GWFC 1 is fast approaching and whilst there is two
big title fights as well as a card packed with talent - One fight is drawing a
lot of attention locally. Warren Frost, who is stepping into the cage for the
first time has been matched up with Stephen Poole of nearby Coventry. Frost has
already shared with us his views on making his debut, now we can hear Poole’s
thoughts on the encounter.
Poole, who is still only 20 years old, will be competing for
the 5th time. More impressively he does this whilst also being a soldier
of the Royal regiment of fusiliers and a member of their rugby team. When we
finally managed to get some free time with him while away on a course with the
army, this is what he had to say.
Hi Stephen, glad to
finally catch up with you, It’s been a busy couple of weeks for you. How are
you feeling leading up to GWFC1?
I’m really looking forward to it, I honestly can’t wait!
You have come up against some very tough guys early on in your
career. That must be a huge advantage facing a debut opponent?
Yeah, I have fought a guy 3rd in the world at Sambo
who also represented GB in judo.
My two other defeats were also against top
fighters (Chris Kennedy and Jason Musson) who had brilliant ground game. But I’m
glad I have fought these guys because I’ve now been working on areas they had
the upper hand so I can be ready for GWFC.
(Vs James Musson @ Battle arena)
Have you approached
this fight camp any differently after coming off a defeat?
Yeah like I said, I have been focusing a lot on my ground
game. My BJJ is definitely better than before and also my takedown defence. So I
am more confident that ever.
Does being a fighter and a soldier make it difficult to commit to
training?
Sometimes it can be difficult yes, but if I miss a day in
the gym or on the matts I just go harder the next day. And more often if I am
away with work I’ll be worked pretty hard - you know! But in general I get to
train in the evenings same as everybody else.
How do you see the
fight going?
Really well. (laughs) I know it will be tough but you have
to be confident in your abilities. And to become the best you have to go through
the best.
Does it help or hinder
you not knowing much about an opponent?
I prefer to do research on my opponent so I can identify
weak and strong points in their game. I like to be as prepared as possible,
which has annoyed me in the past when opponents have been switched at the last
minute. But in saying that, this time I’ve been able to put that to back of my
mind and purely concentrate on my game. If I perform my best, that’s all that
matters in there.
Lastly, Warren has
been a hit at the box office. Will the large crowd have an impact on you?
Not at all, no. The crowd doesn’t not bother me one bit. Once
I’m inside that cage everything goes silent.
Thanks Stephen we look forward to seeing you in action, all the best with the rest of your fight camp.
GWFC 1 Bedworth civic hall, CV12 8NF. Sat, 21st February. Doors open 5pm event starts 6pm
To see the outcome live you can get your tickets from civic hall box office on 02476 376707. Through our facebook page or alternatively from the fighters direct.
VIP - SOLD OUT | STANDARD £25