[PORK-FREE]
Punches and kicks fly fast and frenzied. It is not long, however, before one fighter gains an edge over the other, knocking and pinning him on the floor. He lands several blows on his opponent as audience members scream his name: is there going to be a knockout?
This dramatic scene unfolds at The Cage, a new local eatery at LaLaport Bukit Bintang City Centre that combines the joy of dining out with the thrill of martial arts. A fight octagon stands in the middle of the venue, welcoming anyone, amateur or professional, to fight here.
A tournament organised by Rage MMA Malaysia is taking place today during FMT Lifestyle’s visit, and the venue is packed with fighters, support teams and fans. The air is abuzz with anticipation as everyone prepares for the next bout.
According to co-founder Lua Yuan Hong, The Cage was set up to increase awareness of martial arts and combat sports in the country.
“Martial arts is one of the biggest-growing sports of the past decade, but it is still considered quite niche in Asia, the birthplace of many cool forms of martial art,” he explained.
“Many foreigners come to Asia to train, yet the majority of the public does not have much exposure to these sports.”
Another objective of The Cage, Lua added, is to promote local martial-arts talents. According to him, the country has many prominent athletes who have been recognised internationally for their combat-sports prowess. Yet, again, most people are not aware of their achievements.
Lua hopes, therefore, that The Cage will serve as a platform that encourages people to discover the thrill and joy of martial arts. The venue showcases fight performances, and usually hosts tournaments and events on weekends.
“We don’t charge organisers who have their events here; we make it easy for them to come in. They can let us know what they want to do, and we can work it out together,” said Lua, who used to be an amateur MMA fighter himself.
“If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be a fighter, this is the opportunity for you. Maybe you want to try how it feels spending three minutes in a round. Maybe you want to fight your friend or someone else.
“We can make it happen, and create a safe environment for you.”
Additionally, The Cage collaborates with local gyms and experienced fighters, who can serve as coaches or offer personal training.
Of course, there are those who prefer to watch fights rather than be in them. To that end, Lua said The Cage can simply be a fun place for folks to hang out with their friends.
Indeed, let’s not forget that it’s still an eatery! Most of the menu offerings are fusion cuisine with local touches, and everything is pork free.
Beef lovers will be fond of this place, too, as many dishes feature wagyu. Highlights include the shredded wagyu pizza, which comes doused in a tangy and delicious secret sauce.
The shredded wagyu egg fried rice may be too spicy for some, but it still packs a punch with its great mix of flavours.
Alcoholic offerings such as beer and stout are also available, while non-drinkers can cool off with sweet treats such as root beer and strawberry floats.
In the near future, Lua aims to hold more events at The Cage, and hopes visitors will come to feast or fight at the venue. Who knows, they may well discover a new sport to be passionate about!
“Some people have the conception that MMA is very brutal or rough. But here’s the real deal: most people who take it up are very disciplined and don’t just go around looking for fights.
“It’s actually a very beautiful art, and there’s a lot about it that everyone can enjoy,” he concluded.
Follow The Cage on Facebook and Instagram.
The Cage (PORK-FREE)
L1-68A, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport,
2 Jalan Hang Tuah, Bukit Bintang, Pudu,
55100 Kuala Lumpur
Business hours: 12pm-3pm, 5pm-10pm daily