We recently caught up with the top UK heavyweight and UCMMA champ Goliath Grove. Neil will be defending his belt against another highly ranked UK Heavyweight, Stav Economou on the 8th of May. This will be a real life clash of the titans!!
Warriors Of MMA - Hi Neil, hows training for your upcoming title fight going?
Neil Grove - All is going really well thanks! I’ve been on holiday for the last 3 weeks, came back and was quite pleased with my fitness!
Warriors Of MMA - We’ve recently talked to your next opponent Stav Economou, and we also asked him about what he thinks of fighting a friend and ex training partner. There’s been lots in the media recently about friends and groups of MMA fighters not willing to fight each other. What’s your views on this?
Neil Grove - Stav is an amazing guy. I believe that fighting is a business. I’ve heard of guys not wanting to fight each other from the same training camps. To me that just spells fear of losing! If there is a title to fight for, you need the best fighters to fight for it. If you are from the same camp, fight, and shake hands after!
Warriors Of MMA - Where and how long did you train with Stav Economou? Also would you agree that you know what to expect from him in the cage and vice versa?
Neil Grove - In Southend, Essex. For about 6 months. No. I’ve learnt never to under estimate my opponents. I only expect the best from him!
Warriors Of MMA - What sort of fight do you expect?
Neil Grove - He would want to take me down. I would like to keep it standing!
Warriors Of MMA - Your last opponent Karlos Vermola pulled out of the fight last minute. Did that effect your motivation to train and do you think the time between your last fight and now will have any negative effect?
Neil Grove - No not at all. He was meant to be the next best contender for my title, but got ‘injured’ by his own camp…
Neil Grove - Last year I fought in February in the UFC and lost. 8 months later I KO’d Martin Thompson in under a minute. Its only been 6 months since my last. If anything, it makes me more hungry to fight!
Warriors Of MMA - What’s planned for the future after this title fight? Is there anyone you’d love to fight in any organisation?
Neil Grove - I’m hoping to fight abroad. I’ve had offers come and then got let down last minute. Right now, I’d like to fight anyone in the UFC, SF or DREAM. The heavyweight division in the UFC is very exciting at the moment, and I would love to cause a stir in it!
Warriors Of MMA - Thanks for your time Neil. Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans or any shout outs to any sponsors?
Neil Grove - Yes, I’m always greatful for their support! I’m ALWAYS looking for sponsors! Fight gear, suppliments, anything! Thanks!
