Malone: 'Experience Is Key'
February-14-12
We talk to Kieran Malone about his opponent at On Top 4 on February 25th, Danny Henry.
Author: David Bateman
Interview
Kieran ‘The Hater’ Malone fights Danny Henry at On Top 4 on February 25th at the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, Scotland.
We spoke to 2-5 Malone about how the fight with 1-0 Henry will go, and the high quality opposition he has faced.
Your MMA: 2011 wasn't the best year for you, what are you doing differently in 2012?
“I’ve totally revamped everything, from lifestyle to training to the people looking after me. It’ll be a different ball game in 2012, but the proof will be in the results!”
Your MMA: You fight Danny Henry at OT 4. His only professional fight was a victory over your teammate Danny Gray, what did you learn about Henry in that fight? What are his main weaknesses?
“I wouldn't say Danny has any real weaknesses. He is a very good fighter in every facet of the game. I’d say his stand up is his main strength, but his ground game is decent too, so I’m not expecting an easy night.”
Your MMA: You've got a lot more experience than Danny on much bigger shows. This will be the biggest attendance he's fought in front of by a long way. How much of an advantage will that be?
“Experience is key! No disrespect to Danny but he is by no means my hardest opponent yet. But that is more a testament to the level of guys I have been in with. I think it's a step up for him in level, so it could be a factor for sure.”
Your MMA: Wrestling is obviously your main strength. Will you be using it offensively to put Danny on his back, or defensively to keep the fight standing?
“I am prepared to go anywhere. Obviously I have taken down every opponent I have ever fought, so Danny at some point will be on his back and it will be interesting to see how he reacts. But I am by no means scared to strike with him. It's MMA, not a wrestling match.”
Your MMA: Logic suggests you'll take Danny to the floor at some stage in the fight. Henry looked pretty capable off his back against Gray, do you think he could submit you from his back?
“Anything can happen but I would be surprised if he could sub me off his back!”
Your MMA: Danny trains out of Headhunters, whereas you're obviously a Ninja. How much of an advantage do you think that gives you?
“Obviously it’s a big advantage, even just look at the guys I am training with compared to his teams artillery, but I am sure he has had a good camp and I will be facing the best Danny Henry we have seen.”
Your MMA: Against Scottish opponents (Adam Stevenson in particular), you seem a lot more confident than when fighting against top guys from down south, and that appears to make a big difference to your performance. Is that a fair comment?
“To be honest, some of the tough opposition I have fought have been pretty awesome. No disrespect to the Scottish lightweights, but they are not on that level, so it’s more about the level of competition I am fighting rather than a confidence thing.”
Your MMA: Do you think people are looking at your record and underestimating your skills?
“People can underestimate and think what they want, but we will see at On Top, and my skills can be judged on my performance.”
Your MMA: After Danny you are scheduled to fight Kyle Cassidy at Art of Combat and then Phil Flynn at SFC. What are your thoughts on their abilities?
“I’m not prepared to discuss any of my future bouts, my full concentration is on Danny Henry and getting the win.”
Your MMA: Danny says he will beat you because his ‘will to win’ is greater. What do you make of that comment?
“I’ve put in the work, so all will be revealed on the night who has the greater will to win. That is why we fight!”
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Check out this interview with Kieran's opponent, Danny Henry.
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