As we kick off the new year with fresh opportunities, the world of mixed martial arts braces for an showdown on Unity Fighting Championship’s stage.
Legge, a rising talent in the MMA circuit, gears up for a title fight on February 19th, promising a spectacle of skill. In our conversation with Arran Legge, we delve into the intricacies of his preparation, his recent triumphs, and the relentless drive that fuels his journey in the cage.
He will lock horns with Luke Penberthy on the night and anticipates a high-light reel finish. The Dolphin Centre in Darlington is the location, and the date, Feb. 19.
Arran Legge Envisions Highlight Reel Knockout
Arran, it’s a new year and a new month, and your first assignment is a title fight on Unity FC. I know this fight came around late; talk to me about how it came around and how much time you’ve had to prepare.
I got three weeks to the day notice about this fight; most of my fights are short notice, so it’s just another scrap to me, to be honest. I’m training all year round, so it’s not an issue.
In 2023, you finished the year by winning a four-man tournament. Walk me through that experience and how you evaluate competing more than once a night as you did.
Two fights in one fights in one night was a different experience for me. I had a lot of adrenaline all over the place at times, but I got the job done and was happy to get the win over two high-level opponents in the amateur scene.
Your development over the last few years since debuting has been clear to see. You’re not just winning fights; you’re finishing your opponents convincingly. Where does that killer instinct come from?
I like to get the win as much as possible and reduce unneeded injuries if I can by getting the job done fast.
2023 As A Whole
You had an active 2023 fighting five times. How would you sum up your year?
2023, for me, was a successful year. I think five fights is a good balance between getting ready for the next one and time to recover in between and adding things to my game; fights are where you learn the most, so having 5 I’m happy with.
You’ll face an experienced Luke Penberthy for the bantamweight title. Firstly, there’s so much tape out there on him. What do you see when you dive into his game?
Aye, he looks alright on the ground off his back. There’s nothing that stands out on the feet, but it should be a good scrap, I reckon.
How much-added pressure or motivation comes from a title being on the line? If any, and how do you go about channelling that positive/negative energy?
Nothing changed for me with a title being on the line. I like to keep the same mindset just like every other fight because, so far, it’s working for me. There are a few extra sprints, though.
Unity Bantamweight Strap Going to Scotland
Why and how is Arran Legge leaving with the Unity FC bantamweight strap on Feb. 17?
Head kick ko.
Finally, another good and active year sets you up nicely for 2025. Could we potentially see you turn to the pro-ranks, or is that not even a thought at the moment?
I’m not planning to be pro at this time, but for sure, in the future, I just started my MMA career, but I’m not going to rush it. I want to make sure I do it properly and gain everything there is to gain as an amateur before I go pro.