Confidence galore ahead of EFC showdown
JP Buys is looking to make a sizeable statement in his second professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fight, at EFC 43, in Durban, on Thursday, August 27.
The Farrarmere resident will take on hometown fighter Baldwin Mdlalose in the flyweight fight, which headlines the preliminary card at the Durban International Convention Centre.
The amateur MMA champion, who ensured an EFC debut fight victory at EFC 41 versus Namibian fighter Josemar Octavio, is upbeat and seemingly fearless of his new opponent’s abilities.
Buys told the City Times that he is really looking forward to facing the Durbanite in his backyard, and that a second professional victory is all but guaranteed.
Asked what he knows about Mdlalose, the Benoni fighter replied: “He beat Jasen van der Merwe, who I was supposed to fight on debut and has a record of two wins and four losses, which explains a lot.
“He has some flashy stand-up moves, but it’s nothing I cannot overcome,” said Buys.
With regard to his opponent’s hometown advantage, Buys commented: “If you fight to entertain the crowd then it [home advantage] is a big deal.
“I am fighting for myself and for my team; if the crowd doesn’t like me it won’t change my performance.
“This is my job, I come to fight not make his fans happy.”
The Fight Fit Militia (FFM) fighter added that MMA fans can expect him to “go to Durban and smash whatever is in my way.”
