Mckay

AS Jamaica's combined martial arts team intensifies preparations for its title defence of the US Open Busta World Continental Team Fighting Championship in Orlando early next month, the health of ace fighter Kenneth Edwards has captain Jason McKay concerned.

Edwards, set to be Jamaica's third man on the mat in Orlando, has not trained since returning from Philadelphia last month, where the combined team beat the United States to lift the Busta Pan-Am Championship Series.

Captain McKay said Edwards is seen as an anchor and possible match-winner for the combined team, in the five-man team-fighting showdown.

Edwards' fitness, McKay said, could very well determine if Jamaica return with a gold and third straight title "or nothing at all".

Edwards was hopeful yesterday, saying he was looking to resume training this weekend.

Undergoing therapy

"I picked up the injury in Philadelphia and have been out of training for a little while. I am doing therapy. It's about 60 per cent now.

"I hope by the end of this week I can ramp up my training for next week's Seido Open at the University of Technology and the US Open Busta World Continental Team Fighting Championship which follows," he added.

McKay, however, remains concerned.

"Success will depend a lot on whether Edwards is fit and ready to ensure Jamaica win in three matches," he said.

Alrick Wanliss and Nicholas Dussard should easily give Jamaica the first two bouts. Edwards, however, is Jamaica's top fighter in the open category and if he should drop the ball, it could expose Shiah Shukura and Shawn Cummings, who have not been as successful internationally.