A Canadian Dream Come True
For Canadian striker Vince Tracey, Power Slap 16 in Abu Dhabi is more than just another fight — it’s a dream realized. “It’s always been a dream of mine to fight in Abu Dhabi,” Vince said. “And to be standing across from Andrew Fields, that’s an honor. He’s an OG of the sport. I was a fan of his before I was even signed to the roster.”
Tracey, who enters the event with a perfect 3–0 record, sees Fields as both a challenge and an opportunity. “He’s fought a lot of guys I hope to fight one day,” he said. “He’s a technician with durability and a chin — and so am I. This has all the makings of the people’s match of the night.”
Respecting the Challenge
Fields, a Power Slap veteran known for his experience and grit, represents Tracey’s biggest test to date. “He’s a big step up in competition,” Tracey admitted. “He’s been here since the early days — even before Power Slap officially started. He’s always improving, defensively and offensively, and that’s what makes this such an exciting matchup.”
Despite that, Vince isn’t backing down. “I told the brass I want to fight the best of the best,” he said. “And they delivered. This fight is exactly what I wanted — a chance to prove myself against one of the sport’s true pioneers.”
Weight Class Adjustment and Health First
Originally scheduled at 155 pounds, the matchup was moved to 170 pounds after Tracey’s medical team flagged potential health risks. “I had to run some tests, and the results weren’t great,” he explained. “My coach, my wife, and my doctor all agreed it wasn’t safe to make 155 right now. I tried to push for it, but they made me realize I was heading into red light territory.”
Tracey, a father of two with another child on the way, put his health and family first. “It wasn’t an easy call,” he said. “I felt like I was going back on my word, but in the end, it was about longevity. I’m grateful Andrew accepted the fight at 170. I’ll make 155 in the future — I just need more time to adapt and do it safely.”
The Road from Underdog to Contender
When Tracey faced Tyler Gross, many fans saw him as the underdog. But that perception changed quickly. “I think the community viewed me as the underdog, for sure,” he said. “But I showed my grit and determination. I got hit hard, went into zombie mode, and still came back to finish the fight.”
That comeback performance, capped off with a knockout win, earned Tracey newfound respect across the Power Slap world. Now, he’s ready to show that it wasn’t a one-time moment. “Andrew’s tough, but I’ve seen little openings in his game. I plan to capitalize on those,” he said. “He’s got KO power and experience — but I believe I’m at that elite level now.”
Keys to Victory
For Vince, success on October 24 will depend on mental strength as much as physical preparation. “I can’t let the pressure of the moment get to me,” he said. “This is my first live main card fight, first time feeling the full crowd and the energy. I’ve just got to grit it out, trust my power, and stick to the game plan.”
He knows that a tough fight is ahead, but he welcomes it. “I might have to eat a few hard shots,” he said. “But if anyone’s going to put him down, it’s going to be me. Once I hit him and see how he reacts, my confidence is going to go through the roof.”
Eyes on the Future
Even as he prepares for his biggest test, Tracey sees this as just the beginning. “I’m only getting started,” he said. “The cameras, the lights — they don’t bother me anymore. I’m working on being not just a great striker but a showman. I want to entertain and perform at a championship level.”
He believes a title run is inevitable. “I truly think I can be a world champion one day,” he said. “It’s just about following the plan, staying disciplined, and putting everything I have into it.”
A Message to Andrew Fields
“Andrew, I appreciate you taking the fight at 170 and apologize for the weight change. Let’s go out there and put on the fight of the night for the fans. You bring it, I’ll bring it, and let’s give everyone in Abu Dhabi a show they’ll never forget.”