Conquering all the combat sports disciplines is the true goal for a lot of mixed martial artists. This is the case for Battle Arena contender Tyreece Richards.
Having already secured an MMA title in South Africa, as well as a title in boxing, Richards is looking an extending his resume by picking up another title at Battle Arena Northampton. Richards has one of the most well-rounded games in the regional scene and is sure to cause major problems for anyone standing across from him.
We were able to speak to Tyreece Richards pre-fight to get his thoughts and feelings heading into this latest title opportunity.
Tyreece Richards Interview
Thanks for taking the time to talk to me today, Tyreece. How did you deal with the late notice pullout of your opponent?
I was fighting Reise but his team pulled him from the fight saying he couldn’t make weight even though we were both walking around at the same weight. Luckily they found a replacement. I’ve had 9 guys pull out in less than a year.
You have a very aggressive fighting style, what effect do you think this has on your opponents?
My style is very aggressive which makes people make mistakes. Not a lot of people can handle that type of pressure. That, mixed with my cardio and resiliency, makes people melt in the later rounds.
You’re quite clearly a finishing machine, do you expect to add another finish to your resume this weekend?
100%, I’m looking for another finish. I think I’m one of the most dangerous fighters on the circuit right now which is why it’s hard getting match-ups a lot of the time.
Richards On His Stand-Up
Do you think people fear your striking?
I know most of these guys won’t want to stand with me. I can confidently say that once they see the levels they’ll try and get the fight to the ground as soon as possible. Most of my wins have come by submission in MMA too so I’m not scared to grapple at all.
Has competing in boxing taken any of the focus away from MMA?
Not at all I’ve always been training MMA as well as boxing. I only took the boxing fights because people were pulling out of the MMA ones and wanted to stay as active as possible.
Fight Night and Beyond
How confident are you that the belt is coming home with you?
I’m very confident I’m taking this belt home, I want to solidify my name not only win but to show everyone that I’m next up.
Should you be victorious, do you plan on defending the belt this year or delving back into boxing?
I’d definitely want to defend the belt and win more in different promotions too, I want to hold belts in Boxing, MMA and K1.
Battle Arena Northampton goes down Saturday 20th May at Northampton County Cricket Ground.
Featured image credits to Battle Arena