James Gallagher | RIZIN Debut, Paul Hughes Injured & Irish MMA News | The Energized Show

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What is up and welcome to The Energized Show! On this episode Subzone MMA's James Gallagher joins us to discuss his debut fight at RIZIN in Japan, Paul Hughes' Injury & Irish MMA News. Like, Comment, Subscribe & Hit the notification bell for more Energized Shows! Youtube …

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I shine under that big spotlight, you know what I mean? That's where I come to life. That's what That's what brings That's what brings me out of me. Do you know what I mean? When you're going fighting these smaller shows and whatever, it's kind of like yeah, it's exciting to go and fight. Always I love the fight, but when it's such a big big show and such a big like spotlight on it, that's where I really shine. >> [music] >> The Energize Show up the Irish. Okay, here we go. >> [screaming] >> Okay, what's going on, guys? Welcome to a brand new episode of Energize, brought to you by Our Kings Competitions. Ross >> Are you intoxicated or something? Introduce the guest, man. Today we are bringing you Irish MMA superstar. He is the new face of Rizin. It is the one and only Strabanimal. It is James Gallagher. James, how are you doing, my friend? Yes, boys. Thank you very much for having me on. It's a pleasure. Uh Always always. Welcome >> It's become It's become a tradition. James Gallagher fights, he's on the Energize Show. We love it, you love it. It's all good things. James, tell us this. How much are you looking forward to sinking your teeth into getting into Rizin? This is a new promotion for you. You're fighting over in Japan. Brand new experiences for you. And also the first Irish man to fight on the promotion. How cool is that? Ah, man. It's [ __ ] brilliant, you know what I mean? I feel like it's the start of something big. Do you know what I mean? It was kind of like when I got signed to Bellator back when I was [ __ ] 18 years old, you know what I mean? And then there was a wave of Irish fighters came through as well and and came behind me. And [snorts] I feel like it's going to be the start of something big for fighters around Europe fighting over in Japan. And then with just with the rules set, how they run things and stuff, it feels like just like a perfect fit and I'm [ __ ] very excited. It's like I'm like a kid at Christmas again, do you know what I mean? Getting to do something new. Something new, but I've been doing it all my life. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. And look, we've we've seen we've seen I suppose MMA in Japan like most people are probably familiar with Pride if they're watching anything. Is this fight going to be inside a cage or inside a ring? Yeah, so this one's going to be in a cage. They do like three or four shows a year in a ring. So it does in the some super stadium in Tokyo. But all of them are not in a ring. So they're not bad. This one's in a cage, thank god. I'd prefer the cage to be honest, you know what I mean? Especially when you're wrestling and grappling. It's a bit of a nightmare in a ring, but I've fought in a ring before when I was back when I was amateur back in the days when they used to put the ring in their little [ __ ] bar and go and have a knock. >> [laughter] >> Is that something that you would like to do a super show in Japan? Even if it is in the ring, just to just to get that as in one of those big Tokyo Dome style arenas. >> because that's where they hold it in the Tokyo Dome. So they do that in New Year. So ideally what I would love to do is go in run through this guy, soccer kick his head back into the right corner >> [snorts] >> and then go fight in August again against Patchy Mix and then have a big one then in the Tokyo Dome at the New Year's Eve show. Yeah. How How big is the Tokyo Dome? [ __ ] I've no clue. I think it's about 20,000, is it? Yeah, I think I think I think it's something like that. It's huge like I suppose they do all the the big Pride events there back in the day. I know that they hold a lot of like Is it New Japan Wrestling? I think the the wrestling's real big over there as well. So like Yeah. But like I've seen it over there that I like that apparently that's massive over there. So like you know they used to holding these big stadium events in in there. >> this this one's 15,000 and it was sold out in 5 hours. So it was So they're absolutely killing it, you know what I mean? And it's It's in the productions of the show something else and just how I how everything's been running with them and how you all every all the communications, how it was negotiated. Everything's just been [ __ ] ideal to be honest. And and it's nice to be a part of something that's very legitimate and something that's very high level. And I feel like it's exactly where I should be. Yeah. 55,000. Jeez, they they hold a baseball in there and everything they do. Jeez, that's crazy. >> 55,000? Yeah. 65? 55. 55. [ __ ] yeah. James, can you tell us well like before we get into how you sign with Rizin like when you enter like fans go bananas like especially like the amount of times that when you headline the three arena like everyone was singing like what like the Japanese fans are known for being for quite quiet and respectful. Like what do you think that contrast is going to be like? I'm going to go and check the place over, my little boys. >> [laughter] >> Think I'll be free from desire. Yeah, waiting for James Gallagher to come out free from desire and the the the crowd are going nuts. Yeah. >> [laughter] >> Nah, so it is but uh So that's like the kind of like theory that they have is that the fans are very quiet and all, but when you're in fighting and something that is very high level happens, they they lose their minds, you know what I mean? So for me that it says rather than a lot of people just going out and getting pissed up and going off their heads, you know what I mean? If somebody walks out to music or whatever, is that they're very educated fans and very knowledgeable fans so that they get excited about when something high level happens, which is when you're fighting other places especially in America, that if you're doing a clean double leg takedown, everybody boos. Do you know what I mean? And that that's not really It's MMA you're going to be watching. You're not going to be watching two people just stand and bang, you know what I mean? So I'm very excited. I feel like that that I'm going to be a fan favorite out there especially with me style and the way that I bring high level grappling. Yeah. Look, James, we're obviously very excited. Like that's why we had to have you on. You're going to be fighting on the 12th of April. That's going to be a Sunday over here. So like everyone's going to be tuning in. James, can you tell us how did this Rizin like opportunity come about? Cuz obviously you're looking for a new place to call home and this one is now you're going to be there for a while, hopefully. Yeah, I was just kind of I was just training and then I was kind of like looking everywhere, shopping around, trying to get offers. And I had a few people come in and it was just kind of like they knew that I was looking for a fight so they'd give me a lowball offer. So then I was just taking my stance. I was going nah, [ __ ] this, you know what I mean? I know what I'm worth and I know what I bring to the table and I'd rather not do it if I'm not going to go and get what I'm worth and just be used, you know what I mean? And and then I just got the head down training. Hopefully something come up and then I got the message then saying that Rizin might be interested for it was [snorts] a different show. And I was all sweet. So I just kept the head down and then that didn't come through. So I just kept persistent on them. I was like, what's the deal? What's the deal? Is there any opportunities? What's happening? And then it came through then. They came through with a good opponent and nice offer. They gave me a one-year contract and they said if this one goes well, then we'll sit down and retalk again. So it's going to go well. We're going to sit down and retalk again in then 2 weeks. I love it. I love it. That is very exciting. >> [laughter] >> Yeah. I think I think you'll make a big splash over there as you do everywhere you go, James. By the way, one final piece on the on the Tokyo Dome, that's where Mike Tyson Tyson lost to Buster Douglas Is that where it was in the Tokyo Dome? Yeah. I had no idea it was over in Japan when he lost that fight. Me neither. That would be a great show, wouldn't it? They go and fight out there. And I I think that will happen. I mean, I'm perfect for >> [snorts] >> I'm perfect for what they want out there. Do you know what I mean? So it'll be good. If you want someone on a big stage to not crumble under the spotlight, you're the guy. Yeah. And not only that, I shine under that big spotlight, you know what I mean? That's where I come to life. That's what That's what brings That's what brings me out of me. Do you know what I mean? When you're going fighting these smaller shows and whatever, it's kind of like yeah, it's exciting to go and fight. Always I love the fight, but when it's such a big big show and such a big like spotlight on it, that's where I really shine, you know what I mean? That's what I love to do. I love to go out there and put on a show for them kind of fans that are going to come out there and [ __ ] out there they're going to be very educated and go absolutely mad when I [ __ ] do something spectacular. Absolutely. They're obviously going to look and see like is there any other Irish talent around as well? Like once once you go and make a splash. Like same as same as Bellator did back in the day. 100%, you know what I mean? And that's what I That's what [snorts] I come to do, you know what I mean? I come here to get the title and put the Irish market on the on the line and show them that where there's a [ __ ] pool of people out here that can be signed. Do you know what I mean? So it'll be very interesting to see what moves happen after this one. And >> [snorts] >> that's why I feel like this one's such a big fight. So I do the go out here and represent me and go out there and represent what I do very very well and I look forward to seeing what what they bring behind it. Yeah. Make some noise. And James, on this one you're fighting Kasumasa Majima. Obviously he's he's got 18 wins, but 15 of those are by submission. So do you think this fight he's going to play into your hand? Obviously on the ground is where you you've gotten the majority of your wins. Do you think that's that's where it's going to end in this fight? Or do you think maybe he'll try something different cuz he doesn't want to go toe-to-toe neck for neck with the Strabanimal? I feel like that it's a bad choice either way because I feel like my skill levels on the feet are way better. So that you think he will try to get it to the ground. And my kind of style of grappling is when you try to take me down, do you know what I mean? That's where I really shine. And and I feel like people have been scared to do that. Do you know what I mean? My front headlock game and then with the knees to the head on the ground, I just don't think it's going to be I think it's going to be a bad bad night for him. So I do. Especially [snorts] with my guillotines, all these kind of things going on all these different kind of threats that I've got. So it's kind of like going what option they want to take. Do you know what I mean? So I feel like I've got it all covered and uh it's going to be a bad night either no matter where it goes for. And tell us this, James. How do you train those knees to the head on the ground? Cuz obviously when when you're on the mats, your training partners aren't going to be like give us a knee in the head there. That would [laughter] be good practice. I just left the gym there and there's a few boys going, thank [ __ ] I don't have to get kneed in the head in the ground anymore. >> [laughter] >> So, it is, but now you just have to do it. Yeah. You know what I mean? Shin pads and knee pads on and and uh and practice it, you know what I mean? And also, it's more so it's very easy to add in strikes like that when you're when you're dominating, but the biggest factor is knowing the positions that I can't use because I'll get kneed in the mush myself, you know what I mean? So, that that was the biggest factor, but now we just spent the last [ __ ] 10 weeks covering it and I feel like that has opened up so many more opportunities for my game and it's a for my kind of dominant style pressure, it's kind of like when I don't have to be so like worried or have so much anxiety about pinning the guy to the mat because on his way up, I'm going to bust them up with knees and kicks. Do you know what I mean? So, it's kind of like flowed into my game very well. Yeah, I know, absolutely. And I I do want to actually touch on uh Sub Zone uh itself. Obviously, that that's where your com- com- homeland and uh really high-level, super super coaching team there. One person I actually want to ask you about is one who's recently hung up the gloves. Uh one of the OGs in Sub Zone, Mr. James Power. Uh what what do you make of uh his decision to hang up the gloves? Obviously, a very talented guy. Yeah, man. James is a beast. I seen him he was in sparring he was uh with Owen Ellick before his last fight. Mhm. And man, he's [ __ ] he's [ __ ] hot, you know what I mean? But it's kind of like it's easy for us to sit and look at it and go, like, you know what I mean? He's that talented. He should have kept going and all this stuff. But when your mind's not in it and your mind, you know what I mean? And you have other other aspirations in life, you know what I mean? Then just go with it. Just go with it, you know what I mean? And the fellow is [ __ ] he was an animal in the cage, you know what I mean? So, it's kind of one of them ones if that's the the mind frame that you're in, then that's the mind frame that you should go with. Yeah, I suppose and look, he has his own gym powerhouse as well that he he's he's concentrating on and I'm pretty sure he has a young family as well, so fair play to him. But he he he was just a just a real nice guy, but absolutely monster in the cage. >> Yeah, man, he's [ __ ] solid, isn't he? He's just one of them guys that looks he's just like looks to be a nightmare to fight because he's just so vicious everywhere and has power has [ __ ] power on every everything he throws has power behind it. Yeah, oh, absolutely. They don't call him James Power for nothing. That's his surname. [laughter] But uh obviously, the gym is on fire at the moment. Like the the the facility looks world-class, you know what I mean? Uh the bodies on the mat are incredible. Uh but not only the the skills on the mat are incredible. Uh there there must be some trash talking uh going on there between yourself, Shea Ingram, Owen Ellick when they get on the mat. Who cuts the best promos out of the [laughter] team? That's what I want to know. Uh you're you're looking at the fellow that cuts the best promo. So, yeah, you're [laughter] looking at him. So, it is it? Owen's actually he's coming down to me gas tonight, so it is. So, I'm going to hear about this if this goes right. Uh >> [laughter] >> no, but it's [ __ ] great, so it is. Just been in in the same where it's so when we're off off the match training, it's all always like that, you know what I mean? Everybody just getting each other's stick and having a bit of crack in that and then it it's good vibes, but when we're on the mat, it's not it's not like that, you know what I mean? We're we're we're in there working, trying to make every- everyone better and uh get after it, you know what I mean? And just to be in a room with people because I've been where the having the crack transfers to being on the mat as well. When you step on the mat, Cam will tell you to shut your [ __ ] mouth and get to work. Do you know what I mean? So, it's a it's a great vibe in there and the the coaching behind it, the teammates, everybody's kind of everybody's just got their own way, you know what I mean? To do it and then Cam puts in the final touches to give them the full barrel as we call it. Mhm. So, it is. So, I'm uh it's it's great, man. I feel like my level has just got so so so much better. And then just the the vibe of having a good team behind you, you know what I mean? I can just reach out to Cam anytime I want just to you know what I mean? If I'm coming home and about techniques and sharing stuff, sharing videos, etc. etc. and now when I go to Japan next week, I'll have messages every day making sure I've done this, if you've done that, you know what I mean? So, it's just just nice to feel a part of a good team like that and to be grown with these boys, you know what I mean? Because all these boys are on the come up and on the hunt the same way as I am and we're all doing our own thing. Mhm. Yeah, I I suppose also like so many different people are in different organizations as well, which creates an opportunity and opens doors for more fighters cuz a lot of time, you know, if there's a pro weight on the card and you're in training, you're like, look, there's a welterweight there, there's a lightweight there available, you know what I mean? Like you can like, well, there's a lad here I'm training with he's sharp, he's ready to go. And the opportunities are constantly there. So, I think I think, you know, as the gym grows and as as people are improving and ready, you know, those opportunities will present themselves to everyone across the gym by having people like yourself in the gym. Yeah, 100% and then also it's kind of like everyone in your weight class is in training camp the same time you are. Mhm. You know what I mean? If they have a fight, they're back in the gym the next week helping you get ready. You know what I mean? And that's the the one thing that I like about it is like you're we're we're not chilling, we're not taking a break until everybody's on a break. So, it's kind of like we're all full steam ahead at the minute and at the weekend there, there was three professionals uh on BMF and then we had Jack Cartwright on PFL and it was full four and 0. Mhm. Do you know what I mean? And uh all tough fights, all high-level talented they were uh and their opponents, you know what I mean? And it's really really starting to shine through. There's been a lot of hard work put in since the new year. It was kind of like eased off a little bit uh after just uh before Christmas and then as soon as [ __ ] I think it was just before New Year's then we all got stripped back at it and got put through the mixer again. Yeah. Well, look, it's good to hear that you're adjusting to life well in Manchester. And also, obviously from looking at your socials, you're putting out more content than ever. Yeah. Uh James, can you tell us like also, obviously you have this big fight on the 12th of April. Like how long you going to be in Japan for and are there any other things you're going to do over there? I'm flying out tonight. Or just with your team? I'm flying out tonight. With your team? You're flying out tonight? Yeah, I'm flying out tonight, so I am. I bought like 2:00 in the morning. So, it is, but now when I get there, I meet me me dad over there. Me and Owen's flying out tonight and then I's going to be locked in full steam ahead. I'm not I'm not coming to be going sightseeing in Japan, you know what I mean? Or anything like this here. I'm coming to give them the full barrel as we call it and uh get stuck into them and uh get that win, you know what I mean? And then maybe in the future it'll present itself to go and see Japan, but right now I've got a fight on my hands and uh that's what I'm coming here to do is go and fight. Yeah. Are you expecting Rizin to like promote you a lot on socials as well? Being like Yeah, 100%. It's Do you know what I mean? Especially when you get over there and get in the fight week groove and get really focused, you know what I mean? I'll be cutting promos left, right, and center. >> [laughter] >> Yeah. Well, like it's very exciting for us as Irish MMA fans as well to see like what what a different organization is doing with the Irish fighters. So, it's going to be very interesting cuz like the whole country's going to be like, what's going on over there, you know? 100% and then just that kind of aura that I bring as well to the table is kind of going, what's going to happen? Yeah. How is he going to do? How is he going to live up to this talk? How is he going to live up to all these expectations that he has in himself? And let's see, you know what I mean? Let's see cuz I know I know what I've been doing and I know the work that I've been putting in as me and my team. So, rather than coming out here and talking about it and doing this and doing that, then just go and see, you know what I mean? I'm putting it all on the line. I'm going to leave it all in there and I'm going to go and do it. No, exactly. We'll be keeping everyone up to date on what time James is fighting and how to watch the fight as well. So, you don't have to annoy James. How happy are you about >> Yeah, appreciate that, boys. Thanks very much. The phone will be on do not disturb that day. But it's on rizin. tv. So, it is. There's a pay-per-view link on rizin.tv. So, I think it's a few quid, 20 quid or something like that there to get all the fights. So, it'll be on by I think about 7:00 7:00 8:00 on Sunday morning on April 12th. So, it is. So, tune in and see the Jimmy show. Exactly. As always. The real main event. The moment that Don Davis had over there. Yeah, [ __ ] hell. You can put put your screen on mute when he comes on. >> [laughter] >> Watch him. He's not a bad fighter, but just put it on mute cuz he's hard to listen to. I know. Yeah, it will it will it will all it will all be uh very entertaining as well. And especially uh I'll be I'll be keeping a close eye on the socials. You and Owen together for a few days should be should be absolutely hilarious. Dumb and Dumber on tour it will be. Oh, man. No, The Rock and Stone Cold. The Rock and Stone [laughter] Cold. That's pay-per-view right there, man. That is pay-per-view right there. He'll have you doing all the TikToks. I hope your TikTok game is is on point. >> [laughter] >> So, it is, but now I'm looking forward to that because they'll have somebody out there following me around as well. So, it is. So, we've got a good gym to go and train at and we've got a nice Airbnb and stuff. So, now we're going to go over there and give it the full works and go out there and show them what what we're about, you know what I mean? I'm going out there representing and showing them that this is not just coming out here to [ __ ] have a little fight and be appreciated of an opportunity, you know what I mean? I'm going out there to take this opportunity and grab it with both hands. Yeah, you have it. You best believe the Strabanimal is coming. Japan, new superstar is on the way, baby. Yeah. We even see James doing a bit of humor wrestling. Who knows? Make sure to tune in. [laughter] But uh James, is there anything what I'll fight when I put on a few kilo, definitely. Oh, maybe. [clears throat] Only a few, yeah. James, is there anything you want to say to the people that are tuning in now that are looking forward to seeing you fight on the 12th of April? I just want to say that I've been working very very hard here at Sub Zone with my coach Cam. I feel like he's brought my level to another level, so I do. And I'm very very excited to go out here and put Ireland on the map and show them what what I'm about. And go out there and I feel like once I soccer kick him in the into the back net, then Alex Ferguson will be giving me a phone call to come [laughter] play for Man United, wouldn't he? Could have done with you on Thursday night, Homer Helgason, man. Yeah, >> [laughter] >> also I'm uh now I'm looking very very forward to it and I feel like I'm going to the stratosphere after this one. I've just how everything's aligning up, just how my my life is, how much training is, the opportunity I've got underneath my hands. I'm I'm very excited, very composed, and very focused, and it's all going to show in there on the night. So, thanks to everybody for tuning in. Can't wait for it. I hope you enjoy it, man. Nice one, boys. Thank you very much. It's a pleasure. The MMA Joy Show, up the Irish. So, Ross, that was James Gallagher, your favorite Gallagher, man. Yeah, absolutely. James Gallagher, he is back Roy and can't wait to see it. It's going to be great to have like another show to watch Sometimes when you don't watch shows like your Roy and don't watch like one-time chips, when you see them when you're watching you get to sort of make your assumptions or you get to say, "Oh, they do that really cool over there that we don't do over here." or they don't do that over there. I wish they did do that type of thing. So, you get to sort of evaluate new show that's well-tenured and well-established that you would never really watch normally. Yeah. Well, that that's Also, I get work with Japanese. >> [laughter] >> Can't eat your what? Would be sushi that night, but Absolutely. No, it's going to be it's going to be interesting to see what way they promote James as well. So, look, it's that's why we love covering the sport cuz fighters go all around the world and compete in on different promotions. So, Roy and we're looking forward to that one. So, if you are new to the MMA Joy Show, make sure to like and subscribe because we are here every week, aren't we, Ross? Every week, baby, not to be missed. But, Bazmo, we went from one superstar, we're going to talk about another Irish superstar next. Big news coming out of Belfast for the PFL. Paul Hughes will no longer be headlining on the card. He put out a very I'm going to call it emotional video saying that he's got a bad knee injury. He will be off the card at PFL Belfast. How devastating is that for Paul, and how devastating is that promotion, Bazmo? Yeah, it's it's huge news. Mhm. Like Like obviously Paul was the face of the card. They're putting it on a Thursday night. They were like, "Look, well, Paul Hughes will sell it out no matter what." He was the reason they moved the card. Yeah. Like originally for people not that don't know, this card was meant to be on a in Boston. And then it got moved to Belfast for the the homecoming part two. So, yeah, it's a huge loss to the card, Ross, and look, really to see hopefully Paul gets back 100% healthy sooner rather than later. Yeah, look, obviously not desired by anyone. Um promotion, Paul would like the fans, everyone wanted to see him get out there and do do what he does best and get back to winning ways, but hopefully we get a speedy recovery from Paul, and hopefully we see him return to a cage near you soon. But, I suppose with you know the issue of Paul's injury becomes a massive opportunity for Derek Kelly. He now headlines the card, and he takes on JJ Wilson. This is a huge opportunity for Derek Kelly to boost his ranking on the lightweight division in Bel- or say in Belfast for PFL. I think Derek Kelly, the mobile mauler, undefeated amateur, undefeated pro, he is one of the best athletes the country has. He's in phenomenal shape always. He has a massive opportunity now to make a massive name for himself not only on the Irish and UK scene, but also on the world scene. This is going to be a massive PFL card, and this is a PFL in May card. This is not necessarily a PFL Europe card. This is one that was primed for American television, and now it's going to be on in Belfast, and he's getting the headline spot. I think this is going to be a huge opportunity for him. And also like they could have picked anyone. They could have went like Graham versus Philpott as the main event cuz this you know, two local guys going against each other. They see him as one of the next superstars, so they're putting a lot of faith in him to headline the card. And look, Derek Kelly, as you said, he's undefeated. He always delivers, and this is biggest opportunity to date against his tougher opponent to date, Bazmo. No, exactly. Look, well, look, I think everyone in the country knows Derek Kelly is waiting for a big opportunity, and now he's got the biggest opportunity of his career. Um when it was announced, some people were wondering why wasn't Reese McKee the main event. Like obviously Reese hasn't got an opponent, and like Dara is a product of Bellator into PFL. Like he is a homegrown talent. And like now we're going to see him on the biggest opportunity to date. Yeah, absolutely. I think PFL needs to get their their marketing boots on now. We're just a little over 2 weeks away from this event going down. For me, I want to see Reese McKee's opponent get announced very early this week. In fact, I want it to be announced before this podcast go comes to air. I want to see lots of footage of the likes of Ciaran Clarke, Cain Loughran, Alan Philpott. And if I were PFL, I'd be getting local videographers who are already over here to start capturing content and send over to the media team from there, and work that way. I think plenty of talented people over here doing the bits. I think like the likes of like Rosco Creative has worked with Paul Hughes before. Um JC in the Cosmos have worked with a lot of the SBG athletes before. I'd be getting on to a lot of these guys to start filming content and getting it out there for for PFL to to produce, and I think that's something that they need they need sooner rather than later. It's not easy to sell out a show on a Thursday night. It's really not easy to sell out a show on a Thursday night when your main event falls out of place. And again, I think it's something that PFL have struggled with in the past ticket sales. So, I think it's something that they really need to boost the promotion now and make it must see these fights cuz at the end of the day, people are going to have to take work off the Friday effectively or and possibly work off Thursday to get up event. And look, no one wants PFL to succeed on the Irish Irish soil more than we do. We want it for the athletes. We want it for the or for the fans, and we want another promotion to come here on a consistent basis. So, I think they really just need to up their media and PR game as time goes on because you know, unfortunately Paul Hughes won't be there on the night, but again, Reese McKee was a brilliant signing. I know they sort of went to the well with him, didn't get a deal done, went back to the well and got got the deal done, and my god, are they blessed by getting that deal done. Obviously, I wouldn't be surprised if Reese McKee is the biggest ticket seller on the night now without Paul Hughes. Obviously, big star. Big Big people are big fans of his. It'd be interesting to see It'd be It'd be interesting to know if they signed Reese cuz they knew Paul was off the card. Oh, well, look, it was a smart call to have Reese in the card regardless, and they No, we were We were saying that last week, and then when we when we put the show out, Reese had already signed. >> [laughter] >> Yeah, true. So, I can't remember exactly when the news broke, well, when we were told that Paul Hughes was off the card versus when the news broke. I know was it a day or two before Paul announced it or we were told? Yeah. Yeah, so again, like not good news, so we're not we're not going to be starting shouting off the rooftops. And look, there was no main event announced put in place, so it is what it is. You know, I suppose hard to put into words when a card loses a fight like that that where the the card was literally moved country and built for that person to be there. It is it is pretty heartbreaking that he's not there, but I suppose all we can do is focus on the athletes that are on the card. Derek Kelly, new main event. Ciaran Clarke, undefeated prospect against Dean Garnett, huge fight in the bantamweight division, huge fight sort of domestic across the UK and Ireland. Cain Loughran versus Alan Philpott, like what a fight that is going to be. An absolute cracker of a fight. The crowd is going to be absolutely electric for that. You know, both sides and sets of fans chanting on their guy. I think that's going to be absolutely incredible to see. I'm all about that one. That one's That one's sort of like my main event out of the fights. Owen Sharridan, Elshreef, going in there against the number eight ranked welterweight, Chris Bungard. Can Owen Sharridan make that step up? Can he get a number next to his name? Big implications there for the welterweight division with that one. I am Ramzan has signed to PFL now. Let's see. He won't want to wait around. He'll want a number next to his name sooner rather than later. He's someone who was former UAE Warriors champion, former tough contestant. He is someone who is an elite prospect in this country. So, let's see how does Ramzan fare in the PFL. Oma Oliver, the number one one ranked amateur bantamweight and flyweight in the country. Unbelievable prospect. Well, want to know a cage conflict. He's taking on Shane Mullan from SBG. That's going to be an unbelievable banger of two guys young in their career making their PFL debuts. It's going to be a night to be remembered, Bazmo. I am so looking forward to this card. I think it's going to be a really really good event, and I hope the fans get behind it. And on top of that as well, we also get Pedro Carvalho. He's locked in to take on Cassio, who was originally Derek Kelly's opponent. So, it's a massive fight on on the card. I'd still love to see a few more added to it to really make it a night to be remembered. I know I said it last week, but look, I'd love to see someone like a Troy Gibson, who is a free agent at the moment, get signed and get on that card. Is there anyone you'd like to see Bazmo sign and get on that card? I know you touched on it last week, Cormac McLoughlin. Who would you like to see get get on the card, Bazmo? Yeah, well, because it's up north, >> [clears throat] >> and they're going to want to sell more tickets, I think a Cormac McLoughlin, like he fought on the last one, why not this one? Like obviously Shauna Cormac fought on the last one as well, why not this one? Like look, obviously Paul not being on the card is like it's going to it's going to do less numbers, obviously. Like around over in America and stuff, but uh As you said there They're going to they're going to have to put more spotlight on the the other fighters. So therefore all their profiles will blow up in socials, etc. So it's actually It's it's good for Irish MMA either either way. But obviously The big Paul Hughes not being on the card is will be a bit of a let down, but I'm sure he'll be there in the audience like meeting the fans meeting the Irish MMA fans and I think it will be a good night. Full stop. Would you like to see Corey versus Home too? Yeah, I'd like I don't mind. I just want to see Irish fighters getting paid. Mhm. So >> Fair. I'm definitely here I'm definitely here for like look PFL You have a bit of work to do, but Look, the makings is there for a successful night. They just need to Put a bit of put an emphasis behind the fighters that they have on the card. I haven't seen That much of Derek Kelly in terms of media since he's been announced as the main event and like not his fault I haven't seen that much of Kieran Clark haven't seen that much of Kyle McLaren or Alan Philpott. Like I feel like PFL should have had a video package with Rhys McKee right to rock like the post they they released was pretty cool, but like Why don't they have someone on the ground There to go up to FAI have them sit down on a chair in the middle of the cage and do a quick interview and talk about the opportunity of him fighting in PFL Belfast. I know he doesn't have an opponent yet, but he can definitely speak to the signing. >> [snorts] >> Yeah, they could have probably done something like that over during PFL Pittsburgh that happened over the weekend even if they did a virtual face-to-face with Derek Kelly against Wilson as well. Yeah. So look at look if if we don't say stuff like this then who is and then who might like rattle the cage a bit for PFL to Promote these lads more cuz at the end of the day We're here to get Irish MMA Fighters and fans like more involved and then more energized about the scene. So uh Look if you say what's on our minds then sometimes things happen. You know yourself. Exactly. Exactly. So look Hopefully PFL pull something out and we we can get it over the line. Yeah. So that's actually that's going down in just Under 3 weeks time cuz it's going down on a Thursday, Ross. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah, so We'll keep you up to date on that. I'm sure there's going to be more fights announced, hopefully. So I want to also give a shoutout to Irish UFC star Shauna Bannon will be back in action on May 16th at Ross's favorite venue the UFC Apex, Ross. All the meta Apex. Meta Apex, sorry excuse me. Yeah, look Shauna Bannon always great to hear back. I feel like the it's been a while coming since we've seen Ma B in the cage. Looking forward to seeing her get back in there. Do her thing and look we'll probably try and get Shauna on the show before in the build up to the fight. I think uh She's the only only Irish female flying the flag in the UFC at the moment. So uh Let let's see her get in there get her job done let's see her start looking to get a number next to her name in that UFC rankings and make her way up the the pecking order in the strawweight division. Yeah, and also another viral finish as well. Another bonus would be all right as well. Yeah, 100k baby getting in there. Um just on other UFC news as well Over the weekend Israel Adesanya was defeated by Sean Brady. Ross going into this fight you thought Adesanya would win. And uh Joe Pyfer spoiled the party. Yeah, I thought Adesanya would have enough tools in the arsenal to get the job done. Uh there was moments within the sort of striking realms where Adesanya showed his class showed his speed, but at the end of the day it looked like the power of Joe Pyfer was too Much uh for Israel Adesanya. And at the end of the day Joe Pyfer is an up and comer. Adesanya said he's not done yet, but I don't know was he going to go out like an Anderson Silva and lose a number of fights on the way out? Who knows, but I don't I look at the middleweight division at the moment I think it looks really really competitive. I think there's plenty people for Joe Pyfer to fight next. I think you know Chael Sonnen uh Imavov seems to be someone who we could fight next. Also Brendan Allen is someone he could fight next. All these people are definitely available for him to him to go up against next. I don't know who Israel Adesanya does fight next. Obviously he could fight A number of those or of that ilk, but at the end of the day it's a bit of a stranger one. His Way out supersedes His his skill and his ranking at the moment. And I like I don't really like Writing people off per se, But um I can't see him getting back to the cream of the crop of the division. I can't see him retaining that middleweight belt which is a Sad to see really, but look it is what it is. And I think at the moment when you look at that division Reinier de Ridder I think is going up to light heavyweight. Robert Whittaker is going up to light heavyweight. Like Adesanya versus Cannonier doesn't really wouldn't really do much for me. Maybe Christian Leroy Duncan could be a fight next for him just because Leroy Duncan's on the rise at the moment. And at the end of the day you have to try and make superstars. Christian Leroy Duncan against Israel Adesanya? Yeah. Jeez. Well, he's the only he's the only sort of Younger [snorts] fighter on the rise at the moment. Yeah, who who's who's Who could deal with the win. And At the end of the day He has to fight someone, so why not fight someone who's who's on the up and up? Exactly. Joe You know they were Duncan just beat Dilano Danis 14 and two. Good record. Joe's been interesting the way >> [clears throat] >> There's been no update on Paddy McCarty Getting picked up by the UFC or the contender series as well after that after that win he got in Dublin. Like that would like I don't think Well Did it did it feel did did Paddy's win feel bigger or the same or Compared to >> [clears throat] >> Rhys McKee's in Cage Warriors Belfast? Probably very similar I think. I felt it was up there as well with when Paul Hughes won in Dublin. Um As well felt They all feel bigger than Ian Garry's cuz Ian Garry did it in an empty arena. Mhm. But yeah, I I thought Paddy McCarty's win felt very very big. Win over probably Equal caliber of opponents I suppose. Joe Duffy was someone who was one of the top welterweights at the time When Rhys McKee beat him and Balandi was probably top middleweight at the time when Paddy beat him. So Yeah, I think I hope Paddy does get does get that call sooner rather than later and I hope he's Not waiting around to be a last minute replacement cuz no one wants that. Yeah. We'll keep you up to date on that news as well. Then Ross I just have to we have to touch on the fact >> doing a Paddy McCarty in the PFL Belfast. I know that's that's what I was thinking, but isn't Graham Boylan his manager? He is, yeah. Yeah, so that's never going to happen. But no, they could definitely do a Paddy on the PFL Belfast. >> Graham Boylan is Rhys he's manager. Yeah. Yeah, but Rhys Paddy wants to Paddy wants to go to the UFC, so Like Rhys is Was released. Yeah. Whereas Paddy like that's his that's where he wants to go. Yeah. Um Ross we have before before we go on to this weekend's action Alexa Grasso defeated Macy Barber in the in round one by Like was it a knockout? Was it a submission? Was it a knockout submission? >> By everything. By everything. Like this is like no joke covering the sport for so long seeing a knockout like that was absolutely crazy. Especially the way the camera kept zooming up into her face and the doctor was trying to get her to come to. What did you make of [snorts] that? Yeah, it was probably Maybe the second most vicious knockout or third most vicious knockout finish In women's MMA history for me. Uh I feel when Holly Holm beat Ronda Rousey that felt like pretty spectacular and I think Was it Valentina Shevchenko? I think she she head kicked Jessica Eye one second and knocked her out. I felt like she looked like Jesus on the cross lying on the canvas by the time she was done with her. Uh but this one was something else cuz She was clearly knocked out with I'd say 40% consciousness next and then she was choked out And left with nothing left. And even the way she was like sort of pawing at the referee With her instincts to keep going was uh Yeah, it was a it was a bit of a scary scene, but Macy Barber came out today and said look she she's fine. She says It's not great looking at the internet uh and being on every single clip, but Yeah. Yeah, she says she's doing all right. Okay, well that's That's good to see cuz uh Yeah, that was that was scary looking. And then we also have to give a shoutout to Terrance McKinney. We were talking about him last week. He goes viral every fight. On this fight he got the victory in round one as well. So shoutout to Terrance McKinney. He actually says he's he gave up the drink and focused more On finding himself and finding God. So uh amen to Terrance McKinney. Then Ross this weekend before we tell you what Irish action is going down The UFC is back in the meta Apex. As Renato Moicano is taking on Chris Duncan. Ross This is a huge opportunity for Scotland's very own Chris Duncan. Yeah, look um is this his first main event or was his last fight main event as well? I feel like it could be his first main event. But Chris Duncan is look phenomenal athlete really really nice guy as well actually. Former guest of the Energized show. So always a a big fan in in that aspect, but I think you know Moicano is bringing the one thing that he must be looking for which is name recognition. And for me I think this is a very, very winnable fight. He's on a bit of a tear at the moment, Chris Duncan. He He was the person who uh submitted uh Terrance McKinney in his last fight. So, he made Terrance McKinney the highlight. But look, he's on a four-fight win streak and three of his last four wins are are by submission. And he is someone who is really, really on fire at the moment and I think he's going to get the job done. I can see him getting the submission win over Renato Moicano. I know Moicano's got a good few submissions of his own, but I feel like if he can sort of withstand the sort of onslaught at the start of the fight from Moicano, I feel like he tires out. Um I think Christian are Chris Duncan We're just talking about Christian Leroy Duncan. Chris Duncan will get the >> Duncan. Yeah. I think he's going to dunk on Moicano. Yeah, I for some reason I think this is Chris Duncan's time. Mhm. Moicano has fought for the title. Maybe he might like I'm not saying he's overlooking Chris Duncan, but it's sort of like could be like the new fresher guy that's coming up. That's just what I I can feel in the air. But you know yourself, Ross, 50% of the time we're always wrong. And 50% of the time we're always right. You know a pod. You know a pod. So, that goes down this weekend. Um let me just see if there's any other names that people should keep an eye out for. Uh Verna Jean De Roba is taking on Tabitha Tabitha Ricci in the co-main. That's um King Callum Walsh is going to a few title implications there there, I'd say. You know, win there and you'll be close enough to a title shot. Yeah. Yeah, the card's not looking too too interesting. >> matters is Chris Duncan's in the main event, man. >> That is all that matters, man. Like what like we should have started the show with this. We're going to start the show again. Uh right, so then for people tuning in right now, we have to give you the update of what's going down this weekend as uh Legacy Fight Night goes down on Friday night. Then also Nemesis events goes down on Sunday night. But Ross, this Saturday Irish MMA is back as Wrath CC returns. Yeah, absolutely. Wrath is back and we will see some belts up for grabs in the amateur lightweight division. We're going to start off with a four-man one-night night tournament. Nathan Mulligan, Taylor Heffernan, Dean O'Malley, and Bradley Legg will all fight it out to find out who was the best lightweight in Wrath. I'm really looking forward to that one. We also have Orshin Daly versus Tom Buckley for the featherweight strap. Orshin Daly out of Team Tarras and Tom Buckley, I think we tipped him as one of the ones to watch this year on the amateur scene. He is on absolute train roll at the moment and I can't wait to see him on that one. And then we have Max Mahaffy was supposed to fight for the flyweight belt. His opponent pulled out. Morgan Holmes is supposed to fight for the bantamweight belt. His opponent pulled out. They will now fight each other for the bantamweight belt. So, really, really good to see that one. Two guys stepping up, stepping in the opponents on short notice. Really, really looking forward to that. We also have a few females fighting on the card as well. Danielle Doble is fighting Sarah Carney. Laura French is fighting Caitlin Doone. And a few more on the card as well, but I don't know. Wrath has really shown up with the goods for Irish MMA this weekend. Can't wait to tune in and find out who gets their hand raised, who comes home with a few belts. Wrath, make sure to check it out. Yeah, and now it's going to be very, very interesting. Like that four-man tournament like I think more and more organizations are are like looking at doing these. So, tuning in this Saturday will be very interesting to see what happens. And um who they call out next. Yeah, absolutely. It's going to be very interesting to see who leaves with the belt and what sort of fights we can look at to be made next in the Irish scene. I think the Irish amateur scene is at such a high level at the moment and I think it's very, very interesting um to see who picks up the belts in organizations. And I I suppose the people who win the belts almost do the matchmaking for themselves. You know, you want to see whoever is the IUR champion fight the Verge champion, the Cage Conflict champion fight the Wrath champion. You want to see all these champions go in there and fight each other and see who is solidifying themselves as the best in each division in the country. Yeah, cuz remember like when we started doing this, some people didn't really care about the belts, but I think the belts are more are becoming more and more important. Yeah, well I think the belts show where you're at. I think if you can win two or three belts you're basically ready to turn pro. So, I think they sort of solidify you as one of the best amateurs in the country. And if you're one of the best amateurs in the country, well then it's time for you to make that jump to pro if that's what you desire to do. No, I agree. Uh then just other Irish MMA events that are happening in April and as we said, Wrath CC is going down on the this 4th of April. Then PFL Belfast goes down on the 16th of April. Uh Deck Card MMA goes down on the 19th. And there's a Chaos Grappling Championships goes down on the 19th and Rumble goes down on 25th and also Crank goes down 25th and 26th. So, there will be a lot of and more MMA content coming out from the Energize Show. As always, Ross, every week, man. Every week we try and deliver the best content of combat sports across the country. Uh some people say we do a good job. Other people say we do a great job. Yeah. Uh look, also we have to give a shout out to the Irish football team that unfortunately lost on penalties on Thursday night, Ross. We were out for it. Sit beside Robbie Keane as well, Ross. Uh sure look, we were rubbing shoulders with goats, you know what I mean? Some say he was rubbing shoulders with goats. Who knows? Uh but yeah, look, it was it was a great night of sports. It was a great night of football. Obviously, the result didn't go our way, but my god, there was some crack out on Thursday night. Yeah. Yeah, it was it was very disappointing way to get knocked out. But look, you can feel that the team are on the rise. So, uh stick behind the boys in green. You better believe it, bud. Yeah. Okay. So, if you are new to the Energize Show, make sure to like, make sure to share, make sure to subscribe. We are here every week. And as always, stay energized. The Energize Show. Up the Irish. It's the face that runs the place, Chaos Cartel. I want to thank the Irish MMA community so much for getting behind me. You up the Chaos Cartel.