Never Back Down 2025 Ignites Mexico City
A surge of energy, discipline, and competition swept through Iztapalapa, Mexico City, during Never Back Down 2025— a three-day martial arts tournament that united athletes from across the nation.
Hosted at Gimnasio G-2, the event was directed by Sensei Eric Velasco, leader of CTEK Artes Marciales (Comunidad Transformadora en Evolución Karate). From elite seminars to thrilling cage battles, the weekend became one of Mexico’s top martial arts showcases.
Elite Seminars Set the Stage
TThe event began on Friday, November 7, with top-level martial arts seminars that inspired and educated all who attended.
National and international champion Héctor Solorio opened the program with a powerful Point Fight seminar. He shared precision-based techniques and strategies proven in global competition. His emphasis on timing, control, and mindset motivated over 50 participants to elevate their skills.
Afterward, Dodger Montaño, pioneer of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Mexico and a former UFC fighter, led an impactful Masterclass. He explained how to balance aggression with strategy and transition smoothly from striking to ground combat. As the evening ended, excitement for the weekend’s battles was already building.
Saturday’s Tatami Battles Showcase Unity and Skill
By Saturday, November 8, Gimnasio G-2 had transformed into a vibrant martial arts arena. The setup featured 15 tatamis, large LED screens, computerized scoring systems, and a dedicated 15-member medical team. As a result, the event ran with flawless precision.
Competitors from more than 80 martial arts schools filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of teamwork and respect. Children as young as four showed remarkable courage and discipline. Each received commemorative medals engraved with “Antes de que nos Olviden Haremos Historia.”
Meanwhile, the Acuario Michin CDMX rewarded young champions with exciting prizes. Between matches, spectacular breaking demos and trick battles (extreme kicking exhibitions) energized the audience. The entire day celebrated skill, dedication, and family spirit.
Sunday Fights: The Roar of the Cage
The final day shifted gears into high-contact action. The tatamis gave way to two MMA cages, setting the stage for MMA, Kickboxing, and Boxing showdowns. Youth MMA bouts emphasized safety and technical skill, while advanced fighters electrified the crowd with full-contact battles that showcased both power and finesse.
Victors walked away with championship belts, symbolizing their dominance at one of Mexico’s most organized and respected martial arts events.
As Sensei Eric Velasco confirmed, the vision behind Never Back Down is clear: to elevate martial arts events in Mexico with world-class organization and respect for every athlete. He promised that Never Back Down 2026 will be even bigger, stronger, and more unforgettable.
A Vision for the Future
According to Sensei Eric Velasco, the goal of Never Back Down is clear: to raise the standard of martial arts events in Mexico. He aims to combine professionalism, respect, and passion in every edition.
Furthermore, Velasco announced that Never Back Down 2026 will expand even further. It promises to be bigger, more dynamic, and truly unforgettable — continuing to strengthen the legacy of martial arts across Mexico.
This story originally appeared on on the following news post, click HERE to see more pictures of this event
