By Slap News | April 2025
After two action-packed days inside the UFC Apex, Power Slap’s first-ever Athlete Combine and Training Camp wrapped with one clear takeaway: the future of the sport is in good hands. And helping mold that future was reigning light heavyweight champ Anthony “Babyface” Blackburn, one of three elite coaches brought in to guide the next generation of strikers.
“It’s a start to something really cool,” Blackburn said. “This is the blueprint.”
Day Two: Mind Over Muscle
While Day One focused on form, stance, and technique, Day Two flipped the focus to the mental and professional side of the game. From nutrition seminars and media coaching to PR training and rules education led by Mark Smith, it was all about building smarter, safer, and more marketable athletes.
“They brought a TV in and broke down film with us,” Blackburn explained. “Mark Smith showed the Crazy Hawaiian vs. Dumpling and pointed out what we’re moving away from. These camps are designed so guys come in clean and have success.”
Among the “clean” examples? A textbook knockout from Wolverine against KO Chris Thomas—a masterclass in balance, technique, and legal striking without lifting the feet.
Standouts from the Combine
When asked who impressed him most, Blackburn didn’t hesitate:
“Zach Lansing. Big super heavyweight. He’s built like McKinney Manu—massive thighs, powerlifting frame. But what impressed me most was his attitude. He sought out every coach, asked questions, showed improvement every hour.”
He also praised an unnamed international striker who started slow but “unlocked something” on Day Two after struggling to find power and rhythm on Day One.
“He came in with a button-up. Erica handed him a Power Slap long-sleeve,” Blackburn laughed. “By Day Two, he was ripping it. Night and day improvement.”
Reflections and Advice
Blackburn was impressed with how the twenty-plus athletes rotated through three distinct coaching pods, noting that each coach brought unique insights and energy to the table. He praised Erica for pushing to structure camps around diverse coaching strengths and said the two-day format is a solid baseline for future combines.
His message to future invitees?
“Come hungry. Come ready to learn. Leave the ego at home and soak up everything. This isn’t just about hitting hard—it’s about being a professional.”
What’s Next for Babyface?
With the light heavyweight division heating up and new blood on the horizon, the champ remains focused on legacy—and helping grow the sport from the inside out.
“The more tools these athletes have, the better the show we put on. And that’s what it’s all about.”
Slap News will continue to bring exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage from Power Slap’s athlete pipeline as new talent rises to the table.