Chris Morris 7-1-0 is an English amateur Mixed Martial Artist currently competing in the Welterweight Division, representing Reps MMA. An amateur competitor since 2018. He has competed for ICE FC, Celtic Gladiator And Preston based organisation UKFC.
I’d like to start this off by thanking you for taking the time to speak to me again Chris. And also to congratulate you on your recent fight announcement for the UKFC18 card.
I hope training camp has been going in the build-up to your anticipated return to the cage?
“Thank you Aaron, always a pleasure. Training camp has been a long and hard process, but I wouldn’t want it any other way, to be honest. I am right at the last hurdle now and just have to make the weight on Friday then I can get to the fun part!”
Last we spoke was before your phenomenal victory at UKFC17. Capturing Light-Welterweight gold and taking another step of your very impressive amateur record. Your bout with Bert Jenkins was a year in the making, and the fans were not disappointed. Now the proverbial dust has settled and you’ve had time to reflect on your bout, what did you take from that KO/TKO victory back in November?
“My last fight has taught me a lot about myself and given me a lot more confidence, especially comparing it to how most people start at the bottom of fight cards. seeing as the more experienced and better I get is reflected through my progression in the card, getting closer to becoming the headliner. It’s great to see the progression in myself in the way I handle the new areas of pressure, whether that be backstage or in the cage.”
Your training camp seemed to be in doubt for UKFC18 when your original opponent Danny Naismith, unfortunately, had to stand down from your scheduled bout at the Riva Showbar in Preston. What was going through your mind at the time when hearing the news?
“Well, I was only told that he pulled out at the time I was informed that I had a new opponent. I was gutted, however, since I had been preparing for a southpaw and Danny’s style, but this is the fight game and injuries are inevitably going to happen.”
A great promotion always does its best for its fighters. With quick work by the UKFC, your camp wasn’t in doubt as Academia Unlimited’s Ze Machado stepped in on short notice. With camp almost over and a new opponent arrives. Have you managed to get a chance to study Ze at all?
“I haven’t really studied him, I’ve only watched one fight of his and that’s it.”
Another year and another title opportunity for yourself as you look to become an amateur European Light-Welterweight champion and yet again prove to the fans that you truly are the king of your division at UKFC. It must be a tremendous honour to be able to get the chance to bring more gold back to your dedicated team at Reps MMA?
“Most definitely, any chance to represent the gyms I’m working with, and to be able to contribute to their growth is always going to be an honour. especially bringing home the belts!”
Another title win could see you take a closer step towards your enviable professional career. Has the thought crossed your mind of late to test your skills on the Pro circuit?
“One day, definitely. However, I have goals and a plan of how I am going to end my amateur career. I won’t go into detail, but once my ambitions are completed, I’ll then make the move.”
Many of your teammates will be sent out to war to the iconic Union Jack cage on March 12th. As well as new teammates who have collaborated with Reps this year from Combat Performance. Other than your inclusion on the night are there any match-ups in particular that you’re looking forward to witnessing?
“There has been some opponent changes and all my teammates have their challenges to overcome but I believe Dan Holt vs Zach Fry, will be a great fight to watch. Credit to Dan, who took the fight on, at short notice.”
Last but not least do you have a message for the fans that will be in attendance and anybody you’d like to give a shout-out to?
“Most certainly, firstly, I would love to take this opportunity to thank everyone who is coming out to support me and bought a ticket from me. I really do appreciate it. I am truly thankful! Secondly, I would like to thank my coaches from Reps MMA, Higher Level MMA and Combat Performance!
Lastly, a massive shout out to all my sponsors.”
“Rowlec Limited
Turners Martial Arts
Gap Landscapes
Tech 2 Limited
Liveseys Butchers
Jc Martial Arts
MH Training Systems
Archie Hull.”
“I would not be able to commit to my ambitions and dreams if I didn’t have their support!!”
Subscribe
