Thailand training prepares Kruger
A few weeks in Thailand has got JP Kruger in shape for his main fight at EFC Africa 22.
Brakpan kickboxing club Xtreme Kickboxing Technologies’ (XKT) fighter JP Kruger is preparing for the main bout at EFC Africa 22, on August 15, at Carnival City.
The redheaded, fierce fighter will face Tumelo Maphutha on the night, in what promises to be an exciting battle.
If Kruger wins, he will be a middleweight title contender.
He has been hard at work in preparation for the fight, and recently spent two weeks training in Thailand.
“Thailand was awesome, I had the opportunity to spar with the best of the best there,” he said.
His coach, Shihan Raymond Phillips, accompanied the fighter to Thailand and said that the trip sought to prepare Kruger for his upcoming EFC fight.
“We were privileged to have veteran and seasoned fighters like Brian Ebersole, a long time friend of XKT, and Roger Huerta helping us to prepare,” Phillips added.
“We have a great team to help us, including our local team, consisting of director James Read from XKT and BJJ head coach Jurgen Pitter, from Rio Grappling.
“A good team is needed to get to the top and we are thankful for these awesome coaches.”
Even though a win will earn the fighter known as “Tinkerbell” a title shot, he doesn’t want to look too far ahead and is definitely not underestimating his opponent.
“Every fight needs an important win,” said Kruger.
“I have to look at this fight on its own merits.
“Maphutha is a big guy, and his stand-up work is strong.”
Kruger thanked everybody around him for their continued support.
“I would like to thank XKT and Rio Grappling [trainers],” he said.
“I also want to thank my lady, my family and friends.”
Along with Kruger, XKT will have two other fighters competing in EFC 22, Cedric Doil and Chimmy van Winkel.
