But tonight, Edmond Tarverdyan the trainer and coach will take a back seat, as Edmond "The Diamond" Tarverdyan returns to combat for the first time in four years and dips his educated feet into the waters of mixed martial arts for the very first time.
"He's a great coach, a great trainer, but to be honest, he's pretty good at everything he does," George Bastmajyan says.
Bastmajyan is the man behind just about every going-on involved in tonight's "Chaos at the Casino" card at the Hollywood Park Casino, which Tarverdyan will headline in his 155-pound matchup against Phil Nunez. Bastmajyan, a cut man, corner man and former muay Thai kick boxer, is also one of Tarverdyan's closest friends, as the two are seemingly shoulder to shoulder in every venture involving the Glendale Fighting Club gym and their Lights Out Promotions.
There were myriad factors that led to Tarverdyan deciding to return to competition and debut in MMA.
Not the least of which was quite plain and simple for a man such as Tarverdyan, who's a fighter in spirit and has immersed himself in martial arts for the majority of his life.
"I really miss it," Tarverdyan admits.
In addition, Tarverdyan admits to being inspired by the likes of Rousey, who's become a sensation in the MMA community and beyond following her ascent to the top of the women's fighting world. Having caught the eye of fans, media and promoters alike, Rousey has quickly become a star thanks to her beauty, intelligence and flat out dominance in the cage. But for Tarverdyan, it's been her dedication and work ethic that has propelled him.
"She just works so hard. That girl was in [the gym] every day before me," Tarverdyan says. "Manny was the same way."
