The French Islam Taisumov (2-0) steps into the cage against Canadian fighter Samuel Giguere (0-3) this Friday at Trophee des Etoiles 15 as they clash in a featherweight contest at Arena Du Pays D'Aix in Aix-en-Provence, France.
Taisumov, who turned 22 earlier this year, hails from Chechnya and currently trains in southern France.
The chance to compete on home soil carries particular weight for Taisumov, given that mixed martial arts only recently became legal in France.
"It's an honor to step into the octagon before a French audience," Taisumov told MMA Empire. "For my upcoming bout in July, I'm going to give absolutely everything to make sure I don't let them down. And inshallah, I'll walk away victorious at the Arena Du Pays D'Aix in Aix-en-Provence."
When pressed about his opponent, Taisumov brought a grounded perspective to the matchup by drawing on a well-known cinematic reference.
"I respect every single person in this sport—that includes everyone," Taisumov shared. "To Samuel, I wish you the best of luck in this battle, my friend."
"Look, John Wick sought revenge for his dog in a movie, but that's fiction. This isn't a movie, brother. This is real combat. This is MMA, not cinema. I believe you're prepared for what's ahead, and so am I. I'm ready."
Taisumov hones his craft alongside his gym's founder and benefits from an impressive array of training partners.
"I work with my coaches, particularly Serge Eloffe," Taisumov explained. "As for sparring partners, I don't pick favorites. I train with everyone in the gym, without exception."
His last outing stretches back to March 2019.
Since that spectacular sub-minute triangle choke submission against Steven Dupont, there's plenty Taisumov is anxious to prove, and Trophee des Etoiles 15 marks the stage where this evolved version of Taisumov will finally take the spotlight.
"You'll find out in my next bout, inshallah. That's the surprise. A real surprise."
Taisumov's Shoutouts
"Big love to all fighters from France and Chechnya. Thank you so much to MMA Empire for sitting down for this interview. I really appreciate it. Best of luck to everyone." Keep track of Taisumov online: FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM
