Roan Crocker has brought home a Silver medal for Wales with four wins in five days at the IMMAF world championships.
One Man Team
Roan made the journey to Serbia as the only representative for Wales without his coaching team. In the absence of a team behind him, Roan’s father could be seen passionately supporting him and waving the flag for Wales in the arena. Having competed at a junior level in previous IMMAF tournaments, Roan was no stranger to the challenge ahead. Crocker usually competes at middleweight, where he currently holds the Cage Warriors Academy Wales title. However, with daily weigh-ins, Roan decided to move up to the light-heavyweight division. With five fights in five days, the pressure was on for the burgeoning prospect.
The Path to Podium – Roan Crocker at the IMMAF Championships
First Day – Roan defeats team USA via second-round submission
Second Day – Roan defeats team Spain via first-round submission
Third Day – Roan defeats team Angola via unanimous decision
Fourth Day – Roan defeats team Serbia via unanimous decision
Fifth Day – Roan loses to team Ukraine via unanimous decision
The Future
Despite losing his last bout, a silver medal position has solidified Roan as the second-best amateur in the world. Having now achieved seemingly all his amateur MMA aspirations. Crocker looks forward to entering 2024 as the “total package fighter” with the pro ranks in his sights. Roan currently holds the Cage Warriors Academy Wales middleweight title, it is unclear whether he will defend this again in 2023. The journey ahead for himself and his supporters looks to be a bright one. As Roan looks to close one chapter and enter another, he will enter his professional career with a storied amateur background. IMMAF Jr European Champion, Cage Warriors Academy Middleweight Champion, 3x BJJ British Champion, and now Silver medallist at the IMMAF World Championships- quite the resume!
Featured image credits to IMMAF
