Following a string of cancelled bouts, Chris Chapman is finally ready to step back into the octagon.
Chapman (2-1) will host Strathmore's Justin Schmit (4-8) at Havoc FC 13 on Friday night in a 190-pound matchup.
Despite sitting out since April 2016, Chapman has remained active in fight camps during his absence and remains confident the extended break won't hamper his Nov. 16 performance.
"So long as you're training consistently—which I have been over the past couple of years—ring rust shouldn't become a major issue," Chapman told reporters.
"Adrenaline might play a role since I'm not accustomed to fighting regularly anymore, but nothing extreme."
The bout unfolds in Chapman's home city of Red Deer, Alta., which he notes offers subtle benefits during his preparation phase.
While he doesn't anticipate a massive edge once the cage closes, the real perks show up on weigh-in day by avoiding travel stress.
"The biggest benefit is I sleep in my own bed every night. No need to fly out, book hotels, or spend a week away from home with my family," Chapman explained.
"Cutting weight is straightforward too—I know exactly where to go and have access to saunas at friends' homes."
While business appears normal for Chapman, one significant shift from previous outings involves competing at 190 pounds.
Having spent most of his career at lightweight, Chapman is moving up more than two divisions for this bout.
Yet despite the dramatic jump, Chapman insists the transition hasn't weighed heavily on his mind during training.
"Back when I competed at lightweight, I was already a large lightweight. My water cut went from 170 down to 155, so carrying 180-190 pounds isn't foreign to me," Chapman noted.
"Plus, when I was fighting at 155, I was just 22. Now at 25, my frame has filled out considerably, so the size gap won't be as severe as it might seem."
Schmit Leverages Size Edge
While Chapman tackles unfamiliar territory at a heavier weight, Schmit operates comfortably in this range, having competed across welterweight to heavyweight throughout his career.
Schmit acknowledges the weight disparity brings both advantages and disadvantages, though he believes they'll ultimately balance out.
"Lighter opponents often possess superior speed and avoid the brutal weight cuts I endure," Schmit said during an interview.
"However, carrying extra mass and power matters enormously—that's precisely why we cut weight. The pros and cons of size tend to offset each other."
At 33, Schmit recognizes he's navigating the later chapters of his career, which began in 2013.
At this stage in his career, Schmit pursues the most difficult matchups available and trains each bout as though it could be his final appearance.
"I trust my coaches and teammates are setting me up for one of the toughest opponents I've faced," Schmit shared.
"We're approaching this with extreme seriousness. As I near the end of my journey, every fight carries the possibility of being my last. I'm committed to thorough preparation."
Across his 12-fight record, Schmit has earned a reputation for delivering thrilling performances, having never allowed a bout to reach the judges' scorecards.
With Chapman boasting a similarly aggressive approach, Schmit anticipates a spectator-friendly showdown.
"Since we're both relentless competitors, both operating at optimal weights, and both in peak condition, this matchup has the makings of an absolute brawl on the card," Schmit declared.
"At this point in my career, my focus is on producing memorable fights. Training isn't solely about victory anymore—it's about pouring everything into the moment."
Chapman's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank everyone from Arashi Do for helping me get ready."
Schmit's Shoutouts
"I'd like to thank my sponsors Jo-Ash Plumbing and Heating Ltd., Rayton Contracting, Magnum Cementing Services, Palliser Well Service Ltd., Scalptec Inc., Envious Renovations, and Classic Fight Shop. I'd also like to thank my girlfriend and my family for helping me and putting up with me."
