Ryan ‘Frankie’ Franklin makes the walk on Saturday night (March 11th) in Coventry, in search of his first win in amateur MMA.
Ryan is joined by a host of talent on Battle Arena Fight Night, in which he expects to spoil his opponent, Shane Howard‘s Battle Arena debut.
We had the privilege of catching up with Ryan ahead of fight night;
Interview with Ryan Franklin
So, as we approach fight night, you approach your first bout of 2023. Tell us your thoughts & feelings leading up to the fight.
Feel very good and sharp. Had the best camp I’ve ever had. After a bit of an uphill battle since making my battle arena debut, I feel like it’s time to get the winning streak underway.
Looking to get the first win under your belt, what do you feel you’ve done differently this time out? What will give you the advantage over Shane compared to your other outings?
I just feel more relaxed and I’m going to worry less about what he is going to do. I’ll just stick to what I know I’m good at.
My opponent will be taller and probably heavier, so I’ve made sure I’m sparring with bigger guys and working the game plan. My opponent won’t beat me anywhere but I know the risks of fighting a bigger guy so will be clever and calculated.
I’d also like to add thanks to my opponent for agreeing to the fight on shorter notice after my previous opponent pulled out.
You’ve been pretty active over the last couple of years, how active do you feel you can be this year? How active would you like to be?
I’d like to get this one done. Then maybe one more before June. I have a baby girl on the way, due on the 21st of June. So I’m hoping I can still get some done, but I may not be as active as in previous years.
Frankie on the Future
How do you see the fight panning out Saturday night? have you got a specific game plan?
I don’t want to reveal too much, but you’re gonna see a better version of me. An early finish and bringing the W back to Wolverhampton BJJ.
Following Saturday night’s bout, have you any idea what’s coming next for you? Is there anybody you’d like to see step up & fight you?
When I get the win on Saturday, it will be the beginning of setting up a path to getting a Battle Arena title. Then working my way through.
I’ll fight anyone which I’ve proved with my previous opponents. So whoever wants it can get it.
Is there anyone in the MMA world you like to compare your fighting style to? or any heroes that inspire you or you look up to?
I enjoy watching old Daniel Cormier fights as he’s a shorter stockier heavy guy. So I think he would have been up against similar challenges to me.
I think anyone who has got it in them to make the walk to the cage deserves a whole lot of respect. It’s something not many people are cut out for.
I look up to Jon Jones. Made a fair few fuck ups but always dragged it back to prove he is the best.
Finally, any words for your opponent before stepping into the cage Saturday night?
Fair play for being here. Let’s get this done and get a beer after.
Where I can apologise for spoiling your Battle Arena debut? – Ryan Franklin
Featured image credits to Battle Arena
