One local mixed-martial arts star is putting away the gloves and focusing on the world of politics.
Hampton native Adam Townsend confirmed to the Elizabethton Star Wednesday that he will be tossing his name into the race for the position of Carter County Register of Deeds in the upcoming 2018 election.
Townsend, who recently announced his retirement after a six-year stint in the world of MMA, said the decision came down to wanting to help people along with giving back to the county.
“I’ve always wanted to do something like this,” Townsend said. “I love this community. Everyone has been so supportive over the years, and I want a chance to give back.”
The decision didn’t come easy, Townsend explained, but a knack of wanting to be involved with the real estate side of the county and dealing with the public wasn’t worth passing up.
“I’ve really wanted to get into the real estate side of things within the community,” he said about choosing to run for the Register of Deeds position. “My goal is to modernize the office and being able to get out into the public and do what I can. I want to be able to fight for the working man and give back, and I think this is the perfect way to do it.”
The goal of giving back is something that comes naturally for the resident. A graduate of Hampton High School, Townsend went on to attend Carson-Newman University before choosing to return home to Northeast State Community College.
During his collegiate tenure, Townsend added he looked at different professions, from becoming a teacher to a physician. After deciding those jobs wouldn’t do, the love of helping other didn’t go away as he pursued a career in the construction field.
The Hampton native was also in the business of giving some beatdowns in the octagon. Highlighting shows across the country and across the globe, the chance to pursue a dream allowed Townsend to meet different individuals and forge relationships and friendships along the way. Since his retirement, the fighter has seen countless amounts of individuals flood his social media page with compliments and thanks for representing the community on a national stage.
“I can’t say enough about the support I’ve been given,” he said. “Having the chance to pursue a dream like MMA, there’s been so many different people I’ve been able to meet. It was a great way to talk to different people, learn their stories and try to give back where I can. I’ve been through the hard times; I know what it’s like.
“Overall, I say it was a pretty successful MMA career,” Townsend added. “I hope people know that when they see me, they know I’m going to give 100 percent in what I do. This is something I’ve thought about for awhile now. I’m almost 29 years old. It’s time for me to give back to all of those that have given so much to me.”
The political aspirations are brewing for the native. Townsend added that if he’s able to come away with a win in the election, eyes could be set for higher offices in the future.
“That’s definitely a goal,” he said. “Any chance there is to help out; I’ll definitely look at it.”
Candidates looking to run for the upcoming election cycle can begin picking up packets November 17. Candidates will then be on the ballot for the May primary.