Almighty Fighting Championship returns to Houghton le Spring this Saturday with another thrilling lineup of fights for Almighty FC 26. The Rainton Arena plays host to a handful of amateur and professional action.
Headlining the event is Almighty FC flyweight champion Shajidul Haque who makes the first defence of his title. The Ace MMA fighter will square off against Elliot Hoye, who seeks activity after picking up his first victory after suffering a two-year break from competition.
Before the event takes place, here at Combat Sports UK, we intend to give readers a closer insight into the fighters competing on the card, bringing our latest series of ‘Get to Know’.
Today we spoke with amateur bantamweight Ethan Wilson, who fights out of MTK Newcastle, and notes a record of (2-0) thus far in his career.
Get To Know Ethan Wilson
How did Ethan Wilson find MMA? What is your earliest memory of the sport, and why is it a path you decided to pursue?
My friend in college did MMA, and I was fascinated by it. After going to one of his fights, it lit a spark of excitement for me.
Other than fighting, do you have any other hobbies you like to participate in, or have you always been some sort of combat sport?
I have no other hobbies other than MMA. Earlier in my life, I did Judo for four years, which has given me a good base for MMA.
At this level, many fighters are studying, working full time, and training. How do you find the balance to ensure you get the quality training required? Do you find it difficult?
I work full time juggling a few jobs alongside each other all are physical, which I feel helps me because I just think of it as extra training.
Every athlete has aspirations and goals they set out for themselves. Small goals or big goals, but what are your goals within the sport? This can be short-term or long-term?
My goals are just to keep going, keep training and see how far I can take myself. I could see myself going into coaching later in life.
What do you like to do to relax and wind down when your mind is not focussed on training?
I love going out with my mates when I’m not in camp. I think you need to have a balance between training and having a good time.
How do you usually approach preparing for a fight? Are you somebody who likes to watch his opponent’s previous fights and gameplan from there, or do you just focus on your own strengths and what you need to do on the night?
I try not to focus on my opponent too much. I will watch some tape if there is any, but I just try to make sure I come in the best condition of my ability.
In your short journey thus far, who has been your biggest motivator?
I have a good group of people around me; friends, family and training partners are all a huge motivation.
Who is your favourite fighter, and what’s your greatest fight of all time?
My favourite fighter is Anderson Silva. Because of how far ahead he seemed at his time. A favourite fight can’t be whittled down to one.
Five years from now. Where does Ethan Wilson want to be in terms of the sport?
I would like to be an established professional with a well-respected record looking to climb the ranks.
What is your favourite discipline of MMA, and why?
My favourite discipline is BJJ, as I feel it’s where my strength is due to my Judo background.
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Featured image credits to Olympus FC
