Cage Warriors will make a triumphant return to California with an action-packed card featuring many top Cage Warriors names, such as Damon Wilson.
Damon Wilson is an undefeated mixed martial artist (4-0) who will face James Settle in the featherweight division on September 23rd. “The Nomad” has competed in 3 of his four professional bouts in Cage Warriors and has finished every fight he has had in the company. He will be looking to extend his undefeated record this Friday.
The Career of Damon Wilson
Wilson began his professional career in February 2018 and prevailed in his first fight by decision for regional company WXC. Three and a half years later, “The Nomad” would compete in his second bout, this time for Cage Warriors. Damon achieved a KO in his CW debut. Two months later, Wilson’s name would rapidly increase in popularity after his 11-second KO at Cage Warriors 130. Wilson fought for Cage Warriors once again in March of this year and was victorious against Ryan Fillingame in the first round, continuing the Nomad’s winning streak.
I was fortunate enough to speak with Damon Wilson ahead of his fight at CW 143:
Damon Wilson Interview
This will be your 4th fight for cage warriors, what does it mean to you to fight for such a big company on a global stage?
“An absolute blessing to compete for Cage Warriors. They came to the states at the perfect time because I had moved to Cali to train full time, grinded through the pandemic with no opportunities until they arrived and set the benchmark here in California MMA. Success comes from preparation and opportunity so it’s honestly a simple formula but can’t do it by myself”
What are your short-term, and long-term goals within the sport?
“My short term goal is to focus on the task at hand and that’s putting on a show on the 23rd. My long-term goal is to keep striving to be a world champ in whatever organization I’m with and leave my legacy through a highlight reel of violence that my grandkids will show there friends.”
The vast majority of Cage Warriors cards are based in the UK. Does fighting in the UK in the near future appeal to you at all?
“I’m open to all possibilities. UK fans are phenomenal in this sport and there is a lot of solid competition to choose from. I have some friends in the UK I’ve trained with over the past few years and maybe a couple of fans, but let’s be honest I’d be getting heavy boos which could be cool.”
What qualities do you possess that you believe will give you the edge over your opponent?
“Every fighter can throw punches and kicks. My intangible assets set me apart from the competition. Durability, finishing ability, and mindset. In simple terms, I take a punch and give a punch better than any 45-pounder in the world.”
With a win at CW 143, is there any opponent or organization out there that you have your eyes on?
“Either the Cage Warriors belt or the UFC. The 145-pound strap in on the line in November so hopefully them boys finally settle their differences. Whatever call comes I’ll be ready to entertain the masses”
How would you describe your fight style to those who have never watched you fight before? Is there anybody at the top of the sport you would compare your style to?
“I look to do the most damage in the allotted amount of time given. I walk forward with my hands high, chin tucked, and let the leather fly. Seems like I’m a combination of two of my favorite fighters who happen to also be my teammates, Dominick Cruz and Jeremy Stephens“
Dangerous combination! Who are some of your favorite fighters to watch in the sport, and why?
“I like guys that bring the fight every time. Grew up watching Fedor, a stoic character with zero fears in the cage. Chris Lytle is one of my favorite fighters of all time and the most underrated in my opinion. Modern era I find myself most excited watching my teammates compete, truly dedicated martial artists”
How did you get into the sport?
“Wrestled all my life. We had an uncle that would record pride events growing up and once the UFC was on tv I’d watch every fight with my old man while betting push-ups against each other. Hooked on it for as long as I can remember.”
Outside of fighting, what do you like to do in your free time? Do you have any interesting hobbies at all?
“Back home in Illinois I’d be hunting and fishing. Can’t do much of that in California but I like playing disc golf, golf, rock climbing, or anything sports related. I like to compete and challenge myself”
Fight Prediction
And finally, how do you predict the fight to go down?
“15 minutes of violence or until the ref pulls me off…The ref always pulls off”
Awesome mate thank you I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me, is there anybody you would like to shout-out?
“I appreciate you shining a light on a small town kid like myself. Probably to many sponsors to name so maybe just shoutout my whole support system and all who have helped me along the way. Thank ya”
Featured image credits to Damon Wilson
