MMABay’s EXCLUSIVE BAMMA 8 interview with Andre Winner
Resurgent lightweight striking machine Andre Winner steps back into the cage this Saturday on his home turf of Nottingham, England. Prior to his BAMMA 8 bout with all-action Swede Diego Gonzalez, the Rough House project spoke to MMABay’s Brad Wharton about getting back to his winning ways, his game plan for Saturday night and his focus for 2012.
MMABay – Hi Andre, and thanks for taking time out to answer a few questions for MMABay!
Winner – Not a problem guys!
MMABay -When I interviewed you immediately after your victory at BAMMA 7, you seemed incredibly relieved to get the ‘W’ under your belt; does it feel good going into this fight with a bit of momentum on your side?
Winner – It does feel good to be back to winning ways but I get more motivated when I have lost as I feel I have something to prove which often makes me fight better. I’m still very motivated and focused from my last loss!
MMABay -You’re fighting Diego Gonzalez; have you had the chance to see much tape on Diego, and how do you feel you match up with him in the cage?
Winner – Yes I have watched some tape on Diego, he’s a tough dangerous fighter but I’m focused and I have set goals that I’m going to achieve and beating Diego is one of them.
MMABay -Last time out we saw a change from the norm with a couple of takedowns from you. Do you have any more new tricks to pull out of the bag this time, or are we going to be seeing some ‘vintage’ Andre Winner?
Winner – It’s going to be a combination of both I feel. I will have a few new tricks but you will also see some vintage Andre Winner.
MMABay -Diego has tangled with your old pal Dan Hardy a couple of times; have you had chance to exchange notes with Dan on this fight, or do you feel that it was too long ago to be relevant?
Winner – I was there when Dan fought Diego the second time. It is relevant, obviously he’s improved but he is still the same, which is a tough, solid puncher with a dangerous ground game.
MMABay -When I interviewed Diego this week, he seemed unconcerned at the prospect of fighting you in what amounts to your own back yard. Do you think he might be in for a shock when he hears the Nottingham crowd?
Winner – I would not expect him to be bothered where he is fighting as it doesn’t really mean anything one the fight gets going. Plus, he’s well experienced; I’m sure he’s been through this experience before.
MMABay -This fight has been officially dubbed a title eliminator. Is that something that adds to your motivation as you prepare for the fight?
Winner – Truthfully it does not add any more motivation as I’m very motivated already. I will be motivated to keep the belt instead of just trying to get it or a shot at it.
MMABay -Obviously you won’t be looking past Diego, but with 2011 drawing to a close, do you have any early New Year’s resolutions or ambitions for 2012?
Winner – I just want to stay busy, expand my game, travel and train some more, keep fighting and stack some doe!
MMABay -Finally, for anyone who is in two minds as to whether to buy a ticket or tune in for the live broadcast, what can they expect in particular from your fight with Diego Gonzalez?
Winner – I would say get yourself a ticket to see world class fighters and support home talent! I can’t speak for anyone else’s fight but I’m going to look for a finish!
MMABay -Do you have any sponsors you’d like to thank, or people you’d like to mention?
Winner – I would like to thank Maximuscle, Fearless Fightwear, Booster, Cherry active, Meesha Group, impact LPA, BAMMA, my fam, the fans, Chris Pyatt, Victor Estima, Paul Barton, Michael Winner and all of my team mates!
MMABay -Thanks Andre, and good luck on the 10th!
Winner – Thank you guys!
By Brad Wharton, Follow me on Twitter @MMABayBrad
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