Matador wrestling club opens in Yuma, bringing community together

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - For years, wrestling in Yuma has been split across different schools and programs. But this weekend, that changed with the grand opening of the Matador Wrestling Club a new hub designed to unify athletes and give them a place to grow.

More than 100 wrestlers, ages five through nineteen, packed the mats for a full day of training and live action.

For Somerton native Pepe Moreno, a former Arizona State champion and longtime coach, it marked the start of something bigger than one gym.

"They can get off the wrestling train whenever they want to, but the opportunity is going to be here," Moreno said. "We're gonna make it the best journey possible, and if you want to take it all the way, that opportunity is here."

Among those lending support was Kelvin Gastelum, a UFC star and Cibola High School state champion who credits Moreno with shaping his career.

"Usually these wrestling clubs are all doing their own thing in Somerton, San Luis, the Foothills, and Yuma," Gastelum said. "I like that all of us are coming together, working together, bringing all the kids in the city together."

For Gastelum, seeing his former coach lead this effort was especially meaningful.

"One of the founders is Pepe Moreno, my high school coach. If it wasn't for him, a lot of us wouldn't be here," Gastelum said. "I'm just so happy he's creating something like this for the City of Yuma."

Also helping guide the program is Chance Farrar, a former professional fighter and volunteer coach, who has been working for years to expand opportunities for local wrestlers.

"My goal for these athletes is to give them opportunities to wrestle in college," Farrar said. "I know we can do that by putting coaches together, putting athletes together, and creating that environment."

Farrar added that while rivalries have long divided the wrestling community, this club is about setting those aside.

"We all knew it was needed, but we just couldn't bring ourselves to ask each other to join forces," Farrar said. "We're not here to push anyone to any particular school...we're just here to help athletes on their journey."

With championship-level coaches, UFC experience, and support from across the region, the Matador Wrestling Club hopes to become the center of wrestling in Yuma and inspire the next generation to chase greatness on and off the mat.