The MMA debut of Eddie Hall is highly anticipated, with expectations of an explosive start. However, Mariusz Pudzianowski, a seasoned veteran, is prepared to weather Hall`s initial storm.
Both Hall and Pudzianowski, celebrated as former World’s Strongest Man champions, are transitioning from strongman competition to the MMA cage at KSW 105, scheduled for April 26 in Gliwice, Poland. Hall, representing the UK, has minimal MMA experience with a single `freak fight` victory against social media personalities.
In contrast, Pudzianowski is a significant figure in heavyweight MMA, boasting 27 fights over a 16-year career.
Pudzianowski`s Strategy to Counter Hall`s `Unstoppable Force`
Negotiations between Eddie Hall, Mariusz Pudzianowski, and KSW have been ongoing for eight months, culminating in an agreement for a super-heavyweight match. The fight will feature a modified ruleset: two four-minute rounds with extended breaks.
Pudzianowski, at 48, brings considerable experience to the matchup, being 11 years older than Hall. He acknowledges the necessity to withstand Hall`s powerful opening assault to secure victory in this giants` battle.
“Eddie isn`t just a street fighter,” Pudzianowski commented to the media. “He`s incredibly strong, weighing around 160kg now and expected to be 150kg for the fight. I understand that power, coming from a similar background. The first couple of minutes will be like facing an unstoppable force. However, I have experience and strategic thinking to offset youthful aggression.”
“If I can avoid early traps, I should be okay. But we shouldn`t underestimate him. He’s a heavyweight, and his strikes carry significant weight.”
Hall Trains with Tom Aspinall`s Team for Pudzianowski Showdown
Eddie Hall is diligently preparing for the April 26 fight against the experienced Pudzianowski. With only six minutes of MMA cage time, primarily spent evading attacks in his previous fight, Hall is focused on rapid improvement.
“I regularly visit Tom Aspinall’s training camp to discuss effective strategies,” Hall mentioned in a recent media interaction. “I also have excellent home coaches, including Gee Oakes, whose son is a European K1 kickboxing champion. They provide valuable advice and we’re developing solid game plans. While I won’t reveal my exact strategy, I am definitely consulting with Aspinall’s team.”
