Worth the risk? Fighters explain why they compete on unsanctioned shows

Fighters warming up outside the Xplode Fight Series venue in July. - Raymond K. BavaldiFor two months, MMA Fighting has conducted dozens of interviews with fighters, managers, promoters, coaches and others connected to unsanctioned mixed martial arts shows in California, particularly Xplode Fight Series. Below is the third piece in a three-part special report.

Patrick Cummins faced all the usual problems MMA fighters have trying to break into a big show. Except way worse.

Cummins was a two-time NCAA Division I wrestler at Penn State and a former member of the U.S. national team. And everyone knew it. If it was hard enough for up-and-coming prospects to get pro fights, it was nearly impossible…