This Saturday night at Clan Wars 27 Daniel Thompson (5-3) fights for the amateur flyweight title. The 23-year-old faces Alex Budiou on the main card in what is a big fighter for the Evolve Martial Arts fighter.
We sat down with him this weekend to ask about how he got into the sport, training at Evolve, Clan Wars and a few questions to get to know him a bit better.
(*title image via Daniel fb page)
Combat Gear: How did you get into the sport and how long have you been training?
Daniel Thompson: Evolve Martial Arts opened up in Limavady and I thought I would give it a go and I have been part of the club ever since. MMA is a very addictive sport as you're continuously learning new things. I have been training roughly for about 6/7 years now but have had a little bit of a break in between.
What are things like at Evolve?
It's great. There's an ever growing team of fighters from all different aspects of the sport at the gym so you're constantly getting challenged in all areas. The place is full of top guys. My coaches Jason McCabe, John Rosborough and Gavin Kelly are always pushing everyone to better themselves everyday. I personally can't thank these guys enough for their help.
What is a typical week like for you in terms of training?
I train as much as I can while holding down a full time job. I train up to five times a week then on top of that I also have my strength and conditioning with Steven Kelly and Ricky Morrison at Nspire Fitness Limavady, who have kindly been helping me out for this fight which is much appreciated.
How would you describe your fighting style?
I wouldn't really say I have a particular style. I'm known to be well rounded and I feel comfortable everywhere really.
Who are your inspirations in martial arts?
Guys like Ramon Dekkers and Buakaw and also follow a lot of Duke Roufus' stuff.
You're facing Alex Budiou this Saturday. What do you know of him and what sort of fight are you expecting?
I don't really know much about him. I was ringside for Alex's fight against Paul Hughes not so long ago and from what I seen he likes to stand and bang. I expect a war!
What would it mean to you to win the Clan Wars title?
Bringing that title home to my club will be a goal achieved for me and will show that hard work does pay off. I've wanted that belt for a long time now and it's coming home with me!
Have you a prediction for the fight?
My hand being raised.
As an amateur fighter, what do you think of the new scans and safety measures being implemented in Irish MMA.
It is what it is. The safety precautions are being put in place for the fighters well being. A few fighters have maybe had their lives saved due to the scans now so it is working in a way but the costs will stop a lot of young amateurs from fighting, especially the teens.
Quick Fire:
Fav Submission - armbar
Fav Striking Technique - roundhouse
Fav Music - bootleg
5 Fav fighters - Urijah Faber, Joseph Benavidez, Chad Mendez, Paddy Holohan, and Cody Garbrandt.
Worst Part of Training - getting smacked by Gavin Kelly, like getting hit by a buss, haha.
Cheat Meal - sausage and bean slice
Goal in the sport - all the way to the top!
Thank you very much for yours time, Daniel. All the best this weekend.
Cheers guys. Just want to give a big shout out to my coaches Jason McCabe Gavin Kelly, John Rosborough and my sponsors Nspire Fitness Limavady, Riceway Takeaway, and Grannie Annie's. Also my family and friends for their support especially my girlfriend for putting up with me and prepping all my meals for my diet I'd be lost without the help. It's much appreciated guys couldn't do it without you all.
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- Clan Wars 27 Fight Card
- Gavin Kelly signs multi fight contract with Cage Warriors
- Andy Young vs. Dominique Wooding - Full Fight
- Cage Legacy 2 Fight Card
