Brad Schaive wants to make a few things clear about full contact armored fighting. It's a sport and it's dangerous.
Schaive would know. He's a competitor. He's traveled overseas to go up against some of the best in the world. But now, the best are coming here.
Battle of the Nations International Tournament of Chivalry will bring participants from the U.S. and five other countries to Springfield. The event at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Livestock Center is from 12-3 Saturday.
"The best way to sum it up is armored MMA," Schaive said. "You take somebody my size. Give them a salty disposition. Put them in full plate armor. Hand them a 7 pound 2 handed ax and say 'Alright guys, let's see what you've got."
Schaive doesn't sugar coat the danger of the medieval tournament. He's been hurt. He's seen others lose fingers and face other injuries. So what draws him and others to it? The historical ties.
"Everything we wear, everything we use must be documented," he said. All gear must be vetted.
"The weapons, the armor, it's all made just like it was back then." said Schaive.
