Interview with UFC’s Martin Kampmann

Tonight, on Spike before UFC 108 Evans vs. Silva begins, two preliminary fights will be shown. One of which features Martin “Hitman” Kampmann (15-3) goes head to head with Jacob Volkmann (9-1). This should be a tremendous welterweight showdown. We had the chance to speak with Martin Kampmann to discuss his fight tonight.

Fight Trader: What are your thoughts on your opponent?

Martin Kampmann: Jacob Volkmann is a really good wrestler who is in excellent condition. I want to avoid getting the fight to the ground which is one of his strengths.

Fight Trader: Did you see anything in his fight against Paulo Thiago you feel you can exploit?

MK: He has a really awkward style. It’s something not customary. I’m planning on knocking him out.

FT: Let’s talk about your fight with Paul Daley. Give me your thoughts on the fight? Was it stopped too early?

MK: I felt it was stopped too early. I was still defending myself, but that’s how it goes sometimes. I’m not one to make excuses. I was pretty disappointed in myself for trading punches with him. I should have fought him smarter, but I just have to learn from the fight.

FT: What was training camp like for this fight? I know it has to be pretty strenuous at Xtreme Couture?

MK: My training camp was really good. I was working with Mike Pyle who has a fight tonight also. It was a tough training camp which pushed me hard. It’s always good when you have a difficult training camp.

FT: You were slated to fight Rory Markham on Saturday, how has the change of opponent affected you?

MK: Markham and Volkmann are very different. One is a striker and another is a wrestler who is also a southpaw. Regardless, I am prepared to handle business later tonight.

FT: What does it mean fighting on Spike TV on the prelim card?

MK: It’s great fighting on Spike, more exposure, and better sponsorship. I look forward to fighting in front of all the fans watching on Spike.

FT: Can you give me a prediction for this Sat?

MK: I’m looking to knockout Jacob Volkmann. This is a fight I can build myself back up with.

FT: How has dropping to 170 been for you? Is it an easier cut than the first time you tried?

MK: At first it was difficult, but now it’s really easy. I feel good at welterweight.

FT: Is there anything you’d like to add to tell all your fans?

MK: I’d like to thank them for all the support. I really appreciate them watching my fight. I look forward to putting on a show tonight. I made promise to win every fight this year, and it starts tonight against Jacob Volkmann.

To take a look at Martin’s Fighter Profile on Fight Trader go here
Martin Kampmann’s Fighter Profile

By: Ray Flores