BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- At first glance, it looks like just another day of training for fighters at The Crows Nest MMA in Binghamton, but what's ahead for the two is perhaps their most anticipated event yet.
They will compete professionally in New York for the very first time.
"Previously we had to travel to a much further field either to Pennsylvania or to Boston or something so being able to be on a high profile fight card locally would be a really great opportunity," said James Rodriguez, The Crows Nest MMA owner and professional mixed martial arts fighter.
For Chris Torres, this will not only be his debut in the state, it will also be his first time competing as a pro.
He says his goal is not only to win the fight, but to put New York fighters on the map.
"New York has a great reputation for mixed martial artists. We have a few great pros from New York," Torres said. "I'm sure everyone knows that. It's nice being able to fight in our hometown and represent New York on a higher level."
While both fighters have had success across the country, they say there will be nothing better than stepping through the cage in their home state.
"It's a childhood dream," Torres said. "It's about eight or nine years of training and mixed martial arts. It's a big deal to me. I don't really do it for the money it's just more for personal goals and personal glory."
And fighters say the amount of training that goes into a fight is perhaps the most of any professional sport.
"These guys are in here all the time," Rodriguez said. "We're constantly working on all aspects of the game: Brazilian Jujitsu, Muy Thai, wrestling or boxing. All those skill sets take a really long time to master."
Both say entering the cage will not only be a win for them, it will be a win for the entire state.
The fighters will compete in the state for the first time on October 14th.
The event location has not yet been made public.