First amputee to compete on U.S.A. MMA Team

Short Summary

My name is Matt Betzold, I go by many titles, such as husband, dad, amputee, cage fighter.  These titles make up the very core of who I am. I lost my leg when I was 6-years-old, due to someone poisoning some candy that they gave to me. I used to street fight often, but got myself on the straight and narrow in high-school by joining an MMA gym. I wanted to fight MMA, and I trained years to do it, but it wasn't that easy.  I fought battle after battle just to get the right to step in the cage because people believed I couldn't handle myself.  I was finally allowed to fight, and became the first amputee to fight in a sanctioned MMA match, and now I hold the World Fighting Federation's Flyweight Title.  

Along with MMA, I have actively competed in the grappling world for 10 years, and now hold a grappling record of 150 wins and 29 losses.  I have represented the U.S. Grappling Team twice, taking 2nd in the Worlds.  I now have the opportunity to represent the U.S. MMA Team.  I fought for my position on the team and took it in April of this year.  I need to raise the funds to get myself to Russia to compete in the FILA 2012 Senior World Championships, where I will not only become the first amputee to fight on the U.S. MMA Team, but also the first to bring home the gold.

What We Need & What You Get

I need to raise $2700 to get myself to Russia to compete, and to assist with costs of finishing up my training camp.  I have been putting all of my focus into training for this competition so that I can come home with the gold. I want to, once and for all, break down all preconceived notions of what an amputee is capable of.

I can promise all of the donors that I will train and fight with everything I have, and that they will be an integral part to me reaching this goal.  

If any donors wish to make a larger contribution, I could wear company shirts or patches while I'm in Russia competing. Just get in contact with me on my Facebook, so we can work something out.  I am also open to suggestions if they have any other requests.  

The Impact

All of these tournaments and MMA fights I win are not just a victory for me and my family.  I am out to show people that you can always do anything you set your mind to if you want it bad enough and you work hard enough.  I currently work with different people, including our country's servicemen to help them overcome their physical and mental challenges.  I want to help the soldier who came home with a missing limb to know that he can still be just as good in combat as he was before, or the child who gets picked on for being different to own his differences and not hide from them; for everyone in between who doubts themselves to know that we are all only as capable as we allow ourselves to be. 

Other Ways You Can Help

I understand that times are tough right now, and everyone might not be able to donate.  However, it would be extremely appreciated if you could spread the word, and share this with everyone you know.  Thank you for taking the time to read this, I am extremely grateful for any help or contributions.