Martin Kampmann is one of UFC’s rising stars. Actually, he already is a star. He sports a record of 17-3 and is not planning on slowing down anytime soon. UFC 121 on Saturday (Oct. 23rd, 2010) will be one of the biggest fights in his career against the highly touted grappler, Jake Shields. Dana White has stated that Shields will probably get a Title shot if he beats Martin Kampmann. But, Kampmann isn’t planning on making it easy for Shields as he trains hard at the Xtreme Couture Gym for the showdown come Saturday in Anaheim, CA.
NERDSociety caught up with Kampmann as he took a short break from training to do the interview.
NS: How is training going?
Kampmann: Good, just training hard for the fight as usual.
NS: Did you change anything in your training routine for the fight against Jake Shields?
Kampmann: No, not really. But, I’ll tell you that my takedown defense is key in winning this fight.
NS: You were able to defeat Paulo Thiago at UFC 115 because you dominated him on your feet, and on the ground. Do you think that Shields will be a tougher opponent on the ground?
Kampmann: Definitely, Thiago is a strong fighter, but Shields is better in wrestling and more dominant in jiu-jitsu.
NS: In our last interview, you mentioned that you like to play Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 (COD) for the PS3, have you still been playing?
Kampmann: Nah, not for a couple of months. I love the game but it took too much out of my time. I know that the new one is coming out soon, but I don’t think I’m buying it because it’s a distraction (laughs).
NS: When are you leaving for Anaheim?
Kampmann: Tomorrow morning (Tuesday)
NS: Cain Velasquez or Brock Lesnar?
Kampmann: Lesnar is a tough fighter with a lot of heart. But I think Cain will win because he has better boxing and cardio.
NS: Are you hoping for a Title shot if you beat Jake Shields?
Kampmann: YES, I hope so! If Shields gets a Title shot if he beats me, I want it if I beat him. It only makes sense.
NS: Anything else you want to say?
Kampmann: I want to thank all my fans for all their support, and also one of my sponsors – the Gunstore in Las Vegas!
NS: Good luck and thanks for the interview!
Kampmann: No problem.
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