Highly skilled English fighter, Joe Taylor, says he is excited to fight for the Cage Warriors Academy Wales featherweight title in Ebbw Vale when he’ll face-off against current champion, Ieuan Mackenzie.
Tricky grappler, Taylor, goes into his bout with an impressive 6-1 amateur record, with five of his six fights ending by way of finish. Now, he’s ready to add an amateur title to his list of fighting achievements.
Cage Warriors Academy Wales Featherweight Title Preparation
“Camp is going great! I feel excited for this one. I’m coming to the end of my amateur career now, and so it will be a nice finish it was a belt.”
The current champion, Mackenzie, will look to make his first title defence with his record currently sitting at 6-3 and also a great deal of amateur experience.
“I think Ieuan is a very durable fighter and great all around. He definitely has some good experience under his belt, especially in the IMMAF (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation). He’ll definitely bring the best out in me.”
Training at Manchester Top Team
Recently, Taylor decided to take his training camps to Manchester Top Team, have trained fighters like Lerone Murphy, Kane Mousah and former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir.
“The coaches at Manchester Top Team and Banbury Martial Arts Centre have been amazing. They have a genuine interest in helping me improve my overall ability.
“In my previous fights, I would usually do all my skill work in Banbury (his hometown) and then travel up to Birmingham for sparring. The best bit about now being at MTT is having everything there and not having to travel.”
His last fight came in October of last year, also in Ebbw Vale, when he got a round two TKO victory over James Kendra and the first KO victory of his career.
“I have definitely improved since October. Training with the calibre of fighters in Manchester has definitely sharpened up all areas of my game. I think my biggest attribute is my grappling, although I am constantly improving my striking.”
Joe Taylor Turning Pro?
Nearing the age of 24, he believes it may be time to take his career to the next step, stating: “I have put a lot of time into this sport and made a lot of sacrifices, even as an amateur. It would be an injustice to myself and coaches if I did not make a run at the pro ranks in the future.”
With his title bout going down on March 26th, Taylor believes we will witness the best version of himself and fans in attendance will be treated to a spectacle.
“People can expect to see the best of myself, well rounded and ready to take the fight anywhere. I haven’t thought too deep into how the fight ends, but I know I have the ability and attributes to finish it wherever it may go.”
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Featured image credits to Cage Warriors Academy Wales
