From an Orphanage in Tijuana to the Big Stage

Helping two teenage MMA athletes from an orphanage in Tijuana travel to Mexico City to compete, train, and take the next step in their fighting careers.

Tijuana is a major combat sports city, known for producing successful MMA and jiu-jitsu athletes who compete nationally and internationally.

Through a recent project in Tijuana, we connected with a local orphanage that uses martial arts as a tool for structure, discipline, and growth for its teenagers.

Two of these teens are already actively training MMA and jiu-jitsu, have won competitions, and are considered some of the strongest young athletes coming out of their gym. They’ve now been invited to compete in a tournament in Mexico City on February 14.

Beyond the competition itself, they’ve been given the opportunity to stay in Mexico City for approximately two weeks, where they can experience fight week, train, and be around high-level professional athletes competing in MMA and jiu-jitsu.

These teenagers have lived their entire lives in an orphanage and have never traveled outside of their region. For them, this trip represents far more than a competition — it’s exposure, belief, and a real glimpse at what their future could look like through martial arts.

Their tournament registration is already covered. What they need support with is travel and lodging.

All funds raised will go directly toward:

• Flights from Tijuana to Mexico City

• Lodging during their stay

• Basic needs while training and competing

Martial arts changed their lives once already. This opportunity could help change them again.