By Slap News | April 2025
From battling kidney failure as a child to maxing out neck force machines as a grown man, Zak Lansing’s journey into Power Slap isn’t just a debut story — it’s a redemption arc.
The Manchester, New Hampshire native just wrapped up Power Slap’s first-ever Combine in Las Vegas, and while his slaps might have missed the center of the cube on Day 1, his presence left a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
“Honestly, it was a dream to get flown out,” Lansing told Slap News. “They treated me great, the coaches were amazing, and I learned a lot.”
Destined for Combat
Growing up sick, Lansing was once a Make-A-Wish kid, and his request? Meet Cain Velasquez and attend a UFC event in Las Vegas.
“That trip changed my life,” he said. “It made me fall in love with combat sports.”
Now at 27 years old, Zak is back in Vegas chasing another dream — but this time as an athlete himself, hoping to sign with Power Slap.
“I met Dana White as a kid. I plan to meet him again as an adult — this time as a fighter.”
The Super Heavyweight With Surprising Agility
Lansing clocks in as one of the biggest Combine participants — but don’t let the size fool you. He’s got flexibility most linemen dream of.
“I do yoga regularly. I can do a full split.”
Yes, you read that right. Zak Lansing — a super heavyweight — can do a full split. That combination of power and flexibility makes him a unique threat among the big men of Power Slap.
Combine Numbers: Maxed Out Neck Force
Zak may have missed the sweet spot on the Power Cube, but when it came to the neck strength machine?
“I maxed it out at 600. That was a win.”
That neck durability will come in handy when he inevitably eats his first slap inside the Power Slap arena. “I know what I’m signing up for,” he said. “I’m ready.”
Inspired by the Greats, Trained by the Best
The Combine was loaded with Power Slap legends — Robert Trujillo, Anthony Blackburn, Wolverine — all offering mentorship and real-time technical coaching.
“I couldn’t ask for better coaches,” Lansing said. “Wolverine especially — he’s cold, calm, collected. I was just watching his demeanor, trying to learn everything.”
Even Mark Smith, the lead referee and official with the Nevada State Athletic Commission, stopped by to review rules and ensure the new wave of athletes understood the complexity behind slap fighting.
“Keeping your feet on the floor — it sounds easy. But at my size, with the torque I generate, that’s something I’ll be focusing on.”
Who’s On Zak’s Radar?
Without hesitation, Lansing pointed to one of the sport’s earliest and most recognizable super heavyweights.
“Give me Slap For Cash,” he said with a grin. “No disrespect, but I’m down for anyone. I’m ready to throw with anybody that walks this earth.”
Waiting for the Call from Erica
Zak is back home now, sore from two days of nonstop slapping, but already back in his regular training groove. He says he trains six days a week, keeps a clean diet, and hits yoga to maintain flexibility.
“I’m just gonna do what I do. And if Erica calls, I’m ready.”
Follow the Journey
Zak just launched his Instagram:
📲 @ZakLansing (Zak with a K)
“Follow me through this crazy journey. From Make-A-Wish to Power Slap — this is destiny.”
Slap News will be watching closely to see if this New England powerhouse with split-level agility earns that first contract and makes his long-awaited walk to the table.