At EFC AFRICA 11, Ruan Potts became the first heavyweight champion to successfully defend an EFC AFRICA title. Even with a broken hand, the champ appeared absolutely dominant. He’s now 14-0 and planning to enjoy the festive season break before jumping back into hard training in 2012.
How was the fight with Andrew? You seemed to put him away without too much trouble, did you expect more from him?
The fight didn’t last very long standing and went to ground prematurely for I suspect both of us. I capitalised on this as I had worked very hard on a game plan on the ground and pretty much it all came together as planned. I did seem to finish pretty easy but take nothing away from Andrew, he was a worthy opponent.
Were you satisfied with your performance and the way the fight went?
Under the circumstances (me breaking my hand), I was very satisfied with my performance all went according to plan on the ground. I broke my hand with the first punch of the fight, shattering the bones. I threw 3 punches after that which only did more damage, and hence had to use my ground game to my advantage.
How serious is your injury and what does it mean for training?
I have had an operation on my hand and will be unable to use it to its full capacity for 6 weeks. But this will not affect the rest of my training much as I will still do drills and fitness during this 6 week period.
How did it feel to become champ for a second time?
I was extremely happy with the win but even more so than my first title win as I did it with a broken hand. This is a perfect example why you can’t only rely on one aspect of MMA or one aspect of training.
What’s next for you? Is there anyone that poses a threat to your title?
I am improving with every fight and I am enjoying my sport and my training the more I compete. I hope there is someone that poses a threat, otherwise I won’t be able to better myself and continue enjoying my achievements!
It may take a while for the EFC heavyweight division to produce a contender… how will you keep busy?
I will keep training and keep bettering myself regardless of fights or contenders. My training is the toughest part; my fights are only a reflection of my training.
Did the training overseas at Wolfslair pay off and is it something you’d consider doing again?
Most definitely! I not only enjoyed the training but made very good friends and was very blessed to train and spar with some of the world’s best and have now realised the level I am at and this makes me extremely excited.
How has all the attention been? You’ve given a few interviews and been on TV representing the sport, are you getting used to it/enjoying it?
I have had a lot more interest directed at me and an ever expanding fan base. I truly do feel honoured to be able to be an ambassador to not only the sport of MMA as a whole but as an ambassador for EFC AFRICA not only locally but also internationally. I do enjoy promoting the sport of MMA and endeavour to continue to promote MMA in Africa until it becomes a household name and gets the recognition it deserves.
How did you celebrate the win against Andrew?
LOL. Myself and the entire African Top Team celebrated with a trip to the local McDonalds (Seriously). It was enjoyed by all!
What do you have planned over the festive season?
I will be taking a well-deserved, relaxing break with my family and enjoying the planning and organising of my new training schedule for the new year.
Anyone you’d like to thank or mention?
I would like to thank my sponsors RDG (Rex Diff and Gearbox) and the RDG Team, Ecko Unlimited, Musclepharm, Sedgars, Extension Housing Exchange, my doctor – Dr Frans Verster, my boxing coach – Rupert van Aswegen, my nutritionist and strength coach – David Cooks, Africa Top Team, Jadyson Costa and my Africa Top Team partners Gregor Weichman and Michael Mouneimne, the entire Wolfslair team, my fans, friends and most importantly my family especially Kurt Potts my big brother.