1. What inspired you to pursue a career in mixed martial arts and join Fight Academy Ireland?
Didn’t have much direction towards the end of my teenage years & was inspired by watching the rise of Conor McGregor. After boxing sparring some MMA fighters, I decided to give it a go and never looked back.
2. How has training at Fight Academy Ireland helped shape you as a fighter and contributed to your growth in the sport?
Training at Fight Academy Ireland has helped shape me as an athlete & a person. It has made me understand true hard work, respect & discipline. They have guided me in every aspect of life from the moment I walked in the doors.
3. Who are your role models or sources of inspiration in the world of MMA?
On a global scale McGregor & Jon Jones would have been inspirations for me at the start. But I don’t think I’ve took more inspiration from anyone in MMA than Joe McColgan. I always had great conversations with Joe in my early days making the transition to MMA and he helped a lot with my confidence as he always showed belief in me while he himself was in the come up as a pro. He never was one to shit talk so when he told me I was good I listened.
4. What is the most challenging aspect of being a professional fighter, and how do you overcome those challenges?
The most challenging aspect for me is trying to find balance. I struggle to balance work life / home life and sometimes I can’t switch off. This can be a double-edged sword because your constantly thinking of ways to be a better fighter but in doing so you can also neglect other areas of your life. I don’t think anyone can get to where I want to be in this sport without being all in and that’s what I am at the moment.
5. How do you balance your training schedule with other aspects of your life, such as work or family?
I don’t. I have a terrible balance unfortunately & it is something I’m working on.
6. Are there any rituals or superstitions you follow before a fight?
Nope. I just like to listen to some good tunes & visualise.
7. How do you stay motivated and driven during tough times or setbacks in your career?
I feel tough times in my life have made me very resilient. I have a strong mentality when things aren’t going my way and believe I can turn negative energy into drive. As the old saying goes – Struggle Breeds Success.
