FIGHTING BOTH IN AND OUT OF THE CAGE: TUF 15 CONTESTANT, MIAMI'S OWN MIKE 'THE WOLVERINE' RIO GOES HEAD TO HEAD WITH AUTISM

A couple weeks ago I learned of a Pro MMA fighter out of Miami, that had earned himself a spot in this season's TUF 15 LIVE. His name is Mike 'The Wolverine' Rio. On further research I came to find that Rio is no slouch when it comes to the work he does in the cage. His record speaks for itself. However, up and coming MMA fighters are a dime a dozen these days. What makes Mike Rio so special is that he's taken on a bigger fight outside the cage. This fight has no time limit, no rounds, no time to rest, no getting saved by the bell. Mike Rio has made the choice to go head to head, no holds barred with autism. I was lucky enough to come in contact with with someone that is up close and personal with The Wolverine and asked her to send me details about Mike and where this drive to fight autism comes from. Below is what she wrote me:

March 27, 2012

Mike Rio: aka “The Wolverine” was born and raised in Miami to Cuban parents. He started wrestling at the age of 14. Mike was a two time High School State Champion, a three time College National Champion & 2005-2006 National “MVP”. His MMA record was 8Wins-1Loss-0draws. His only loss went all 3 rounds and by Unanimous Decision to ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ Season 8 Winner, Efrain Escudero.

Mike’s hard work, dedication & passion to the sport he loves so much, Earned him a spot on the 2012 Ultimate Fighter Live Season Premier. He won his fight on the show and advanced to the Ultimate Fighter House. Mike Rio fans, you can watch him live, every Friday on FX at 10pm.

One of Mike’s brothers Steven, who is now 19 was diagnosed with Autism at the age of three. When Steven was growing up Mike wasn’t around much because of his dedication to his wrestling & work  but he always admired his brother because all the struggles and heartache Steven went through in school and in life growing up, Mike always was understanding to Steven’s needs, and helped him in any way he could.

Steven asked Mike to volunteer at his School’s Career Day “A school for children with disabilities” and in a heartbeat Mike said yes; he would love to. Mike went to Steven’s school and sat in the class room with these teenagers, All with different forms of Autism & Disabilities, Mike spoke to them for hours also showed them some wrestling moves and stuff. The kids had a blast and he had a great time with them all.

Mike really took this to heart, So he decided he needed to do something to help kids with Autism, So he had the red wristbands made and putting his name on them, he knew his fans, friends & family would help & support …Miami’s favorite MMA Fighter “MIKE RIO” and at the same time, get the word out to  “HELP FIND A CURE FOR AUTISM” so he decided by selling the wristbands for $1 or $2 or whatever anyone wanted to give, he would donate all proceeds of the wristband sales to Autism Speaks. He also created a link on Facebook for Autism Speaks; and again asks all his fans friends & family to donate $5, $10 or anything, anything to help him get donations, No amount was too small, any little bit regardless how little it was would help. As of today they have donated to Mike’s Autism Link $720.00. Mikes Autism Link

Mike is very proud of Steven, because his brother is also a fighter but not in the cage, a fighter in life and a true champ. Steven has overcome a lot of his struggles & difficulties and has graduated from high school and on his way to Miami Dade College.

I am very proud of both my fighters!
Annette Rodriguez: aka (Mike & Steven’s mom)

Thanks Annette for sending me the info. Please show support for fellow Floridians, Mike and his brother Steven and order your Mike 'The Wolverine' Rio wristband. Get your wristband here: Mikes Autism Link Don't forget to catch Mike on TUF 15 Live, Friday nights on FX at 10pm. Find Mike on facebook at Mike Rio "The Wolverine" Fan Page and twitter @MikeRioMMA. There is also a TUF15 discussion here on the forum that for the most part revolves around Mike being on the show. If you want to join in the discussion go here Mike Rio on Tuf 15 live Faber/Cruz. Questions about how to get you Mike Rio wristband or comments can be left in the comment box below.

-Keni Kenni
facebook.com/floridafighter

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