Shie Tabor is set to make his amateur mixed martial arts debut this Saturday in Barnsley at Almighty Fighting Championship 33.
The Barnsley Metrodome will host the fun-filled fight card, a venue that’s provided some iconic moments in the Almighty catalogue. If you’re unable to make the night of action, you can purchase the pay-per-view here.
Prior to making the walk for the first time in his career, we caught up with Shie Tabor.
Shie Tabor Talks Upcoming AFC 33 Bout
Shie, a few weeks out until your first competitive walk to the cage, how do you feel as we close in fight week? Are you dealing with the emotions well?
The emotions are fine. I just dialed in now. I can’t wait to get into the cage and put a performance on.
Your amateur debut is a massive moment in one’s MMA journey. Can we expect a good crowd coming to watch you in Barnsley?
I wouldn’t say a big crowd, but the people who matter will be there to support me as they always have and will be.
Why MMA? Why did Shie Tabor decide to walk through the doors of a gym and start competing in MMA? What enticed you to do so?
Well, it’s a combination of things, really, from just wanting to try and learn how to defend myself to younger me watching Michael Bisping vs GSP and falling in love with the pure controlled violence of mma and everything that comes with it.
Although you’ve not competed yet, what valuable lessons have training and preparing for a fight taught you?
I’ve learned that everything has a process you have to follow, and if you follow that process and keep on the path, it gives you confidence not following it wouldn’t give you. Fail to prepare or prepare to fail, as they say.
Making MMA Debut
For those who’ve yet to see what you’re about. Tell us, what are you about? What can we expect from your amateur MMA debut?
Well, I would say whatever happens in there, I won’t quit, and you will see the best performance I can put on. This is an MMA fight, not a grappling match or a striking fight, so I’m prepared wherever the fight goes on November 25th.
Finally, give us your final thoughts and any last words you may have for your opponent.
There’s not much for me to say about my opponent other than I hope he shows up ready to fight on weight. Other than that, I’m not really thinking about him. I’m going to go out there and fight how I fight and get my hand raised in Barnsley.
