Haskell, who has followed MMA for years as a fan, is still a novice in a complex and savage sport. England flanker James Haskell has been engaging in gruelling Ultimate Fighting Championship-style training to hone his rugby skills. James Haskell is becoming a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter. The former England international called time on a … Haskell has previously used the grappling art jiu jitsu as part of his rugby training, saying it helped in positioning himself to steal the ball as … I’m A Celebrity star James Haskell’s muscles are from extreme training regimes and diet ahead of MMA debut – The Sun Jump directly to the content The Sun, A News UK Company Close Having swapped rugby for MMA, ex-England star James Haskell is determined to prove he is "deadly serious" about becoming a successful fighter. “Fans can expect an explosive first appearance from Haskell, whose opponent will be announced in the coming weeks. Haskell has previously trained with British MMA fighter Michael 'Venom' Page and worked as a television pundit covering MMA. “Having used MMA to aid his rugby training, Haskell has been preparing for his professional debut at London Shootfighters, where he has trained for many years, alongside the likes of British MMA star Michael “Venom” Page. James Haskell: 'When you’re being choked in the MMA cage it’s horrific' Donald McRae . The former England international James Haskell was unveiled by Bellator MMA today after announcing that he will be dipping into the world of MMA under their promotional banner. James Haskell will make his eagerly-awaited MMA debut in London when mixed martial arts promotion Bellator returns to the capital in May. James Haskell official Sherdog mixed martial arts stats, photos, videos, breaking news, and more for the Heavyweight fighter from England. Former England rugby player James Haskell hits hard, likes his jiu-jitsu, and will be ready to fight MMA 'sooner rather than later,' according to his Bellator boss Alan Dawson 2019-10-31T16:31:51Z England flanker James Haskell has been engaging in gruelling Ultimate Fighting Championship-style training to hone his rugby skills. Former England rugby union international James Haskell will make his professional mixed martial arts debut on May 16.