Owens branches out to MMA, even though he’s CFL’s MVP

He’s never feared the unconventional path — whether it be the long way to the end zone on punt returns at the University of Hawaii, or carving a trail to pro football stardom in Canada rather than taking another shot at the NFL.

Chad Owens has always done things his own way, but with a purpose. Remember, this is the young man who wore a suit to his meetings at the combine.

When we heard he’s trying MMA on for size, it’s no real surprise. Exciting. Interesting. But no surprise.

Lots of athletes use martial arts training to stay in shape. But as Owens himself notes, there’s a big difference to the next step, a real fight. And that’s what Mighty Mouse will be in Saturday at the Blaisdell, against Junya Tevaga, who is also making his debut.

"I’ve always been a big fan of the sport. Originally it was for the conditioning portion," Owens said. "But stepping into the cage is one of the things I’ve always wondered about. I saw it as a challenge."

Owens is the reigning most outstanding player of the Canadian Football League. The Toronto Argonauts aren’t too thrilled with their star receiver and kick returner’s choice of offseason training as they prepare to defend the Grey Cup when camp opens June 1.

"They’re definitely aware of it," Owens said. "And they’re definitely not cool with it. But there’s nothing in my contract that says I can’t do it."

There’s also nothing in it that prevents the Argos from releasing Owens if he suffers a non-football-related injury. His six-figure salary is not guaranteed.

"Nothing’s guaranteed. Tomorrow’s not guaranteed," Owens said. "I’ve been down and out and on the bottom. I’m not going to live my life on eggshells. You know my story."

For those who don’t: Owens was born two months premature, weighing 3 pounds. A three-sport standout at Roosevelt but short and not particularly straight-line fast, he had to walk on at UH. After an electrifying college career, drafted into the NFL. Some untimely drops shortened his stay, but eventually led to stardom up north — where he chose to stay, signing a three-year contract in 2011.

This is a guy who has had to scratch and claw for every opportunity. If he wants to reinvent himself now, who are we to judge?

It may seem an unwise move to risk a career-ending injury while he’s at the top of his game. We’ve seen pro football players fail in combat sports, from Too Tall Jones to Johnnie Morton.

But Owens has always been smart as well as tough, and he’s considered all that. He’s in great shape and doesn’t show signs of slowing yet, but turns 31 this week and knows he can’t play football forever. Expanding his profile could lead to other opportunities, not just in sports — he’s interested in acting.

Where others see a foolish gamble, Chad Owens sees a calculated risk.

"There are a lot of avenues to the future. This is part of setting a foundation, planting some seeds. I want to show I’m more than just a football player, a multi-talented athlete. Football is what I love, but I want to try this."

Reach Dave Reardon at dreardon@staradvertiser.com or 529-4783.