The Northern Cartel : Spenna Nostra - mixed martial arts training

After training with the Don on July 10, the unrefusable offer to train was once again extended to the travelling trio the following week and another hard training session ensued. The following day, Cartel members descended on the Quannum gym for another three hour session of grappling and striking; since the first article appeared on SFUK, many people are asking the question ‘who or what is The Northern Cartel?

Fisher scaring Andy Butlin

The Northern Cartel are a collection of clubs who are regularly cross training together and travel around the Manchester/Yorkshire area every week; although originally tongue in cheek, the name sprung up after the christening of the Mighty Spenna who now travels under the name of the Godfather of Northern MMA. Cartel members fight in MMA events as well as BJJ and SW events all over the UK and are rising through the ranks of amateur and semi pro before hitting the pro scene and will soon be fighting outside the UK in many top name events. The clubs involved in the Cartel are Neil Hall’s Fighting Chance Academy, Darren Currie’s Combat Base Gym, Gracie Barra Manchester, Ian Butlin’s Quannum Gym, Danny Wallace’s Team Colleseum, Kickers Academy and the Don himself. The thirst to cross train and explore other areas of training have lead some of the members into the freestyle wrestling arena, regularly training in Shipley and at Apsull under the tutelage of the legendary Roy Wood, the last night watchman of the Snake Pit in Wigan.

Air - Ron

The Cartel is a shining example of what can be achieved when ego and attitude are left outside the gym and everyone trains together regardless of association; strikers are learning the ground game and like wise grapplers are stepping into the boxing ring and with all areas of cross training covered, the Cartel fighters are emerging as some of the most well rounded fighters in the UK.

The Butlins - next generation of top fighters

For more info on the Cartel clubs, check the SFUK club directory, as the Don is a very busy man - keep your eyes peeled for future reports and fighter profiles.