Sam “Smilin” Alvey 33-17-1 is an American professional Mixed Martial Artist currently competing in the Light-heavyweight division. He has competed for King of the Cage, Madtown Throwdown, Combat USA, North American Fighting Championship, Caribbean Ultimate Fist Fighting, Bellator MMA, Industry of Combat New Zealand, Wreck MMA, Maximum Fighting Championship and UFC.
I’d like to start this off by thanking you for taking the time to speak to me today Sam. I hope training has been going well.
The last we saw you in action was back in February at UFC Fight Night: Hermansson vs. Strickland. Taking on Brendan Allen. Despite a valiant effort throughout the 1st and 2nd, the night was not yours. Looking back on that meeting with Brandon, what did you take from that night at the UFC Apex?
“My fight against Allen was on about three days’ notice and I guess I’m too old for that kind of stuff now. He was a stud that night and punched me right in the face. I’d love to have a do-over but there are no do-overs in this sport. unless you’re McGregor.”
In recent news, it has been confirmed that Dana White shall let you see out your contract with his organisation despite recent fight results. A fighter’s life is not all about victory in my mind. It’s the thrill of doing what you love to do and there is not a finer example of this than yourself. If your next announcement should be your last for the UFC, is there a specific name lit there you’d like to be matched against?
“Honestly, no. I’ve had some of the best fights in my life fighting people I never heard of. Whoever I fight next I promise to have the best showing of my career.”
Fight fans have had the pleasure of witnessing you in action in the UFC over an octad of years. Having one of the biggest fight records within the organisation as well as taking on some of the biggest names to enter the Octagon. Throughout your career and the many bouts, you have been a part of, what bout will forever stand out in your mind?
“My fight with Rashad Evans will always have a special place in my heart because he is a Hall of Fame and ex-world champion. But my fight against Nate Marquart will always be one of my favourites. He was my coach at the Ultimate Fighter and I’m one of the rare fighters that got to fight his coach.”
Speaking of stand-out bouts, there was a vast array of them when the UFC returned to London. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such excitement for the return across the Atlantic for the warriors of the UFC this past weekend. What do you make of some of the latest additions to the roster?
“Everybody’s talking about Paddy “The Baddy”. He’s a ton of fun to watch and looks like he has a lot of talent too. Like everyone else I’ll tune in every time he fights.”
Going back to your next step in the Octagon, will this be the last fans get to see you take the walk to the proverbial Lion’s den, or will fans get the chance to catch you in action for possibly another organisation?
“I have no intention of retiring anytime soon.”
Last but not least do you have a message for your ever-growing fan base and anybody you’d like to give a shout-out to?
“Without my fans, I wouldn’t have a job. Not only would I have been cut I would never have had a paycheck so thank you all. I try to give back to you as best I can, particularly through social media. I’m very active in answering questions and I even dole out many autographs to anyone that asks.”
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