Kai Kara-France is ranked No.4 in the UFC's lightest division. Photo: RICHARD WAINWRIGHT/AAP
When Kiwi mixed martial arts star Kai Kara-France steps into the Octagon on Sunday to challenge for the UFC flyweight title, he'll carry the support - and appreciation - of the high-flying NZ Warriors.
Currently ranked No.4 in the promotion's lightest division (less than 56.7kg), Kara-France will take his 8-4 record against defending champion Alexandre Pantoja of Brazil on 29 June (NZT) in UFC 310 at Las Vegas.
He has long been a fan of the Auckland NRL side, but that relationship has far surpassed one of mutual respect - he's become an integral part of the programme that currently sits fourth on the competition table halfway through the season.
Kara-France, also known as 'Don't Blink', is official listed as the Warriors wrestling consultant, a role created when Andrew Webster took over as head coach in 2023 and began looking for the small gains that would make a difference to team performance.
Kai Kara-France has contributed to the Warriors' 10-4 start to the NRL season. Photo: David Neilson/Photosport
Webster sought an edge in the tackle and subsequent race to marker, and the pint-sized battler was recommended to him, when he arrived at Mt Smart.
"I had a meeting with him, trying to find the right guy to help us with our defence," Webster recalled. "I couldn't believe the spirit he had and how much he motivated me.
"After that coffee, I left feeling I was stronger and tougher, and I certainly wasn't. I wondered what he would do for our guys and I know our guys are fans of UFC, so I was excited to get him and see what he could deliver.
"I've never seen a guy transition his skillset - along with Slade Griffin, our rugby league expert - into our defence. I've been really happy with that.
"Him as a person, I love him and so excited for him to chase his dreams. We don't have to take the punches like he does, but we're in it with him and so supportive of him."
The Warriors have often trained against a City Kickboxing stable that includes former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya and rising light-heavyweight contender Carlos Ulberg, under the watchful eye of master coach Eugene Bareman.
"They're world class in their field and we get to train there all the time, which is really special," Webster said.
The benefits cut both ways.
"I was there long before we were winning or doing well in the comp," Kara-France told RNZ . "Now full circle, I am working with the team and it's cool to see New Zealand get around them.
"Something I have learnt from the Warriors is that it's a journey and it's not just about when they are winning. That's what's been cool about being a Warriors fan, I grew up on the team and, when they are not doing well, they know we are there for the ride."
"It was the same at CKB. When I started, people used to think it was just thugs, but it's so big now, it can't be denied anymore."
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