Joe Smedley is looking to get his first career win this Saturday at Almighty Fighting Championship 30 and wants to put on a performance which he can be proud of post-fight.
The Metrodome in Barnsley will play host to Almighty FC, a venue the promotion has used regularly as of late. Those tuning in on PPV and attending will be treated to professional and amateur MMA action.
Joe Smedley will face the debuting Bodgan Finch, and we had the chance to catch up with him prior to fight day. Hear what he had to say below.
Interview With Joe Smedley
Joe, you return to the cage after a six-month break this Saturday. How is the body feeling after a short rest?
I’m probably in the best physical shape of my life. I’m all ready and geared up for Saturday.
Unfortunately, you have dropped your last three bouts. What sort of mindset are you in ahead of Almighty FC 30?
I’m in a really good space at the moment, I’ve worked on things that needed improvement in the past, and I really just want to show off my skill set, which I’ve unfortunately not been able to do as of yet.
Reflecting on your amateur career thus far. What do you think’s been going wrong? Have you been able to pinpoint the issue in order to work on improving whatever it is?
I think your amateur career is all about learning and getting ready for the pros. Compared to a lot of other fighters, I’ve not had a padded record and have fought some really tough guys, which only benefits me. Record means nothing in amateur in my opinion.
Joe Smedley on Biggest Lesson of Career So Far
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from your amateur career thus far?
I feel like I’ve learnt a lot about myself and how strong I am to keep on going no matter what happens.
I just want to touch on your praise of Rob at Therapy with Rob. How important is it to get your mental state solid as a rock in preparation?
Honestly, without Rob, I don’t know what I’d do without him. He’s been a big factor in getting that self-belief in me to open up when I’ve had my low points. It’s been great working with him for the past year or so.
You’ll meet Bodgan Finch on the weekend, who makes his debut. Although results haven’t fallen in your favour, do you think your three fights to his zero will play a factor on the night in any way?
Absolutely, experience always plays a factor in fights, but by no means am I underestimating him. I’m giving this fight my all, and he best is prepared for Saturday, believe me.
Expectations
What expectations have you set forward for yourself ahead of Almighty FC 30 in the Barnsley Metrodome?
To give a performance I can be proud of and add a finish to the highlight reel.
If Bodgan was to look at your last three fights and expect the same version to show up. What would you have to say to him?
Then he must be daft to think that. I’m evolving each and every day. You’ll see Saturday.
To finish off, just highlight what it would mean to you to get your hand raised this Saturday.
It would mean a lot to me, but I’m mostly in the mindset of putting on a good performance then the results will come.
Featured image credits to DN4 Photography
