Tough time for local MMA fighter at amateur champs
Schaper didn’t only take part in the event himself, but also as a trainer, and had two athletes compete at youth level.
Jesse Schaper, former Benoni High School learner and Boksburg resident, recently took part in two mixed martial arts (MMA) fights at the South African MMA amateur championships in Sebenza, Edenvale.
“Fight one was very good as I won via a rear-naked choke in round one against the Eastern Cape champion Athenkosi Mongwe,” said Schaper.
“Fight two was not very good though as I lost via a rear-naked choke in round two against the Gauteng champion and overall SA champion Nathaniel Komana.
“Both fighters were tough and I had to put in a lot of focus during these fights.”
Schaper felt that he was a lot more prepared mentally for his first fight and thus performed better than in his second fight.
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“The second fight I was a lot more fatigued than I expected and my opponent was very experienced,” he said.
“Unfortunately, I had no more energy to execute my intended game plan, thus showing I was unprepared for that fight. Regardless of the results, it was an amazing event to be a part of.”
The event took place over three days, with weigh-in taking place every morning.
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“My main support system other than my team was my girlfriend and daughter,” he said.
“Both my girlfriend and daughter accompanied me to the weigh-ins and remained at the venue in the car while I competed due to no spectators being allowed because of Covid.
“Amber made sure I was always ready and everything I needed was on hand. I would not have been able to do it without them, they are why I fight.”
Profile Doors was thanked by Schaper as their sponsorship supported the athlete.
“They really made a massive difference,” he said.
“The owner of Profile Doors is a close friend of mine and has supported me as an athlete and my dream to be a world champion since I met him.
“He has helped me with everything I have needed, so a massive thank you to Profile Doors.”
Schaper didn’t only take part in the event himself but as a trainer. He had two athletes compete at the youth level.
“Both of them placed first in their divisions. I did not get to see them compete, but I am very proud of them for placing first.”
Schaper is dealing with his body being riddled with injuries so his next fight is still being determined.
“Overall, the event was wonderful to be a part of,” said Schaper.
“It’s always been a dream to compete in a tournament and it was a lot harder than I thought. I didn’t get the result I wanted but a lot of lessons were learnt. I have grown tremendously not only as a mixed martial artist but as a person as well.
“I will be back in the cage soon but for now I’m going to focus on my gym work, fitness and being more involved in community outreach programs. I want to organise white collar events to entertain and hopefully inform the community of Benoni.”
