joe “Hybrid” Duarte is one of those fighters lucky enough to personally own both look and physical talent. But Joe also owns another very important object needed to get you far in MMA. Heart. And that became extremely obvious when he made his MMA debut against a veteran who kneed Joe in the groin in the opening minute of the 15 minute bout. After a painful few minutes of the Hybrid getting past the hurt, he rose to his feet and tossed his opponent around the octagon for the remainder of the fight, much like a killer whale tossing around a seal.
It is not every day you get to witness a world class kickboxer turn into a world class wrestler, especially after the blow Joe Duarte witnessed. And yet become even more focused to completely dominate a more experienced opponent on one’s debut in front of a large crowd in his home town. But this is why the nickname Hybrid was appropriately given to this young up and comer from his professional boxing and kickboxing days.
Being one of the most genetically blessed individuals I have personally ever got the pleasure of meeting, his fighting style lives up to the name he is proudly known by. Joe Duarte has achieved an impressive 19-1 professional Muay Thai career as well as a 9-0 professional boxing career, definite evidence of the man’s overpowering striking. He has also served 4 years in the Army and spent 2 years in Iraq. All before his 24th birthday.
So, it is safe to say that along with his heart and physical capabilities, Joe “Hybrid” Duarte is a promising force in the MMA world. Every person who has gotten the privilege of training, or being around him is confident their will be a top organization’s belt will be around this force’s waist very soon. Written by Jimmy Kennedy!
