Fans and training partners are coming together to help MMA athlete Alana McLaughlin secure essential corner support for her upcoming matchup in Seattle, Washington, on March 7.
McLaughlin’s opponent is coach Abbie from Red Panda Muay Thai. You might’ve heard about Abby when Gordon Ryan called her out for approach to consent that’s going against the grain of martial arts.
Gordon Ryan, known for his dominance in BJJ and outspoken personality, recently mocked a video from Red Panda Muay Thai, where coaches emphasized asking for explicit consent before physically correcting a student’s technique. The Seattle-based gym framed this approach as a way to build trust and empower students, but Ryan found it laughable in a combat sports setting, where physical contact is inherent. Sharing the video with a sarcastic caption, he highlighted the irony of prioritizing consent in a sport centered around controlled violence. His critique resonated with many in the martial arts community, reinforcing the belief that traditional training requires toughness and adaptability. However, Ryan’s stance on this contrasts with his own advocacy for PED use in BJJ while criticizing transgender participation in sports, exposing a contradiction in his views on fairness and natural competition.
McLaughlin, who trains with Foundation Chicago, has been diligently preparing for competition since her successful debut in 2021. Now, she’s set to headline a special event focused on providing opportunities for queer athletes and their allies.
While McLaughlin is determined to compete regardless of circumstances, her team is working to ensure she has proper corner support. Through Pilsen Defense & Access, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization supporting Foundation Chicago’s programs, fundraising efforts are underway to cover travel expenses for her coaches.
“Having a coach who knows you, can properly warm you up, and tend to you immediately before and after the competition as well as in between rounds is a sacred part of competing and Alana deserves that,” stated a team representative.
The fundraising goal is modest – approximately $800 would cover round-trip economy airfare for one coach. The coaches are volunteering their time without compensation, focusing solely on providing McLaughlin with essential support during the event.
Contributors to the fundraising campaign can receive various rewards based on their donation level, including personal messages from McLaughlin and autographed memorabilia. Additionally, donations will help support corner assistance for two of McLaughlin’s Foundation Chicago teammates who are also scheduled to compete at the event.
