Lisa Matthews, a name emerging in the MMA circuit, prepares to step into the cage for her debut at Unity Fighting Championship on Feb. 17 in the Dolphin Centre in Darlington.
In an exclusive interview, Matthews shares her journey into martial arts and reflects on the upcoming challenge that awaits her against Jess Catleugh.
“I took up boxing at the start of 2022 in the form of a UWCB bout, which I won in July. I started kickboxing after that. It wasn’t until I started McNaldos MMA in Jarrow in early 2023 that I started to feel a lot more technical and confident in my abilities as a fighter. I started to get the bug to want to get back in the ring/cage. I started grappling at McNaldos, too. Something I’ve dipped in and out of over the years, but I found I was really enjoying it, and things were starting to stick. I’ve actually started enjoying it more than kickboxing to a degree.”
Lisa Matthews Talks Unity Fighting Championship
Facing off against Jess Catleugh, who boasts two previous fights, but is yet to taste victory, Matthews approaches the challenge with a blend of respect and determination. Despite acknowledging Catleugh’s experience, Matthews sees it as part of the thrill.
“I’ve managed to watch Jess’s fight from the BFC at the back end of last year. She looks strong and absolutely fearless,” Matthews remarks. “Which, for me, is all part of the challenge. I want the fight to test my skills and give me a chance to showcase what I’ve learned with my coach.”
Looking towards the future, Matthews harbors high expectations for herself. Regardless of the outcome, she aims to awaken on Sunday morning satisfied with her performance and the effort she has invested.
“With ten days to go until we step into the cage, I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve loved every step of fight camp, even the bruises. I like to push myself to the limit, and I really hope I’ve done enough to secure the win and make my coach proud of me. I’m not as young as some of the fighters out there, so for me, at this stage, it’s about training and becoming the best I can possibly be with the time I’ve got.”
As the countdown to Unity FC continues, all eyes are on Lisa Matthews, a fighter poised to make her mark and announce herself on the scene.
