For Shane Campbell, stepping into the cage for a championship bout is nothing new.
The Vancouver-based Campbell (16-7) is set to put his Unified MMA lightweight strap on the line against Edmonton's Menad Abella (5-1) this Friday night at Unified MMA 36 in Enoch, Alta.
Campbell captured the belt by knocking out Tristan Connelly in 2017, and this marks his third consecutive title defense. He's eager to defend the crown once more in front of a hometown crowd.
"It's really nice having so much support in Edmonton. I have a lot of friends that come out and watch me fight," Campbell told reporters.
"I've trained at almost every gym in the city, so I have a lot of people backing me here, and that really helps."
At 31, Campbell has spent plenty of time competing at 155 pounds, but his opponent faces a different challenge entirely.
Abella has never stepped into the octagon at lightweight before, having fought exclusively at welterweight throughout his career. Campbell figures that weight cut could tilt things in his favor.
"I'm a big man too, but I've done it before and I know how to do it. With it being his first time, I think it should play a factor," Campbell said.
"I think he's going to be in for a rude awakening of how much it really sucks."
Having logged 23 professional bouts—including five outings in the UFC—Campbell brings plenty of experience to the table.
He expects Abella to try to keep the fight on the feet and is curious how the challenger plans to engage inside the cage.
"He says that he's going to make me suffer, so I'm excited for that," Campbell added.
"The only person that's ever made me suffer is me, so good luck with that, kid."
Abella Knows What's Coming
Abella has only six pro fights to his name, but he doesn't shy away from the challenge of facing a seasoned veteran like Campbell.
Even though Campbell boasts multiple finishes via knockout and submission, Abella is convinced there's only one path to victory against him.
"He's a one-dimensional kind of fighter. I know what he's bringing, and I'm going to see everything coming," Abella said during a media interview.
"He has nothing new to show me or for me to expect."
Before suffering his most recent decision loss, Abella posted a five-fight win streak that featured four stoppages, setting him up for his first-ever title opportunity.
For Abella, this is a career-defining moment. A victory over Campbell would significantly elevate his standing in the sport.
"This would be everything I've been training for since my beginning," Abella said.
"It's very important. It'll be a big jump for me to the bigger leagues."
Both fighters have been trading heated words on social media ahead of the bout.
Abella insists he's not the type to start drama, but he promises to silence anyone who crosses him.
"I'm usually respectful of guys, but when they open their mouth, I hope they will eat their words," Abella said.
"I know I'm going in there with really mean intentions, and it will show on March 1."
Campbell's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank Apothec Naturals and Wellness Clinic, Flex Chiropractic and Performance, Careit Urban Deli, and everyone that's ever supported me and gave me love throughout my career."
Abella's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank Little Sweatshop, Shaved Bears MMA, Frank Lee's Muay Thai, Jeff Montemurro, Keijiro Noda, Crystal Glass, Dr. Niz Saab from City Centre Health Edmonton Chiropractic, The Firm Management, and a big thank you to my wife."
