Falaniko Vitale's versatility has been a key to his success in mixed martial arts.

In addition to boxing, jiu-jitsu and wrestling, Vitale can now add promoting to his repertoire.

Vitale served as an event promoter for the first time in his career on Friday night during the "Local Pride" MMA card at the Dole Cannery Ballroom.

"It was a lot harder than I thought," said Vitale, a Waipahu High graduate who now lives in 'Ewa. "I don't know if I'll be doing this again — the fighting is easier than the promoting."

NVP — Niko Vitale Promotions — was created so Vitale could raise money for the Central Pacific Youth/West O'ahu Project. The goal of the project is to build a facility in West O'ahu to give youths in the area a safe place to gather for after-school and weekend activities.

Vitale said he wanted to raise $5,000 through ticket sales, concession profits, and a silent auction on Friday night.

"If we don't make ($5,000), I'll try to get sponsors to make up for it," Vitale said. "I want to make it one way or another."

Around 800 fans were in attendance for Friday's event. The main bouts featured up-and-coming professional competitors.

"That's how I wanted it," Vitale said. "I didn't want to do a big show. I want to try and show the young guys what it's all about. I want to send a message that this sport is not just about fighting. It's about respecting your opponent, respecting everybody involved, and helping the sport grow the right way."

But in his effort to raise money, Vitale lost a lot of his own. He said he spent "probably $9,000 to $10,000" of his own money to promote Friday's event.

"I'm going to lose money on this," said Vitale, 33. "But at least I tried, and I really want the project to work."

Vitale said he also took a break from training to play the role of promoter.

"I didn't train for three weeks," he said. "I'm out of shape now."

He will have to get back in shape in a hurry.

Vitale, who has a professional record of 26-8, is tentatively scheduled to face Jason "Mayhem" Miller at the Blaisdell Center Arena in July. Miller beat Vitale by choke submission in 2005.

"A rematch has been in the works for a while," Vitale said.

Miller and Vitale are both former champions in the Icon Sport organization. Vitale is currently the middleweight (185 pounds) champion in the X-1 organization.

In the main event of Friday's card, Lolohea Mahe of Maui defeated Villi Fonokalfi of Waimanalo due to doctor stoppage. A cut above Fonokalfi's eye prompted the ringside doctor to halt the bout after the first round.

"There were great fights, the fans came out ... I thought it was a good show," Vitale said.