ULTIMATE Warrior Challenge will be marking it's 10th birthday with the Battle of Essex.

Mixed martial arts fighers from around Europe will be gathering at Clements Hall Leisure Centre in Hawkwell on Saturday night for the latest edition of the long-running MMA promotion.

And co-founder and UWC chief executive officer Dan Burzotta is delighted to have seen the promotion grow over the years.

"I started UWC as to put something back into the sport as I have a real passion for MMA and also as a hobby," admitted the Southend-born promoter who is also chief coach at Westcliff-based Team Sure Grip.

"It is a labour of love for me and I love it because I have fighters from all over the world appearing on the cards these days.

"UWC really has grown over the 10 years since we started and has given a lot of people the chance to compete in MMA."

Many of the fighters in action at UWC shows have come through Team Sure Groip and Burzotta, who is a black belt in jiu jitsu and judo, says watching their progress is another source of satisfaction.

"They come into the gym and work hard and then get the chance to test their skills at the shows," added Burzotta. "It gives the guys something to aim for.

"But it's not all about competition. We have a lot of people from all walks of life who come into the gym who are stressed out because of work, and leave saying 'thanks, I am fully focused and recharged for tomorrow now'.

"And whether it's training someone for a show or lads coming in who have been bullied or are lacking in confidence and helping build up their confidence, it all makes it worthwhile."

Saturday's show sees Gregorz Kiawski take on Polish Olympic wrestling champion Marvin Adamaj in the main fight.

There will also be a full supporting card on a night featuring 16 or 17 bouts where fighters Lee Mayo and Jamie Westlake raising money for an ill youngster called Connor, who is battling against cancer.

It is the first time that UWC have presented a show at Clements Hall and doors open at 6pm, with the first fight due to start at 7.30pm.