John D. Harris doesn’t shy away from a fight. In fact, these days, John, also known as “Big Red” or “Double Trouble,” is in the gym nearly every day training for the fight of his life, one that will launch him into the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) spotlight.
He knows it’s a challenge, but John is no stranger to tough challenges. When John was just eight years old, he came to Kurn Hattin Homes and made it his home until eighth grade graduation. It was during this time that he discovered his love for competition and martial arts. Not only did his experience in martial arts provide a healthy outlet for his feelings, it taught him discipline, focus, and respect.
He incorporates those values as an up-and-coming fighter in MMA, an intense and highly demanding combat sport that combines elements of boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, judo, and karate. It’s not for the faint of heart—fighters must be willing to put their bodies on the line, enduring punishing rounds in a sport that demands both mental and physical toughness.
John certainly is tough. It’s safe to say that his journey into MMA actually began during the time he was living at Kurn Hattin. “Kurn Hattin gave me the chance to explore martial arts,” John recalls. “They supported me, driving me to my lessons, helping me to find a constructive outlet for my energy, and encouraging me along the way. I was a kid with a lot of energy, and Kurn Hattin helped me find a way to channel it in a positive way.”
After graduating from Kurn Hattin in 2012, John attended Bellows Falls Union High School, where he further developed his athletic abilities. He competed on the school’s wrestling team and even boxed in the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament in Springfield, Vermont. Wrestling and boxing gave him other productive outlets for his energy and helped take him another step closer to the world of MMA.
Now weighing in at 235 pounds, John competes as a heavyweight fighter. His first MMA fight was against Jordan Morgan, a former NFL player. While he was not victorious in that match, John’s performance was impressive. “I didn’t win, but I put on a good show,” he says. “As I was driving home, I was convinced this is where I belong.”
For John, MMA is more than just a sport— it’s a way to push himself to the limits. “It’s a sport where athletes take a great deal of risk and could get seriously injured, but those risks add to the desire to perform well. When I climb into the cage, I’m an athlete, a performer, and entertainer.”
John’s pursuit is supported wholeheartedly by his partner, Caroline Donovan- Atwood. “She’s incredibly supportive, and I couldn’t do it without her,” he says.
Together, they recently bought their first home in Hinsdale, New Hampshire, where they’re raising John’s daughter, Luna. Balancing Caroline’s work schedule at the Brattleboro Food Co-op, responsibilities as a father, and an intense training regimen, John is staying focused on conditioning himself for the life of an MMA fighter.
Currently fighting as an amateur to hone his skills, John hopes to move up to the semi-pro level soon, which will allow him to start competing in paid matches. His ultimate goal is to go professional and fight in the Flex Fight Series, one of the largest combat platforms. Reflecting on his journey, John says, “I was a kid from nowhere with nothing, but with the support and encouragement I received at Kurn Hattin, I believe that I can go anywhere and become something.”
Adversity reveals character. John has faced adversity and has found his true character, which is strong, resilient, and determined.
“When I was younger, I thought success was all about money,” John says. “Now, I believe true success is about happiness, feeling supported, and having options in life. If you have those things, then you’ve succeeded.”
Watch for John’s upcoming fights as he rises in the world of MMA.