Strongman Eddie Hall credits training alongside a UFC champion as a significant factor in his impressive mixed martial arts debut.
The British strongman entered professional MMA for the first time last Saturday at KSW 105 in Poland, facing off against fellow World`s Strongest Man victor, Mariusz Pudzianowski.
The 37-year-old Hall quickly defeated the five-time World`s Strongest Man and KSW veteran in just 30 seconds, ending the bout with persistent ground and pound strikes.
Known as `The Beast`, Hall sought guidance from interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall and his father, Andy, in the months leading up to his fight against Pudzianowski in Poland.
He expressed immense gratitude for their help in securing his victory.
He commented, “I believe Tom and Andy would be quite pleased with that performance.”
“I`ve trained with Tom a bit, and as I`ve mentioned before, stepping into the ring with him is a truly humbling experience.”
“You might think you know how to fight or wrestle, but training with Tom makes you feel completely outmatched.”
“Tom wished me luck. He sent me a message today saying, `Good luck with the fight, and remember to enjoy yourself.`”
“Being around them, especially Andy Aspinall, who is an exceptional coach, was invaluable.”
“Andy can explain a technique once, and after seeing it, you instantly understand what to do.”
“So, those few training sessions with Tom and Andy really paid off. They significantly impacted the outcome.”
Despite his dominant victory over KSW veteran Pudzianowski, Hall indicated he doesn`t plan to become a regular fighter in the Polish promotion`s heavyweight ranks.
Asked about his future plans, he joked, “Perhaps Mariusz would agree to a rematch with two-minute rounds.”
He stated, “I don`t aspire to be the top fighter in KSW.”
“That`s simply not my goal. I want to participate and enjoy myself.”
“I want to fight against people I admire or those who are uniquely challenging opponents.”
Percy Harlow