Danny Cullen – next champion from Rochdale?

Danny Cullen

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Danny Cullen could become Amateur British MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) Featherwight Champion if he beats the undefeated Ross Jones on Saturday 30 November. Danny, from Littleborough, will be competing for the title in Stoke on Trent and hopes to make Rochdale proud with a win.

Danny, 27, who has been fighting for four years, said: “I feel good about the fight. I have been training really hard and have learnt a lot.”

Danny, who has been training with Rochdale's professional MMA fighter Martin Stapleton at the Full Contact Performance Centre, has been preparing for the fight for almost nine weeks, training five times a week.

“The coaching and the gym really make you feel confident. It is really hard not to get motivated in there,” said Danny.

Danny’s training has included MMA classes, judo classes and boxing classes. “It takes over your life – but in a good way,” added Danny

Danny’s opponent, Ross Jones is currently undefeated with a win loss record of 6-0. This record is something that doesn’t faze Danny. He said: “When you have the chance to work with someone like Martin Stapleton, who is world class, and you can do well against him, it makes you feel confident that you can take on anyone.”

The title shot comes at a time when Danny is ready and raring to go. He has recently come back from a knee injury, in which he suffered two torn ligaments. Due to the injury, Danny was away from the cage for three months and has spent time rehabilitating his knee with a mixture of strength and conditioning training.

Danny is feeling confident about the fight, he said: “I think it will be tough but I am confident. I want to be challenged and I think this fight will be a great challenge.”

If he wins, not only will Danny break Ross Jones’ undefeated record but he will also become the first Amateur Champion for the Full Contact Performance Centre as well as a champion for Rochdale.

“If I were to win on Saturday it would be amazing. It would be a nice early Christmas present. I am hoping to come back with a win and make Rochdale proud,” said Danny.