Local MMA fighter pursuing dream after life-changing event
It was the morning of July 5th, 2016; Gareth De La Cruz one of the top local up and coming MMA fighters was invited to a prestigious Las Vegas showcase.
He expected to take the next step in his career, but at 7 a.m. after 3-weeks missing, his brother Joseles Dela Cruz-Ornelas’s body was found.
“Invited back again the day they found my brothers body, I will never forget that day. I flew the next day to Vegas, I knew my brother at the same time would have said to follow your dreams and do what you love.”
With his brother’s memory always on his mind, De La Cruz has lit a spark on his career proving age is just a number.
“I am going to be 35, I feel like I am about to peak. I feel really good, my conditioning. I feel like I am 18.”
“Gareth puts in too much hard work. Age is not a number for him at all, he rolls like he is 20.”
One of the many examples of a sport and a dream changing ones life, plus reminding others that it is never too late.
“Tru MMA changed my life. I used to be into drugs, drinking and partying everyday. Without MMA I don’t think I would be here today. This is what I do, started as a hobby but I got hooked right away. Just like if I was on drugs or something.”
