MMA star Walter Gahadza secured an unusual victory against Colin Franklin at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham.

Gahadza had trained tirelessly in the build up to the biggest fight of his career.

But it was all over in just 12 seconds as Franklin – a former UFC fighter – was disqualified for three illegal elbowed moves to the back of Gahadza’a head.

However, Gahadza’s coach at his Westcliff TSG base Dan Burzotta, felt Franklin knew he was in trouble before making the bizarre moves.

“The guy was outclassed,” said Burzotta.

“He got rocked in the very first exchange of the fight and he knew he was hurt.

“He went into survival mode and landed three illegal blows to the back of Walter’s head.

“The referee stopped the fight and then on close examination the doctor noticed a cut on Walter’s head from the illegal blows which resulted in the doctor stoppage.

“That gave Walter the win but he caught him clean with four punches and I think he knew he was about to get knocked out.

“He went into panic mode and adrenalin can make people do some stupid things. But it’s no excuse, especially as he’s a seasoned professional fighter.”

Gahadza’s fight was his first for BAMMA, one of the sport’s biggest promoters in Europe.

But Gahadza – a former Belfairs High School pupil – was disappointed not to have been able to show off more of his talent.

“I came to fight clean and professionally but took three elbows to the back of the head,” said Gahadza.

“I’ve worked hard and believed I would have won the fight by other means.

“I’m gutted but thank you for everyone who supports me in this sport.”

Gahadza was keen to thank his sponsors – Kimura, Fuel and Nourish, SPT Fitness and Nova Environmental – for their support.

And he was also keen to praise TSG for helping him to get in such good shape.

“I need to thank Dan Burzotta and everyone at TSG MMA for helping me throughout the training camp,” said Gahadza.

“A lot of sweat and sacrifice went into preparing for it all.”

Gahadza’s next fight will be at the start of July on the UWC show which is being held at Clements Hall in Hawkwell against a top 10 ranked opponent.

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