In a state that consistently faces the highest suicide rates in the nation, one local organization is using the grit of combat sports to offer a different path. On May 30, Solid as a Rock FC returns to the Carlson Center Arena, led by a promoter who views the cage as a tool for community survival. Promoter Melinda Rae is a rarity in the industry: a woman and mother of two running a premier combat sports promotion. In a male-dominated field, Rae’s approach is rooted in community health rather than just the bottom line. Having seen the devastating impact of isolation and mental health struggles in the Interior, she has built Solid as a Rock FC into a vital outlet for local residents to find discipline, connection, and a sense of purpose. "The impact of this event is deeper than just cage fights; it’s deeper here in this very unique community," says Rae. "I’ve been blessed to help people through their darkest times by giving them an outlet to train for, to compete in, and to attend. This is about providing a lifeline. I could go on forever about it, but the goal is to give our people a reason to keep fighting, both inside and outside the cage." The fight card itself reflects this deep-rooted local history. The main event features a massive career milestone as Alaskan MMA veteran Travis Hollis makes his final walk to the cage for his retirement fight. Facing him is Josh Richmond, a hungry pro flying in from Spokane, Washington, looking to spoil the veteran’s homecoming. The co-main event carries the torch for the next generation of Fairbanks athletes. Gavin Plunk, a Fairbanks native, will defend his 155lb Solid as a Rock Boxing Title against fellow Alaskan Cardell Nunnery. The Plunk name is synonymous with Fairbanks combat sports; Gavin is the son of Torrey Plunk, a former fighter, body-builder and local gym owner who has been a fixture in the community for decades. By combining championship-level athletics with a grassroots focus on mental health advocacy, Solid as a Rock FC 30 aims to prove that the most significant battles aren't always fought for a belt, but for the community itself. Event Details Event: Solid as a Rock FC 30: Summer Showdown Date: May 30, 2026 Time: 7pm AKDT Venue: Carlson Center Arena, Fairbanks, AK Get Tickets Watch Solid as a Rock 30 on MILLIONS About MILLIONS MILLIONS (millions.co) is a sports media and commerce platform built for live pay-per-view events. The platform gives promoters a direct channel to fans worldwide, streaming live combat sports programming with built-in ticketing, merchandise, and athlete commerce tools. Media Contact: media@millions.co

Solid as a Rock FC

Combat Sports as a Lifeline: Female-Led Promotion...