Nigerian-American UFC Middleweight fighter Oluwale Bamgbose will be in action this weekend at UFC 212 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and KweséESPN caught up with him ahead of his clash with Paulo Borrachina.
Bronx-born Bamgbose's background is Karate and Taekwondo, and he was signed to UFC in 2015. His debut fight was a first round TKO at the hands of Uriah Hall, but overall The Holy War Angel has a six to two win-loss professional record.
KweséESPN: What made you decide to get into Mixed Martial Arts?
Bamgbose: I decided to get into MMA because it was a decision God helped me make. It was something I was always good at and when I was at my lowest God stepped in and told me to fight and reflect his army. This is how the name Holy War Angel was developed. It's a name that holds me accountable for God's work.
KweséESPN: How did you end up signing with the UFC?
Bamgbose: I was signed after amassing a 5-0 record at a renowned promotion [Ring of Combat] on the East Coast that several UFC fighters today fought at prior to their UFC careers. So I knew I had to flourish there before making it to the UFC.
KweséESPN: What are your thoughts on your opponent [Brazilian Borrachinha] and your upcoming fight at UFC 212 in Rio De Janeiro?
Bamgbose: He is tough but so am I. I was trained by a Brazilian in Luiz Azeredo, who is the only Brazilian to beat [legendary former Middleweight champion] Anderson Silva. I'm also his black prajied [Muay Thai ranking] in Chute Boxe Muay Thai, which is a renowned MMA lineage that has developed some of the best fighters in the world. So I know how Brazilians fight and, overall, think in combat. So patience, timing, and explosiveness are keys to my victory over Paulo. He will get the best me.
KweséESPN: Do you feel Africa is, or can be, a good source for future UFC fighters? What needs to be done to reach and develop prospective MMA fighters on the continent?
Bamgbose: Simply put? Investing. I bought land in Nigeria for this very purpose, to build an MMA empire for my country and countrymen. Solid instructors or coaches are needed for this to work. Luckily I currently hold four black belts, in Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jujitsu. Not to mention I fight for the greatest organization in combat sports, the UFC. So I am the ideal coach, manager, or person for this project in Nigeria.
KweséESPN: In the past you've mentioned plans to build recreational centers in Africa. What are your future goals and plans with regard to the recreation center idea?
Bamgbose: To build a chain of recreational centers and gyms all over Africa, starting with Nigeria. I have a Masters degree so I plan on using my administration and structural expertise to design this chain of facilities. God is great and has given me purpose: To spread his love, community, and the sport of MMA.