Desert Hot Springs youth MMA athletes recognized by Congressman Ruiz for overseas success

A handful of high school mixed martial artists were honored on Thursday for their recent success at the 2021 IMMAF Youth MMA World Championships.

Special moment here in Desert Hot Springs, Congressman Raul Ruiz honoring MMA standouts after bringing home medals🏅 from an overseas competition. We’ll have more tonight on @KESQ @BlakeArthur24 pic.twitter.com/rQSKgpykeJ

— Bailey Arredondo (@baileyarredondo) August 26, 2021

Hannah Wagstaff, Irann Orozco, Allison Keenan and Andrea Frisque were the four local athletes to compete overseas and bring home some hardware.

"They're role models, they're leaders, they've accomplished that most people won't in their life and I'm just so excited to follow their careers," said Congressman Ruiz.

Three of the girls were in attendance to receive recognition, along with their Sensei, Eddie Bates.

"Not only is it about the medals to me but it's the progression of their lives into adulthood. They're amazing teenagers, progressing very well and make me very proud," said Bates.