Whitefish fighter wins martial arts title

Whitefish mixed martial arts competitor Hamilton Ash took the 155-pound title at the Fusion Fight League Rumble Under the Rim last month in Billings.

Ash, head coach at Straight Blast Gym in Whitefish, was one of 26 fighters from across the Pacific Northwest showcased in the event.

Ash’s opponent, Ben Lugo, traveled from Fort Collins, Colo., where he trains at Z’s Training Gym.

The title bout was scheduled for five rounds, but Ash only needed one. He controlled the fight from the opening bell, stalking his opponent and looking for opportunities.

After landing a successful head kick, Ash clinched with Lugo against the cage and ultimately secured a take down. From there he quickly transitioned to mount, showcasing his skills in grappling and jiu jitsu.

The referee stopped the fight at 2:30 in the first round, giving Ash the win by TKO.

Ash is the fifth fighter from Straight Blast Gym of Montana to earn a title belt.