Calvin Mooney is set for his second amateur mixed martial arts contest this Saturday at Almighty Fighting Championship 29, and the Carlson Gracie Hull representative is not lacking in confidence.
Mooney made his amateur debut last year at Caged Steel 29, which saw him kickstart his career with a unanimous decision over Haraldur Arnarson. Saturday night, he now has the opportunity to move to 2-0 when met with Peter Newti in a catchweight bout.
Almighty FC 29 takes place at the Metrodome in Barnsley on Feb. 25, and those attending are treated to eighteen matchups, including amateur and professional MMA action.
We had the opportunity of catching up with Calvin Mooney, who let us into his mind before fight night. Read the full exclusive interview below.
Interview with Calvin Mooney
You’re set to make your second appearance as an amateur at Almighty FC 29. How are the body and mind as we close in on fight night?
“I’m very focused, so my habits and body are improving daily.”
Last year, at Caged Steel 29, you made your amateur debut and left Doncaster victorious. Talk me through the whole experience and what it meant to you to get that first victory under your belt.
“It was a great experience I needed to help me get started properly. Learnt so much about preparation, mindset and strategy.”
You can’t be too hard on yourself, considering it was your first bout, but is there anything you’re really happy with and perhaps not so happy with?
“Preparation was shocking, but I’m happy I got the win and that it wasn’t too easy, it made me take my preparation a lot more seriously. I should have been more patient with my grappling too.”
You meet Peter Newti in Barnsley on Feb. 25. He started his career with a bit of a skid but managed to pick up his first win last year. What are your overall thoughts on the matchup and Peter?
“He looks comfortable striking but is not skilled in grappling. I’m comfortable everywhere, so I could knock him out or submit him.”
Calvin Mooney Talks Introduction to MMA
I like to as those who I’ve never spoken with before on their journey into the sport. How did you get involved with combat sports?
“I never really found a real passion for any sport before, then when I came across mma, I instantly got addicted.”
Almighty FC is one of the best places to display your skill set in the UK regional scene for those who didn’t catch your MMA debut. Sell it to them. What can they expect to see from Calvin Mooney on fight night?
I appreciated being compared to Dominic Cruz by a commentator in my debut, but I barely showed what I’m capable of.
Who inspires/motivates Calvin Mooney? Any fighters or friends and family that really push you to be better?
“I find inspiration in many places, but it helps to have my brother push me, and my coach Owen Livesey helps show what’s possible.”
You have the opportunity to kickstart your 2022 with a bang. What does the rest of the year look like for you if you’re victorious on Feb.25?
“I want to stay as active as possible and keep adding more training bit by bit. Hopefully, I get to fight the weekend after then. I’d like to turn pro.”
Finally, could you leave us with your official prediction? How does Calvin Mooney get it done at Almighty FC 29?
“I don’t want to limit my options and focus on only one path to victory, but I don’t see it going to a decision. I see myself finishing him in the first round.”
Featured image credits to Calvin Mooney
