James Wamsley will make his return to Ebbw Vale, Wales, this Saturday for his bout against Rhys Hughes. The Englishman has fought on CWAW cards several times and even challenged for the middleweight title in the summer of last year. Now, he’s ready to get back to it and put on a show for all those in attendance.
James Wamsley Return to CWAW Action
Wamsley has only been fighting for around two years but has not taken the easy route to where he is today. He went 3-0 in 2021 before experiencing a loss for the first time toward the start of the new year. Currently, his MMA record stands at 4-3, but he has managed to stay active in other combat sports, also.
Ahead of his next fight, he stated that he’s “very ready to get back in there. I just wanna do what I love and put on a scrap worthy of people having a few drinks to”.
In his first fight with CWAW, he scored a huge first-round knockout to announce himself to the Welsh fans. “Since that fight, I think I’ve improved a lot. Not just physically but mentally. I feel way more ready for anything that comes my way and even more ready to reflect my style of fighting in the cage.
“I think due to the athletes I’ve had the chance to face since I started, it’s sharpened me to be a much more present and prepared fighter. Hopefully, with the next win, I can be present enough to avoid doing the McGregor strut as a celebration this time…”.
Facing Wales’ Rhys Hughes
His opponent comes into this fight with a lot experience and skill also. Rhys Hughes is a product of Celtic Pride gym and, like his opponent, has also fought for CWAW gold in the past. Speaking on preparing for Hughes’ skillset, Wamsley believes if he can get his body keyed in, he should be able to react to whatever challenges come his way.
Fans can expect a great deal of excitement from this fight and Wamsley has promised it will deliver. “I honestly have no idea what’s going to go down. He’s ready for me and I’m ready for him. All I know is, it’s gonna be a constant and aggressive pace”.
What’s Different About This Fight?
If you’ve watched James Wamsley compete in the past, you may have noticed that his girlfriend is always in his fight corner. Well, this time, they’re upping the ante. This time, she too is fighting on the card. Miriam Grubb will make the walk herself when she takes on Shore MMA’s Lauren Allwood.
“Yeah it’s funny, it’s the first time both of us are fighting on the same night. Normally, the other will act as a runner for the other on the day of the fight. Which is nice. But honestly, both knowing we’re competing together has pushed both of us to work even harder as both of us want to have the better fight!”
Not only that, but James’ famous long hair is no more. “With the new short hair, we will be bringing a more aerodynamic and speedy approach to this fight. However, less hair does mean less padding, so, I’ve decided we just won’t get hit to offset the defence nerf”.
What Does The Future Hold?
Wamsley trains out of Lions Den Gym in Exeter, alongside his partner. Speaking on his gym, he stated: “I love training at the Den. Having others around with similar mindsets is what you need in this game. Dave is a great coach who pushes anyone who is willing to be pushed”.
After a busy 2022, he doesn’t want to slow down this year. He believes he can get 4-5 fights in before the years end, injuries permitting. From there, he’s taking things one step at a time, but turning to professional fighting does certainly excite him.
“Hell yeah, if it means I can challenge myself and I get to fight, then being a pro is definitely an ambition. I’m gonna keep working towards it. I wanna make sure I earn the right to move in to the pro ranks.”
James Wamsley returns to action this Saturday at CWAW9 where he will face Rhys Hughes. This fight is set be explosive and not one to be missed. We will be covering the whole event right here. Stay tuned.
Featured image credits to Cage Warriors Academy Wales
