MP Will Stone to Compete in Charity Jiu-Jitsu Match

A Member of Parliament, who previously operated a Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym prior to his tenure in Westminster, is scheduled to participate in an international competition for a charitable cause. Will Stone, the MP for Swindon North, has engaged in the martial art for 17 years and also holds a black belt in judo. He is set to face a professional Mixed Martial Artist (MMA) fighter next month, aiming to generate funds for a Swindon-based charity. Mr. Stone commented, stating: “It’s a very different world to be in. It’s exciting to be part of it.” Mr. Stone, a Labour MP, secured the Swindon North constituency from the Conservatives during the general election held in July. Before entering politics, he departed from the British Army as a rifleman and subsequently established himself as the proprietor of a jiu-jitsu gym in Swindon. The 43-year-old indicated that his life underwent significant changes after his selection as Labour’s candidate the previous year. Mr. Stone remarked: “I love being a politician, it truly is an honour. But I also like being here. It brings you back to your roots and it’s a really nice thing,”. He further stated: “I’ve competed across the world. Not done as well as I would have liked.” “I’ve stepped on the mat with hundreds of people watching me. I’m not nervous to go into a debate. “If I’m willing to fight and grapple someone there is significantly higher consequences there compared to having a debate. I think with the nerves it helps a lot.”” The Member of Parliament is scheduled to compete against Matt Inman, a professional MMA fighter who also holds a jiu-jitsu black belt. Mr. Stone’s match is slated to occur at the Polaris 30 event in London on 2 November, with the aim of raising funds for The Kelly Foundation, a charity based in Swindon. For updates, follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available for review.