Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

BOGALUSA, La. – Joseph Yarbrough, a 21-year-old MMA fighter, won his debut match in the Caged Warrior Championship 30 held in Thibodaux on Oct. 7th by knocking out Timoteo Lopez just 2 minutes and 44 seconds into the first round. 

Despite the pressure of his first professional fight, Yarbrough remained calm and focused. He stated that when the lights turned on, his hands were wrapped, and the cage was shut, all eyes were on him. However, instead of feeling nervous, he was more excited to compete. Yarbrough competed in the 160 lbs lightweight division and is currently ranked 34th on the Louisiana Amateur Lightweight list.

Yarbrough explained that he is taking a break to recover and give his body time to heal. He emphasized that he wants to be fully prepared for his next match and to resume his diet and training regimen once the fair ends. In the meantime, he is looking forward to enjoying the Washington Parish Free Fair, mentioning that it’s perfect timing that the fair is taking place after his fight and not before.

“I’m just ready to get back out there,” he said. “It’s where I’m the happiest.” When it comes to young people interested in pursuing MMA, he advises, “If you are willing to put in the work, then you can do it.” Yarbrough said it is vital to have a support system. For him, his coaches, Preston Thigpen and Kurt Holobaugh, are what have kept him in shape and doing so well. “I train alongside them and they are some of the best in the area.”

Yarbrough’s dedication to his hometown is evident in his choice of sponsors, with all being local. These sponsors may change for each fight, but Yarbrough noted that locals are always at the top of his list, saying, “It’s only right that I support the area I grew up in because they supported me.” 

“I don’t have a manager,” Yarbrough said. “It’s all me for right now because I’m trying to do this the right way.” His commitment to his community and his passion for his sport will make him a fan favorite in the future. Look for Joseph Yarborough on the pay-per-view site bxingtv.com.