Erik Polak 1-2-0 is a Slovak professional Mixed Martial Artist currently competing in the Flyweight division, representing Fighters Hive. He has competed for Slovenský Zväz MMA and On Top Promotions.
I’d like to kick things off by thanking you for taking the time to speak to me today Erik, and also to congratulate you on your upcoming inclusion to the On Top 24 card.
“Hey! Thanks for having me here.”
I hope training has been going well in the build-up to your scheduled return to the cage?
“Training has been going great, I started preparing at the beginning of July when I went for a “holiday” to Slovakia (where I’m originally from). Used this holiday as a training camp, been training multiple times a day working mostly on my strength & conditioning and Grappling & Wrestling. Back to my gym Fighters Hive now, working hard on all aspects of my game.”
This being your 2nd trip to the On Top cage, how does it feel to once again take the walk to the lion’s den with the iconic Scottish promotion?
“Can’t wait for it! The atmosphere on this show was unreal, also great fighter’s care and venue. My last MMA fight was before lockdown so it’s more than 2 years now. Been a while, I’m a totally different fighter and I can’t wait to prove it!”
Last we saw you in action was back in 2020 at On Top 23, despite a valiant effort through each and every round the night wasn’t yours. What did you take away from that all out brawl with Max Harding?
“All I’ve learnt from that fight is that I can’t leave it in the hands of judges, coming for the finish this time! Improved in both striking and grappling since then, so I’m ready for anything. It was a very good fight though with a talented opponent, I’m sure the crowd enjoyed it.”
Known for your Grappling prowess, and inclusion to many grappling competitions, there is no doubt in my mind we will be witnessing a different warrior in Linwood. For the readers, could you elaborate on what you have been up to since your inclusion at On Top 23?
“I’ve been training both Thai Boxing and BJJ all the time but competing only in BJJ. Last year was quite busy for me, I’ve fought in London, Manchester 2x, Leeds, Belfast, Scotland 3x, been in training camps in Brighton’s Elements Jiu jitsu and in Slovakia. Collected couple golds, silvers & bronzes. In NoGi I was also competing in Elite divisions (purple, brown, black belt) so it was a great experience and I got a couple of medals there as well. Since the beginning of this year I’ve been trying to get MMA fights, been matched 3 times but all of them were cancelled. Hopefully this one will work out!”
We are now two weeks out from what is set to be a night of pure unadulterated organised violence at the On-X leisure centre. Your return see’s you take on Greg Breckenridge of Force Fitness, what do you make of Greg in the build-up to your scheduled meeting?
“To be honest, I don’t really know much about my opponent. I’m focused on myself and I’m confident in every aspect of my game. Got the best team behind me, they help me everyday so I need to get that finish for them.”
On Top has been sorely missed these past two years, the team have worked fingers to the bone to make sure their return is one the fans will not soon forget, other than your inclusion on the night are there any matchups in particular that you’re looking forward to witnessing?
“I’m sure every single fight on this card will be a proper war, can’t find a better MMA show in Scotland. Looking forward to seeing the title fights, match-ups look pretty good.”
It’s been an absolute pleasure speaking with you Erik and I look forward to witnessing you out there.
“Thanks again, hopefully we’ll speak more often, now when the lockdowns are over I’m planning to be very active.”
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?
“My message for fans is to better not miss this show, it’s a great night out for you with stacked card full of exciting fights. Shout out to my team Fighters Hive, thanks for everything you are doing for me I’m bringing that W home for you all!”
Tickets are still available from the fighters for what’s set to be a night of pure unadulterated organised violence in Linwood. Also available from the On Top Facebook page.
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