Professional MMA fighter Ashley Kilvington feels his Almighty Fighting Championship 33 opponent is out his depth.
Almighty FC make the Metrodome in Barnsley their home this Saturday. The countries best amateurs and professional mixed martial artists will make the walk.
Ahead of fight night, we caught a word with Ashley Kilvington, who looks forward to performing and showcasing his skill-set.
Ashley Kilvington Feels His Opponent Is Out His Depth
Ashley, Saturday night at AFC 33, you return to the cage for the first time in a while. Tell us, how has it felt prepping to fight once again, and how happy are you to be back?
It felt great. I love the hard training and the fight camp discipline. I’d missed it while I’d been away. I had boxing fights in that period, but it’s not the same. The training in mma is far more intense and taxing on the body.
The last time we saw you was against Mark Wade in 2021. Has there been any reason for the long lay-off, and have you still been consistently training during that time?
I had an injury which put me out of everything for about 6/9 months. Then I managed to get back to training boxing, and it’s been a gradual journey back to MMA. 2 boxing fights, one kickboxing. Three fights, three wins, so I’d say the time off was well spent.
With that in mind, how much have you levelled up during that time away? You’ve more than likely had time to add new tools to your arsenal. What are the fans in for when you make the walk next weekend?
So, I was able to work primarily on my striking at that time, which is where I needed to work, so you’ll now see a far more composed version of myself in there. It’s not all about getting the takedown now.
The Opponent Change
I believe you were faced with an opponent change during this camp. Has that affected your prep in any way, or has it been tunnel vision, and you’re not fussed about the opponent?
There are three different opponents, but the training remains the same despite a few tweaks.
The man that now stands in your way is Ayoub Tounsi. What do you know about him, and how do you feel you match up against him?
I know he’s more of a striker, but I’ll be fine standing with him. In the grappling/wrestling, he’s not on my level. Simple as that.
Is ring rust in your mind at all, and do you envision that playing a factor in the fight on Saturday?
No I don’t think that’ll be a problem for me I’ve been sparring consistently in the time away and also kept as busy as I could in that period with fights.
Ayoub made his professional debut last month on Almighty FC. Have you had the chance to watch it, and if so, what do you think?
I saw his professional debut. I wasn’t impressed. And simply put, he’s out of his depth!
Finally, tell us, how do you get it done at Almighty FC 33, and why should people tune in?
I’ve been away a while, and I’m not blessed with time at 34, so I’m coming for the finish. It’s just business and on to the next. It’s all about damage limitation now, and then keep lining them up!
