Interview with Irish prospect Joe Clarke
Joe Clarke is one of the hottest prospects from Ireland and is fighting against Alan Philpott for his ISKA MMA Northern Irish Featherweight title on the main card of Clan Wars 10 on the 14th April at the Ulster Hall Belfast
Hi Joe, Thanks for taking the time off to answer the questions for us today.
Can you first off start to tell us a bit about yourself?
I grew up in a tough neighbourhood, was always into sports so didn’t quite fit in with the ‘cool’ crowd so often got bullied as a kid. Found out punching the bully’s made them stop. Sort of liked fighting in a weird way was I would respect somebody who wanted to fight for fun or money. Joined PCCB now F.A.I and started to actually train to fight. MMA is the top combat sport and is a lot of fun as well. So to get paid to do it is icing on the cake. I like cake.
You have been successfully bull dozing your way through the Irish MMA circuit – can you tell us how you finished those fights and what would you say is your strongest attributes?
I’ve had all together 13 wins (10 ama and 3 pro) all ending in the first round. I’ve submitted the grapplers and KO’d the boxers/strikers. My strongest attribute isn’t a technical aspect, I’m a fast, surprising fighter and will try to end the fight in ANY way possible. I’m not a striker, wrestler or grappler. I’m a hybrid. Ill finish the fight where ever it goes. Nobody has seen my full potential yet.
You are probably heading into one of your biggest fights to date for the Northern Irish ISKA Title against Alan Philpott on the 14th of April at the Ulster Hall for Clan Wars 10, how are you feeling about this fight with Alan?
I’m feeling that if I train like I need to I will win this fight. I am training in all areas and with the best coaches. I’m sharpening my elbows and kicking down trees, tossing cows and throwing rocks, tying guys in knots and choking out rhinos. Pick your poison.
The ISKA have a series of world recognised titles and getting your foot in the door opens up a lot of new opportunities for the champions, can you tell us your thoughts about getting a title shot for an ISKA title in front of your home crowd and also knowing your skills will be aired to millions of homes across the globe through the Clan Wars show?
This will be my first pro title that will always mean something to me, even when I have a UFC title. I’m sure the fans will like me for giving them a good show. Alan is a tough son of a bitch. Its weird writing son of a bitch, I mean no offence to Alan’s mum. He is game as a badger and if I leave an opening or opportunity he will have no problem punching me in the face. This will be a good fight!
Is there anybody else you would like to give a mention out to?
I’d like to thank all the coaches at F.A.I and also give a shout out to ST John Bosco ABC.
19 March 2012
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