X-Treme Kombat 15 goes down tonight in Barrow, and we have an exclusive interview with Leigh O’Donnell as he makes his professional K1 debut. In what is sure to be a fan favourite bout, he takes on Adam Hall, 1-0 in kickboxing. After all, who doesn’t love back and forth striking?
Leigh O’Donnell has fought under multiple disciplines, with his most recent ventures being inside a boxing ring. He Knocked out Kyle McNicholas in the squared circle less than a year ago at a Budo/X-Treme Kombat crossover event, showing that his now battle-tested boxing skills are more dangerous and educated a weapon than his record might show.
We caught up with the Cumbria Combat Sports fighter ahead of his big fight.
Leigh O’Donnell Interview
Hi Leigh, Thanks for the time. How are you feeling a couple of days away from the fight?
Hi, I’m feeling pretty good. I’ve been pushed really hard this camp, working on every aspect we could cover to make sure I am 100% ready going into this fight.
You have competed across multiple disciplines, do you feel Kickboxing is the strongest chance of making it to the very top?
It has been over four years since my last competition in kickboxing. I took time out and ended up boxing for three of those years.
I would say my stand-up game has come in leaps and bounds, and you have to be confident in this game. You have to believe you can reach the top, or what’s the point?
Your most recent bout was a boxing one, with a first-round K.O victory. Will you be continuing with boxing as well as K1?
I think for now, after making my pro debut in K1, I will stick to kickboxing. It’s always been my first passion, and the fact I ain’t getting any younger.
Leigh O’Donnell Talks Pro Debut
This will be your Pro debut, what do you think people will be most impressed with about your skillset?
I think what people are most impressed with, in my fights in general is, that I always put the effort in.
I make it as exciting to watch as possible and it’s always a big crowd at the local shows.
So, for the people that show support, I owe it to them to put on a show and give them their money’s worth.
As well as being a fighter, you are also a barber from what I gather, hence the nickname. Who has the best and worst haircuts in Combat Sports?
Tough one that, there are not too many fighters with a bad haircut I have seen recently.
How do you see the fight playing out, all going well?
I would like to get the rounds in and have fun. Just getting back in there and enjoying the fight.
May the best man win and hopefully I have my hand raised at the end.
Thanks for the time Leigh, anything you want to add?
Thank you for taking the time to interview me. it’s a pleasure.
Shout out to everyone at Cumbria Combat Sports, Unit Transformation, Hindpool Tigers, The Darby Inn, Graphic Signs, Tuff Muay Thai, Martin Williams Sports Therapist, Diamond Bullz, Joas Marshall Gas Services
The Pleasure is all ours Leigh.
The Big Three
Favourite Fighter – Liam Harrison and Mike Zambidis
Favourite Fight – Chahid vs Zambidis
G.O.A.T – Khamzat Chimaev
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Featured image credits to Darren Athersmith
