UFC star Kai Kara-France, a lifelong fan of the New Zealand Warriors, is set to face off against Australian fighter Steve Erceg at UFC 305 in Perth this weekend. Kara-France, currently ranked fourth globally in the flyweight division, is excited about playing the role of the villain in this matchup.
Kara-France’s connection with the Warriors began last year when former NRL player Adam Blair recommended him to the team. Despite never having played rugby league, Kara-France eagerly accepted the opportunity to join the Warriors as a wrestling coach. He has since been working closely with key players like Shaun Johnson, Addin Fonua-Blake, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, focusing on improving their wrestling techniques.
For Kara-France, being part of the Warriors’ coaching staff has been a dream come true. He grew up watching the team, and although he didn’t play rugby league, he has always admired the sport. His role with the Warriors is to teach the players efficient movement and body awareness, crucial skills in wrestling that can also benefit them on the rugby field. Kara-France is optimistic about the Warriors’ prospects, hoping his contributions can help them secure a premiership.
Kara-France’s journey has not been without challenges. He experienced nausea, dizziness, and headaches, which led him to consult with the Warriors’ neurologist, Dr. James Cunningham. After undergoing cognitive tests, it was determined that Kara-France needed to take a break from intense training. He started with short walks, gradually progressing to jogging, weight training, and eventually, full-contact sparring.
In addition to his coaching duties, Kara-France participated in the Warriors’ pre-season fitness program, further solidifying his bond with the team. Despite the challenges he faced, he has returned to peak condition and is ready for the upcoming fight against Erceg.
Kara-France acknowledges that the Warriors’ players are avid fans of fighting and the UFC, which has created a mutual respect between him and the team. As he prepares to step into the octagon in Perth, he is confident that his Warrior teammates will be cheering him on, even as he plays the role of the villain in front of Erceg’s home crowd.
In summary, Kai Kara-France’s involvement with the New Zealand Warriors has been a significant chapter in his life, combining his love for the team with his expertise in wrestling. Now, as he faces Steve Erceg at UFC 305, he is ready to embrace the challenge and represent both himself and his Warriors family in the octagon.
