In June 2023, the whole of Oberhausen fell into fight fever, and the visitors to Westfield Centro were able to join in the fun as the Oktagon organisation presented itself in the mall’s Mitteldom to draw attention to its first mixed martial arts event in the neighbouring Rudolf Weber Arena. Fighters and organisers were promoting their sport the day before the event with on-stage attractions and an exciting programme of events including self-proclaimed modern-day gladiators competing spectacularly for victory using a wide range of martial arts techniques.

Weigh-ins and duels

As befitted this high-impact attraction, Oktagon had a major presence in the central promotion area, with a prominent stage, professional presenters and a camera team broadcasting the warm-up event live over the Internet. Even before the stage programme got underway, the Mitteldom was filled with curious visitors and fans waiting to see the muscular athletes up close.

One special highlight for all martial arts fans – and those whose interest was piqued – came right at the start of the initiative: a public training session on-stage which saw competitors engaging in some light sparring to prepare for their duels. For spectators, this was a good opportunity to get their first taste of the martial arts spectacle that was to ensue the following day, and for newcomers it was an opportunity to get a taste of the world of MMA.