Josh "The Punk" Thomson, Mixed Martial Arts Lightweight Champion, speaks out against dog fighting with a new public service announcement as part of the "Knock Out Dog Fighting" campaign by For Pits' Sake, Inc.

"Dog fighting is animal abuse, plain and simple," he says. "Torturing animals is not cool; nor is it a sign of being a real man. Real fighters stand up for what's right and protect those who are unable to do so."

For Pits' Sake is a nonprofit organization involved in animal rescue efforts, humane education and safety programs for children for over a decade. Founder Kris Crawford believes that one of the most effective ways to stop the cycle of violence is to teach young people about the proper treatment of animals.

"That's why we have recruited the American Kickboxing Academy, the premier Mixed Martial Arts training facility, to help," Crawford said in announcing the new campaign. "Many children look up to these fighters and view them as role models. In addition to the PSAs, we visit schools and children's groups to teach children that it is not a symbol of power, strength, or greatness to abuse or torture animals."

To view the public service announcement go to http://www.knockoutdogfighting.org.

Photo courtesy Pit Bull Rescue Central