We speak to 1-0 Danny Henry ahead of his next bout against 2-5 Kieran 'The Hater' Malone at On Top 4 on February 25^th in Glasgow, Scotland.

Your MMA: How has your preparation been?

“My preparation has been slightly hampered with the loss of my grandfather. I'm back on track now and will dedicate this win to him.” 

Your MMA: Malone is known as a strong wrestler. How do you plan to combat this?

“I wouldn't say I have a plan as such to combat Kieran’s wrestling, I’m not a great believer in game plans. However, I have been working my takedown defense, reversals and scrambling to stay off my back.”

Your MMA: Do you think you'll be able to keep it standing, or are you preparing for fighting off your back for parts of the fight?

“I think striking is Kieran's weakest area so I would prefer to keep it standing, however it’s not the be-all-and-end-all if Kieran does take me down. I'm preparing to fight off my back, so if it goes to the deck I'm more than prepared.”

Your MMA: Will you have an advantage striking with Malone?

“Yes I definitely think I have the edge in striking. I think my striking is on par with my ground game, I just haven't been able to showcase it so far." 

Your MMA: What do you make of Malone's record?

“I think Kieran's record is misleading, he's made some poor decisions in his career but I'm not going to let his negative record become a factor in this fight.

“Kieran has lost to some very tough opponents, however on the domestic scene he has fought two good guys and beaten them both. I am not going to underestimate him, but I’m not going to show him too much respect either.”

Your MMA: He's had a few more pro fights than you on big shows, will that make a difference at all?

“I don't know to be honest. I suppose he has more experience but it doesn't really concern me. My will to win is greater than his.”

Your MMA: Around 1200-1500 are expected at the event, does that put any pressure on you?

“On Top is the biggest show I have fought on to date, so yes it does bring about some pressure. The nerves usually disappear as soon as I get in the cage though, so hopefully I can stay focused and do the business.”

Your MMA: Malone is a Ninja, whereas you train at Headhunters in Edinburgh. Are you looking to show Kieran and others that there are more teams other than the Dinky Ninjas producing great fighters in Scotland?

“One hundred percent. The Ninja's have a great set up and have dominated the Scottish MMA scene for quite some time. It would be nice to show the rest of Scotland that anyone can compete with the Ninja's if they put their mind to it. I also relish the chance to test my skills against the best, that's what it's all about after all."

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Tickets for On Top 4 on February 25 at the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, Scotland are available via http://www.ontoppromotions.co.uk

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Check out this interview with Henry's opponent Kieran Malone.

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