San Francisco's Fight Club

It's amazing how clear things get when someone's fist is flying at your face.

Four shirtless guys watch from my left. I doubt they expect a good fight. At the same time, I'm wondering how I got here: facing a guy who outweighs me by 30 pounds and plans to beat the shit out of me in this cinder block basement.

But mostly I'm hoping he won't break my nose.

Then suddenly, like a car accident, a fist crashes into my ribs. In a strange way it's somewhat comforting. But only for a moment, because then...

...no wait. Back up. Let me start over here.

I'm your average Joe. Not tall, not short. Could be in better shape, could be worse. I'm not a cop or an ER doctor or some other profession that's exciting enough to merit a TV show. And while I hadn't fully become a slave to the Ikea Nesting Instinct, I do admit to once flipping through a catalog and wondering what kind of dining set defines me as a person. My life was becoming stagnant, like gutter water.

I am Jack's atrophying muscles.

Then, on a Website for activities in San Francisco, I came across this:

Fight Club SF. Trying to generate some more interest here! Last three fight clubs were great, we will be doing it again on December 30th. Please do not respond if you don't intend to show up. Serious inquiries only although questions will be answered happily.

All you need are grappling gloves, a mouth guard and a willingness to fight. Fighters are matched up according to weight. Everyone who shows up must fight. Everyone who shows up must behave themselves; no gloating, no victory dances, no silly comments. Those who are interested should email there height, weight and level of experience.

No Experience necessary.

All you need are grappling gloves, a mouth guard and a willingness to fight. Fighters are matched up according to weight. Everyone who shows up must fight. Everyone who shows up must behave themselves; no gloating, no victory dances, no silly comments. Those who are interested should email there height, weight and level of experience.

No Experience necessary.