James Thompson interview

Q.1 Why did you start training and did you have any goals of competing to begin with?

I started competing after I saw the UFC, I saw it and something clicked with me and I decided I wanted to try it.

Q.2 What is your current training schedule like? How does it differ between pre-fight and off season?

When I in a training camp, it’s 6 days a week mostly twice a day, but do listen to my body. When I’m not training for a fight it not as intense, but trying to improve techniques and keep my base fitness up.

Q.3 How much cardio work do you do?

I do a 2 mile run, twice a week and jog in the morning 4 times a week between 3 and 5 miles.

Q.4 How long have you been competing?

I have been fighting pro for 7 yrs now.

Q.5 What are your main competitive achievements?

I fought in the most watch MMA fight ever on US television against Kimbo Slice, I’ve fought in all the big Japanese organisations, and won the UC heavyweight title.

Q.6 Who are your main sources of inspiration in your training and which fighters do you most admire.

I just remember when I’m tired and can’t be arsed, how lucky I am to be doing something I enjoy for a living, and that hard work does pay off. I admire Sean Sherk he has a great work ethic and Randy Couture, he’s a legend

Q.7 What are your current competitive goals?

I have a few fights lined up this year and want to win them all! I live for MMA and want to be the best I can be..

Q.8 Have you been effected by injuries much over the years?

Touch wood, I’ve been really lucky and nothing major.

Q.9 What supplements do you use?

I use protein (Extreme Pro-6) and recovery drink after training and between meals (Build & Recover), also the Kr-Evolution creatine, before and after training as well as amino acids and multi vitamins.

Q.10 How much do you feel supplements and sports nutrition help your training?

A lot when you’re breaking your body down you need as much help as possible, have good quality supplements make me feel confident, I’m getting the best out of myself and my training.

Q.11 What is it that motivates you through a hard session?

The fact nothing comes easy, and what you put in you get out, is so true.

Q.12 Do you think you could take Dougie Black of Extreme Nutrition?

We all have to have hopes and dreams I’m not there yet, but made be one day.

I’d like to say thanks to a few people, my training team at London Shootfighters and Extreme Nutrition for having my back, and no problem big or small being too much trouble.