Retired MMA fighter saving Detroit’s dogs
The Dog Fighter is the inspiring true story of Gordon Shell and his career in mixed martial arts. Shell suffers…
The Dog Fighter is the inspiring true story of Gordon Shell and his career in mixed martial arts. Shell suffers from a heart condition which ended his 22 year career as a fighter. On September 15th in Rochester Hills, Michigan, Gordon Shell fought his last MMA fight. It was held on his 43rd birthday. But Shell used this event to bring attention, not to himself, but to the issues of dog fighting and animal abuse in Detroit. The proceeds from this event he donated to the Michigan Humane Society.
It seemed natural for Shell to go from being a fighter himself to fighting for dogs: I started pushing harder since I’m a fighter and work with fighters. I think we have a bigger voice to go after the bad guys.”
Shell pulls no punches when speaking about dogs used for fighting: It’s a whole different genre when you talk about dog fighting. They don’t choose to fight, and they don’t have referees and they don’t have the option to stop when they are injured.
After Michael Vick’s dog fighting story broke, Shell contacted Vick and challenged him to a fight. According to Shell, Vick’s rep said Vick wanted no part of it. Gordon Shell would like to remind Michael Vick that the offer is still open. Ellen DeGeneres, how’s that for an idea for your next show?
The Dog Fighter is expected to be released at Thanksgiving. The docudrama is directed by award-winning director Douglas Schulze and Emmy award-winning filmmaker Chuck Grady. The producers are Kurt Mayry, independent producer for 25 years and co-founder of The Motion Picture Institute. Also Kathryn McDermott, producer and former Vice President of Columbia Pictures.
Once the film is released, proceeds will go towards the Michigan Humane Society.
Please help support Gordon Shell’s effort by making a donation here.
See all the dogs and cats up for adoption at the Michigan Humane Society at their websiteand on Facebook.
The Dog Fighter is also onFacebook.