Nicola Knight has prepared for an “all-out war” ahead of her upcoming contest with Anna-Louise Burns at Unity Fighting Championship.
The event is set to take place on Saturday, August 5th, at the Dolphin Centre in Darlington. Those attending can expect well-matched action from some of the best up-and-comers in the country.
Ahead of the fight, we had the chance to talk with Nicola Knight to get her thoughts. See what she had to say below.
Interview With Nicola Knight
Nicola, you’re a few weeks out from making your MMA return after some time out. How are you feeling physically and mentally after a slight break from competition?
I’m feeling really good! I think it’s done me some good just being able to focus on training without any pressure of competing, but I’m so ready to get back to it now!
All throughout your amateur career, you’ve consistently looked to challenge yourself and take tough fights in order to improve your skill set. What are some of the biggest lessons your amateur career has taught you thus far?
I’ve learnt so much! I’ve shared the cage with some killers!! I used to really get bothered by my record, but now, looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing. I’ve learnt more in the fights that I’ve had than I would have if it were different. But I think for me, the biggest lesson is just to enjoy the whole process rather than put too much pressure on myself.
Nicola Knight Talks Hunting First Victory
After what I imagine was a frustrating time when you were on the hunt for your first win. How did you manage to go about keeping mentally strong knowing things would eventually go right? And where does that mental strength come from?
Very frustrating! I have some really awesome people around me that keep me headstrong. I think I’ve always been mentally strong but lacked the confidence to go with it. That’s been my main issue, and it’s only really the last couple of years that I have overcome it – I owe that to my coach, Lewis Garside, who believed in me from day 1. He has helped me totally change my mindset, and I’ve really started to believe in myself and my ability. I know that my record doesn’t define me as a fighter.
With that said, last time out, we saw you pick up your first win against Michaela Petaroudi at Almighty Fighting Championship. Can you highlight what that meant to you to get your hand raised?
I don’t think I could put into words how much that meant to me. I needed it so much. Michaela was a very tricky fighter to deal with, so to get the win against her on a really good show like Almighty was just amazing!
Unity FC Bout
Scotland’s Anna-Louise Burns is the girl in your way at Unity FC. Looking at her resume, how do you feel about this fight and challenge that she presents to you?
I have a lot of respect for Anna. She’s solid! I’m expecting a tough, gritty fight. I think this is going to be a really good test for me, and I’m looking forward to it!
Finally, tell the Unity faithful what they can expect to see from you on August 5?
Win, lose or draw, I’m going to show a new, improved version of me, I feel strong, and I’m ready for an all-out war.
Featured image credits to DN4 Photography
