Yes, I am still training alone and, no, I’m not really worried about joining a camp or team although I went and trained for a week in Las Vegas a few weeks ago. I worked on striking and how to block a punch … without using my face. I sparred with Frank Mir. That was fun.
I’ve reached this gate-keeper status where they put guys up against me that, if they can get by me, then they can go on. They are legit then.Showtime at 11pm ET tonight Esther Lin TheGarv.com
(Referring to not making weight in the past) – "I know what I’m capable of and I’ve changed my diet. I know what I need to do. I got lazy; the training was there but I just wasn’t disciplined or focused and I wasn’t mentally there. I am now.
I get a lot of exposure fighting on television in Poland, but nothing like this. I’m really looking forward to making new fans. I’ve been fighting at middleweight so he may be physically stronger, but I don’t think it is an issue. I’m confident.
I want to fight EliteXC champion Jake Shields, but whoever is in the way, I’ll take them first.
I’m very excited to get this opportunity and definitely looking to set the pace early. I want to finish this fight; there’s no reason to go through any feeling out process.
I know almost nothing my opponent except that he is more a wrestler than a striker, so I will try to avoid the take down. I’m ready to fight on the ground if that’s where it goes, but will try and keep it standing. I have fought a southpaw only once before.
It’s hard to say what the victory over Kala Kolohe Hose did for my confidence, but I will find out Friday if it was a fluke or a legitimate step up. But, for sure, this is an exciting opportunity for me.
I’ve only been doing MMA 19 months but I wrestled in high school and am a natural fighter. This is my job. I train twice a day, that’s all I do.
My nickname is "Tractor" – I like to run over my opponents. The plan is to come out non-stop and knock him out or get him to submit. I would like best to win by stoppage but he is a tough dude, who I respect. But I came here to win and if I am mentally right, I will. I’m ready for anything.