As Cage Warriors prepares to return to Scotland with Cage Warriors 171 at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow, the promotion’s former welterweight champion Ross Houston finds himself in a different role this time around.
Stepping into the corner to guide his student, heavyweight MMA fighter Jamie MacDonald, Houston reflects on his own journey and the exciting prospects ahead for MacDonald.
“Jamie’s preparation has been really good considering the amount of hurdles he’s had to overcome in camp,” Houston shared. “Signing a 5-fight deal with Cage Warriors has come at a great time for him as now we are guaranteed activity and have a clear-cut path to the world title which I believe is well within Jamie’s reach.”
Ross Houston on Cage Warriors 171
Having once ruled the roost at Cage Warriors, Houston’s return to the familiar environment brings a sense of excitement:
“I had a great time and have lots of good memories with Cage Warriors,” he reminisced. “I’m excited for Saturday; it’s going to be yet another good memory added. I’m just in a different position for myself this time!”
As Houston transitions from fighter to coach, he imparts valuable advice to MacDonald ahead of his debut:
“Jamie is in a great place mentally just now coming in at 3-0 so the self-belief and confidence is building, which is key to being a world champion,” Houston remarked. “For me, composure is key and to never put an opponent on a pedestal. These are some of the things I pass on to Jamie.”
Reflecting on Cage Warriors’ return to Scotland, Houston recognizes the growth of MMA in the country:
Scottish MMA In a Good Place
“It’s great to see Cage Warriors finally come to Scotland,” he acknowledged. “The level of MMA in Scotland is better than ever just now. There is some great talent currently on the pro scene, and I know for sure there is some top amateurs to look out for who will be breaking into the professional scene in the coming years.”
Adding: “Im looking forward to seeing Clancy Jr in my old division Saturday night. Heard some great things about his skills & athletic ability CW have got a good mixture of Scottish pros ,up and comers & central belt ticket sellers signed to the company now where as before it was only really myself , Aidan , McBain & Malone signed up so it would have been hard to fill out a big arena as we’re all from the northern areas of Scotland.”
Despite the excitement surrounding MacDonald’s debut, Houston remains focused on the task at hand:
“Ariano is an experienced amateur with some top-level Judo experience under his belt too,” Houston noted. “Unfortunately, Jamie MacDonald is not the guy you want to introduce you to the professional ranks at the Braehead Arena. Nell has skills, but I feel Jamie is going to be far too powerful for the Frenchman.”
As Cage Warriors 171 draws near, Ross Houston prepares to lead his student into battle, embracing his new role while cherishing the memories of his own journey within the promotion.
