By: King Eddie-Managing Editor

Karl Santiago is from Waimanalo. His stepfather was a military man, so the family had to make a move to Cali and away from his home of Hawaii. Instead of viewing it negatively, he took the steps to utilize his surroundings in California to make his dream career of MMA a reality. Karl will be competing in an event called "Cage vs Cons II" this weekend in Pico Rivera, California.

This matchup will be Santiago's third pro MMA bout and hopefully his third consecutive win. In an interview with MMA Hawaii, Karl stressed the importance of representing island fighters in the mainland. He also gave us a little insight on the general idea of Hawaii fighters by mainland competition.

"They always say Hawaii boys get the biggest heart and that they just bang. I guess it's in our blood though. We all have that warrior mentality."

Santiago is a replacement fighter on this card but doesn't plan to let his opponent outclass him. He believes that his commitment to training all aspects of his game, will lead him to a victory over the wrestler.

" I want to knock him out. My hands are my strength, and if not my hands then I will chop his legs up. My striking and my heart are my best tools."

Karl Santiago may not be competing here in Hawaii, but he has the full support of the entire Hawaii MMA family. Good luck Karl, we are all proud of you.

Read more about Karl Santiago in an upcoming issue of MMA Hawaii Magazine.