Philpott in confident form for Dublin test

Ballymena mixed martial artist Alan Philpott is in confident form ahead of his big fight this weekend.
Alan Philpott takes on Regis Sugden for the BAMMA Lonsdale title in Dublin on Saturday.Alan Philpott takes on Regis Sugden for the BAMMA Lonsdale title in Dublin on Saturday.
Alan Philpott takes on Regis Sugden for the BAMMA Lonsdale title in Dublin on Saturday.

‘The Apprentice’ faces up-and-coming Englishman Regis Sugden (3-0) for the BAMMA Lonsdale Title at Dublin’s 3Arena this Saturday night.

Philpott, one of a number of exciting fighters to emerge from Rodney Moore’s IMMA gym in Ballymena, is looking to get back on track after suffering a defeat against Ed Arthur in his previous contest

“I felt comfortable against Arthur, maybe even too comfortable.

“I was the better striker, the better wrestler - it was just one of those things.

“I switched off for about two seconds and at this level you can’t switch off because the whole fight just went into his hands.

“I’ve been working a lot on when I get into bad positions, not to panic as much and rush getting up.

“It’s more about thinking about it, taking the focus, controlling myself and doing everything step by step.

Regis is a good fighter, I’ll give him credit where credit is due.

He has got skill, he’s a good wee stand-up fighter and a good grappler but it’s too much too soon for him.

People think it’s time for him to step up a level but he’s come up to this level and I’m going to knock him back down.

“I’m at a different level, I’ve been in with these guys.

“I’m the number one in the UK, I know I am, it’s just about fixing my own wee mistakes.

“I’m only 22, I’m young, people think I’m a journeyman or whatever but I’m only getting going too.

“I have loads to learn, I have so many years before I even hit my prime.

“I know the fight game, I’ve been at it long enough and it’s only the beginning. I’m more experience and I’m ready to go.

It’s going to be a good fight for sure but I’m going to shine and I’m going to show the difference between me and Regis Sugden,” added Alan.

Also on the same bill, another Ballymena fighter, Rhys Mckee, will make his professional debut against John Redmond, while Antrim’s Conor Cooke takes on the undefeated Paul Byrne.