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How an Oklahoma National Guard Soldier found redemption in MMA
news
August 2, 2023
How an Oklahoma National Guard Soldier found redemption in MMA
By Sgt. Reece Heck Oklahoma National Guard,

TULSA – Spc. Justin Budd, a member of the Oklahoma Army National Guard from Tulsa, Oklahoma, harnessed his fighting spirit in an unconventional way. Battling with anger issues throughout his youth, Budd found purpose in Mixed Martial Arts, enabling him to transform his life.

“It saved me, (MMA) 100 percent it saved me,” Budd said. “My family and friends would say it saved me. I’m not saying I was a bad kid, but my inability to control my anger could have put me in a very bad place if I didn’t have something like this to keep me centered.”

Having tried various sports like wrestling to manage his emotions, it wasn’t until Budd discovered MMA that he truly found an effective outlet. Budd firmly believes MMA provides an ideal avenue for individuals struggling with anger management or personal challenges.

“When you come in here, you expend a bunch of energy, you get humbled, and you release a bunch of emotions,” Budd said. “It couldn’t get healthier than that, and you’re doing it in a controlled environment with a coach making sure you don’t get hurt.”

In February 2023, Budd made his professional MMA debut at Legacy Fighting Alliance 152 in Shawnee, Oklahoma, where he secured an impressive knockout victory in the first round. With seven years of MMA training, six while serving in the National Guard, Budd established himself as one of the state’s most accomplished fighters. His exceptional amateur record of 10 wins to only two losses earned him the opportunity to turn professional.

For Budd, both MMA and the National Guard offer platforms to aid and protect others.

“I think that fighting for my country, fighting for my state, fighting for myself—it all ties into validating that I can protect myself and others,” he said. “Every time I’ve been out, and I see somebody that needs help, I want to help. I think being in the Guard helps because when they call me up, I’ve volunteered for almost every SAD (State Active Duty) mission that’s come up.”

Budd joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 2017 as a combat engineer. He is currently a member of the 244th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 245th Airfield Operations Battalion, 90th Troop Command where he will train as an Aviation Operations Specialist.

Budd actively contributed to various State Active Duty missions, including security operations during the 59th Presidential Inauguration in Washington, D.C., and assisting in the preparation and distribution of personal protective equipment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Every time there’s been a moment where Oklahoma’s needed us, I go out there, and I volunteer because that’s what I signed up for,” Budd said. “I want to help people. I like helping people.”

While continuing to serve his community through the Oklahoma National Guard, Budd relentlessly pursues personal growth within the realm of MMA. In his determination to set new heights, he’s certainly not afraid of setting lofty goals.

“Right now, my goal is to be in the UFC,” Budd said. “But the ultimate goal is obviously UFC champion.”

By dedicating himself to both military service and the pursuit of excellence in MMA, Justin Budd exemplifies strength and determination, demonstrating his commitment to positively impact the lives of others both inside and outside the cage.

Eufaula Memorial Library
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A llama and a youngster got acquainted at a petting zoo at the Eufaula Memorial Library Wednesday, June 25. Dozens of kids and adults enjoyed the llama, goats, donkey and other animals, provided by Ma...
A: Main, news
Eufaula hosting July 4 Celebration
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Mayor James Hickman and the City of Eufaula are honored to invite residents and visitors to the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration on Friday, July 4. The fireworks will begin shortly after su...
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A: Main, news
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Selby Minner’s Celebration of Life on Saturday at the Checotah Performing Arts Center was a beautiful 3-hour-long tribute to an amazing soul who loved the blues and more importantly, loved people. As ...
Lightning strike kills Eufaula woman in cemetery
A: Main, news
Lightning strike kills Eufaula woman in cemetery
By JERRY FINK MANAGING EDITOR 
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A 57-year-old Eufaula woman was killed by lightning during a routine stroll through a cemetery Friday evening. Joy Ann Rogers was walking through Greenwood cemetery shortly before 7 p.m. when a thunde...
A: Main, news
Native American Arts & Crafts show Saturday
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Eufaula Indian Community will host an Arts and Crafts show and sale Saturday, July 5 at the IEC Center, 800 Birkes Road, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to this event, a chair volleyball tournament...
Olivia Shackelford honored with 2025 Youth Prevention Award
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Olivia Shackelford honored with 2025 Youth Prevention Award
July 2, 2025
On June 5, local student Olivia Shackelford of Eufaula was recognized as the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Youth Prevention Award in Oklahoma City at the Heartland Conference. This past week Olivi...
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Family, friends and fans bid farewell to Blues legend
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Her casket rested below center stage at the Checotah Performing Arts Center, open for friends, fans, and family to view her precious body before her life’s celebration began. No one lingered long. Tha...
Another busy week in the district
commentary
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I started last Saturday June 21, bright and early at Stigler Reunion Days. I kicked things off at the Haskell County GOP Tent, answering questions and catching up with friends and supporters. Then I h...
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commentary
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What a month it’s been for me personally and in our close-knit communities. Trying to cope with the loss of loved ones has been extremely difficult and downright demanding. Yet having to come to terms...
‘Big Beautiful Bill’ overhauled in Senate, would cause even more government borrowing
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Hays Supports MOHA Executive Order
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Hays Supports MOHA Executive Order
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OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Neil Hays, R-Muskogee, today expressed strong support for Gov. Kevin Stitt’s new “Make Oklahoma Healthy Again” (MOHA) executive order, which targets artificial food additives and ...
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