Steel Meets Ink
Medieval Armored Combat
Experience the raw power and spectacle of full-contact medieval armored combat right on the convention floor. Real steel. Real armor. Real fighters. This is not choreographed -- it is full-contact sport fighting in historical armor.
What to Expect
Full-Contact Fighting
Armored fighters engage in real combat using steel swords, axes, maces, and shields. Fights are governed by international rules and supervised by experienced marshals.
Historical Armor & Weapons
All armor and weapons are based on historical designs from the 13th to 16th centuries. Fighters wear full plate armor weighing 60 to 90 pounds.
One-on-One Duels
Individual fighters face off in timed bouts. Victory is achieved through points scored by clean strikes, or by forcing an opponent to the ground.
Team Melees
Groups of fighters clash in organized team battles. Coordination, strategy, and brute force determine the winning team in these chaotic and thrilling fights.
Demonstration Schedule
All demonstrations take place at the Arena Area on the convention floor.
Friday, April 16
Introduction to Armored Combat
Meet the fighters, learn about the armor and weapons, and watch warm-up bouts.
Full-Contact Exhibition Fights
One-on-one duels and small group melees under tournament rules.
Saturday, April 17
Armor & Weapons Demonstration
An up-close look at historical armor, swords, shields, and axes. Fighters explain their gear and answer questions from the audience.
Tournament Bouts
Bracket-style tournament fights. Full-contact steel-on-steel combat with elimination rounds.
Team Melee
Two teams clash in a full-contact group battle. The last team standing wins.
Sunday, April 18
Open Q&A and Armor Try-On
Audience members can try on helmets and gauntlets, ask questions, and take photos with the fighters.
Grand Finale Championship
The final championship bout of the weekend. The top fighters from Saturday compete for the title of AATC Armored Combat Champion.
Safety & Viewing
All combat demonstrations take place within a designated arena with safety barriers. Spectators can watch from a safe distance around the perimeter. The arena area is supervised at all times by trained marshals and safety personnel. While the combat is full-contact, all fighters are experienced competitors in certified armor. This event is safe for all ages to watch.
Interested in bringing your team to compete?
Contact us at info@allamericantattooconvention.com
AATC 2027
Thank you to our sponsors for helping make this happen for Fayetteville & Ft Bragg NC!
