MMA Source UK caught up with the Head Hunter, Nick Chapman

MMA Source UK were lucky enough to catch up with Nick "Headhunter" Chapman and throw a few questions his way regarding his training, business ventures and his upcoming Light Heavyweight Title bout Vs Linton Vassell on August 18th.

Check out what Nick had to say and don't forget to grab your tickets as this fight is one you definitely don't wanna miss!"

To begin Nick, can you tell us a little about your background and how you got into mixed martial arts?

I was born angry and aggressive and naturally veered towards MMA, it’s the only thing that keeps the beast inside of me locked away. I have been fighting all my life, through various martial arts and regrettably as a young lad street fighting as well. I am glad to say that is behind me now though.

As many people will know you run your own gym/martial arts centre - Fight Science. Can you tell us a bit about the gym and how this venture came about?

I have 2 passions, one fighting and the other learning about the science of sports and performance. It was at University when I decided to set up Fight Science, I wanted to combine my 2 passions and create the best facility for martial arts and strength and conditioning in the country.

How do you find juggling the responsibilities that come with running your own gym and focusing on your own training camp when you have a fight coming up?

Its very difficult, but fortunately I have an amazing team at Fight Science they all chip in and go above and beyond to take some of the strain leading up to fights. People like Kevin Stokes, Paul Dash, Jay Dods, Dom Clarke, Sol Raja, Sam Tait and Levi, are all simply awesome and not only put up with my mood swings they take care of everything they can and really help out a lot.

While we are on that note, what’s a typical week for you, training wise?

I train through a periodised plan which changes through the various phases. I generally train twice a day, 6 days a week, morning and afternoon.  I train BJJ, Wrestling, K1, Muay Thai, S and C, Boxing, Pads, MMA sparring and I see a physio every week and a sports psych often as well.

Next up is Linton Vassell for the UCMMA Light Heavyweight Title. He's on a four fight streak and, along with yourself, is widely touted as one of the top light heavyweights in the UK. What are your thoughts on Linton? And in what areas do you feel you may have the edge over him come fight night?

I have no dislike for Linton, in fact he seems like a decent enough guy. He is ranked higher than me which makes me want to fight him even more. I am always looking for a test and don’t like easy fights. I am expecting a war with him and very much looking forward to our clash. I am not going to give away any info, sorry, but I will say this, I will not stop punching this dude until I have that belt.

With that in mind, are there any areas of your game that you have been working on specifically during the build up to this bout?

I always work on my game in every area. I like to step out of my comfort zones and train the areas I feel weakest in. I feel very rounded going into this fight, I have improved a lot and feel more than ready for this fight.

How do you see this fight panning out & can you give us your predicted outcome?

HeadHunter crowned new UCMMA LH Champ that’s all I know

Are there any up and coming fighters that you've come across, be it in your gym or anywhere on the UK circuit, that you feel could be the ones to watch in the future?

We have a few coming through the ranks at Fight Science that you want to watch out for. Jay Prodigy Dods and Dom Clarke are 2 hopefuls.

Mixed Martial Arts In The UK is as prominent as it has ever been, especially with so many UK fighters moving onto the UFC and making names for themselves. What do you think it will take to push UK MMA to the next level? And do you think it will ever be possible to get anywhere near the level of exposure as say football, rugby or even boxing?

We need to keep pushing the boundries and working hard on wrestling and conditioning. Scientific Research into the various physical demands of MMA will also be a massive help in developing our athletes. I do believe that MMA will be as huge as Boxing one day, and if im honest I feel it will surpass it as well. That’s not to take any credit away from Boxing it is a great sport, I just feel its time for something new.

Nick, it’s no secret you’re a fan favorite on the UKMMA scene and a great role model for young fighters. What advice would you give to the young guys & girls out there that are looking to make their first steps into MMA?

If you’re serious about the sport and want to advance as much as you can then work your arse off, NEVER settle for second best, find the very best coaching you can and that might mean sacrifice and traveling far and above all NEVER give up and drop the ego.

Time to finish off with a few quick fire questions.

Favourite Fighter? The HeadHunter

Dream match up of fighters past and present? Nick HeadHunter vs Jimi Manuwa Re-match ha ha

Biggest Influence? Royce Gracie and Tank Abbott

Fav Martial arts movie star & Movie? ROCKY

Anyone or anything you'd like to thank, mention or plug? :-)

I would like to thank

John Simpson of www.completekravmaga.co.uk

Mathew Oldham of www.securityconceptsuk.com and www.parafituk.com

Rashid of www.no1protein.co.uk

Allan Barrett of www.grenadefatburner.com

Clive Charles for his support and backing

And of course all the team at Fight Science Gym

Thanks for your time Nick, its much appreciated. And all the best for your upcoming bout. :-)

Ollie Hill - MMA Source UK