Nathan Lambert is all set to compete for the Almighty Fighting Championship welterweight title this Saturday at AFC 31 in Wales.
Lambert, who believes his high pressure and pace will be enough to wear his opponent down, enters the fight with an imposing (7-2) record. Jack Oxley is the man that stands in his way after suffering a late opponent change several weeks out.
We had the opportunity of speaking with Nathan Lambert prior to fight night. Hear what he had to say below.
Interview With Nathan Lambert
Nathan, you’re all set to compete for the AFC welterweight strap. How’s the mindset and body as we close in on fight night?
“Feeling phenomenal, I thought I might burn myself out bouncing from fight camp to fight camp, but honestly, it’s worked out perfectly. I’m excited to get back in there.”
You’ve suffered an opponent change a few weeks out. How much has that affected preparation, or have you just dialled in, and focused on what you can do as opposed to who and what’s in front of you on July 1st?
“I’ve learnt over time not to get fixated on what my opponents might do and to focus purely on my own game. Pullouts happen too often as an amateur, and I’m never surprised to find out I’m facing someone new. I’ve purely focused on getting better and getting fitter, and now I’m all dialled in and ready to go.”
Saturday night will mark the first time you’ve competed on Almighty FC. What do you know about the show, and how much are you looking forward to writing your name into their championship history books?
“I’m excited to get my name out there and put myself on another excellent show, Almighty FC is an amazing platform to be able to show my skillset, and I look forward to fighting for that belt.”
2023 has been very good to you thus far in terms of competition. How would you sum up the year you’ve had up until now?
“2023 has definitely been a great year for me so far. I’ve been taking every opportunity I can, and by being active, I see more and more opportunities and challenges, and I don’t intend to slow down yet. I’m looking to make a big statement as a fighter this year.”
Nathan Lambert Talks Facing First Career Loss
When you suffered your first amateur loss, you then went on a tremendous winning streak. After suffering your second, you’ve won two on the bounce. What is it about losses that light a fire in some fighters’ belly’s that they then go on finishing streaks?
“I believe a lot of fighters go through similar experiences of relaxing a bit and being too content with the way things are. I was naive to think that I was doing enough at the time. My losses were my wake-up calls. I had to work harder. Now I train like an animal, and the work pays off.”
Jack Oxley is the man you’ll now face for gold. What do you know about your opponent, and what do you expect him to bring to the table come Saturday night?
“Honestly, not much, I know he fights out of Carlson Gracie Hull under Owen Livesey, so I anticipate a good level of grappling, but I won’t be making any assumptions. I’ll assume I need to stay sharp for every situation he might bring.”
Experience is a massive factor in this contest. Do you anticipate that playing a factor in the result on Saturday?
“I believe so. My experience in the cage has improved my fighting IQ undoubtedly.”
Finally, tell us how you get it done and get that welterweight title draped over your shoulder.
“I’ll keep the pressure high and wear him down, my opportunity will come, and the title will come home with me.”
Featured image credits to UKFC
