Transforming The Lives Of At-Risk Youth Through Martial Arts

He came from the tough streets of Chicago, and now he is instilling discipline in at-risk kids here in Oklahoma City.

Emmanuel Rivera was on his way to a promising career in the world of mixed martial arts.

“He would have been in the UFC if it wasn’t for the health scare,” said Carl Beldon, Program Director and coach with The Come Up.

“I had a heart scare, I would pass out randomly, and I had to stop fighting because of it,” said Rivera, founder of The Come Up. 

Unable to compete he shifted his focus, and he started what he calls The Come-Up.

“Commit, oblige myself, especially under pressure,” said Rivera.

It’s a nonprofit martial arts program for youth. Rivera and his staff are taking the curriculum for self-defense to youth in disadvantaged communities for free.

“Because it is an expensive sport, it’s worth it, but it is expensive and not everyone can afford it and that’s why we created this,” said Rivera. 

What he has created is a culture of values a lot of kids never see.

“Discipline, respect, giving the kids something tough to do because there is nothing harder than life,” said Rivera.

“I was like really scared of people that look stronger than you and stuff, so I gained confidence from it,” said Come Up student Zay Goree.

“He really taught me how to control myself, emotionally and physically,” said Patrick Brines a student in the program.

They teach in 7 different locations across the metro, making it accessible for kids who have to walk.

“Nobody makes them, they do this to become a better person on their own and these kids don’t miss,” said Beldon.

With school starting, Emmanuel is extra excited about his new opportunity.

“We just got accepted by OKCPS and approved to be in PE classes, so we’ll be starting that this year,” said Rivera.

For information about the program and ways to support visit www.comeupfoundation.com.