EFC 57 is upon us, taking place on Saturday 4th march, with one of the most anticipated fights being the Heavyweight battle between Michael Vermeulen and Elvis Moyo. Both MMA warriors are at the top of their game and looking for the title shot. We caught up with Michael to get his thoughts on the fight, preparation and more.
Full name: Michael Vermeulen
Nickname: Tank
Age: 36
Hometown: Weltevreden Park, Johannesburg
Years fighting: 4 years
Fight record: 4W – 1L
Sponsors: Dragon Energy Drink, RDX Fight Equipment and Help 24
Give us some background into your MMA career and how you got started?
I’ve always been involved in some kind of contact sport, MMA was the next challenge.
What goes through your mind when you step into the hexagon?
I’m quite calm, because I know when I walk in there I have put in the hard work and I’m prepared for whatever comes my way.
What are you looking forward to most come March 4th?
I have to get this win to get my shot at the title. The time has come and I will seize the opportunity.
How has preparation gone for this fight?
Lots and lots of fitness and running.
Have you changed anything up in your training and preparation in order to face Elvis Moyo?
Yes. Every fight is a different game plan and approach to the different fighting skills of the opponent.
What do think your opponent’s strong points are?
Elvis has just come off a title shot, and we have seen that he can go the distance.
And his weak points?
He is a stationary boxer, very flat footed and that is what I will expose.
How can fight fans expect you to come into this fight?
My fans can expect an exciting fight and I will give it all I have.
And words for Elvis before fight night?
I don’t believe in smack talk before a fight, it will come back and bite you in the ass. I do the talking on the night in the cage.
Any shout outs?
I would like to say thank you to all my family, friends, fans, and sponsors, and especially to my coaches and teammates at Mayhem RDX and The Tribe gyms.