EXCLUSIVE MMABay interview with Ryan Healy ahead of his Super Fight League 2 showdown with Paul Kelly
MMABay sat down with American mixed martial artist, Ryan Healy this week for an EXCLUSIVE ahead of his Super Fight League 2 showdown with former UFC fighter, Paul Kelly set for April 7th in Chandigarh, India. We asked him how he plans on handling the plucky Brit, his hopes for the future and of course that now famous SFL theme tune. Check out what he has to say on the other side.
Hi Ryan,
Thank you for taking the time to sit down with MMABay.co.uk and answer a few of our questions.
Healy – Anytime.
MMABay – You were last seen in action on the Score Fighting Series 4 event where you unfortunately for you lost a unanimous decision to Josh Alessio. What can you take from that fight moving forward in 2012?
Healy – I made just a couple of small mistakes in that fight which cost me the decision and it makes me realize how important each second of the fight is. If you let your guard down for a few moments that can cost you the fight.
MMABay – It was recently announced that you will be stepping in for the Gabe Ruediger, who is not medically cleared, on the Super Fight League 2 card set for April 7th. How did the Indian mixed martial arts promotion get in touch with you and what are your first impressions of their set-up?
Healy – I was scheduled to fight Paul Kelly last year but he had visa issues getting into the US. When I saw Ruediger was medically suspended I knew that me fighting Kelly made sense and SFL was soon in contact with my management. It is an exciting opportunity to be fighting in India and for a world class promotion.
MMABay – Before we ask you about your fight on April 7th can I quickly ask you did you get to see Super Fight League 1 earlier this month, and if you did what did you think to it overall and are you looking forward to walking out to their awesome theme tune?
Healy – I watched SFL 1 and was impressed with everything about the promotion. SFL is establishing itself as a world class event with the talent level they are bringing in. I like a good tune and will be happy to represent the SFL music!
MMABay – You’ll be taking on former UFC veteran, Paul Kelly Chandigarh, India, a fighter that is known for his scrappiness inside the cage. What are your thoughts on the man dubbed “Tellies” as an opponent?
Healy – Kelly is a fighter that will bring it no matter where the fight takes place. He is well rounded and will not give an inch. I am looking forward to testing my skills against a UFC veteran.
MMABay – Kelly hasn’t competed in over a year since he dropped a second round submission to former three-time WEC title contender, Donald Cerrone back at UFC 126 in February 2011. Do you think this time away will adversely affect him on the night unlike you who fought less than a month ago and four times during that same period?
Healy – Having such a long absence from the cage cannot help you get better. I am sure that Kelly has been putting in work in the gym but nothing can replace actual ring time. His long time away from the cage is something that I will be sure to take advantage of immediately
MMABay – You train out of the Team Quest camp alongside such great wrestlers as Dan Henderson and Chael Sonnen. Is it safe to assume your biggest advantage will be your grappling against Kelly who was undone by someone like Jacob Volkmann in the past?
Healy – I definitely will use my wrestling to my advantage and the skills I have gained at Team Quest. I am lucky to train at a world class gym that always keeps me progressing and growing as a fighter.
MMABay – Despite being only 28-years-old you already have 29 bouts under your belt with the fight against Kelly making a round 30. What are your long-term career goals in what’s turning out to be a very interesting time to be a mixed martial arts fighter?
Healy – My ultimate goal is to become a world champion. I am in this business to be the best in the world and every day I am closer and work hard to achieve my goal.
MMABay – Just in case some of our readers haven’t seen you fight before can you sum up in a few words what they can expect to see out of you come April 7th inside the cage?
Healy – My style is aggressive and entertaining. Expect to see someone who will not let his opponent make a boring or slow paced fight.
MMABay – Thanks for taking the time to speak to MMABay.co.uk.
Healy – Thank you and thanks to my sponsors Haymaker Fight Gear, Dirty Boxer and Oregon Grown Designs
(An exclusive interview for MMABay.co.uk)
By Michael Pepper. (Follow me on Twitter)
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