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Hungry: Manuwa

JIMI MANUWA has his heart set on conquering the UFC and becoming the best MMA fighter in the world following his recent title defense against Shaun Lomas.

The south-east Londoner, nicknamed the ‘Poster Boy’, told the Voice of Sport that seeing some of his stable mates from the two teams he trains with making the step up to the UFC has inspired him to reach for the top.

Currently preserving an unblemished record of sevens wins from seven fights, Ultimate Challenge champion Manuwa, 29, says he believes he has what it takes to succeed in the UFC.

“Every fighter wants to be the best in the world and I am no different. It’s going to be a big step up but I am used to that, I am used to taking risks. I believe I can do it,” he said.

He added: “A look at all the other British fighters that have stepped up and you see some that have done well. Look at Dan Hardy, I think he was proper in the last UFC event in this country.

“My teammates help me a lot as well. Some are already stepping up to fight in the UFC, so we drive each other on. I’m no big fish in my pond.”

Manuwa fights out of Nova Forca and Keddles gyms. He credits them with honing his ground game and his strength and conditioning but it’s widely recognized that his striking ability will be always be his forte.

Already itching to get back into training Manuwa, whose catchphrase is lions eat first, says he will stick to his regime of fighting every three months giving his body time to recover fully.

He said: “Next year is going to be tough, it’s no joke now, the opponents are getting better and better and I’ll need to be on top of my game. I want to be the poster boy of UK MMA.”

Published: 13 December 2009
Issue: 1402

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