Only two months into 2021, Justin Condie is already chasing his second victory of the calendar year.
Saturday night brings the co-main event of Peak Fighting 8, where Mattawa, Ontario's Condie (3-0) and Texas' Christopher Miller (2-3) clash in a 160-pound catchweight bout in Little Rock, Ark.
After a sluggish 2020, the 31-year-old Condie hopes to build momentum with this contest. Just under a month ago at Peak Fighting's previous outing, he earned his latest victory via a swift first-round stoppage of Daniel Staggs.
The new year is turning out far more favorably for Condie and his camp, and much of that improvement traces back to his relocation across the border.
"Texas has been wonderful, we've really enjoyed making the switch," Condie shared with MMA Empire.
"Genesis MMA welcomed our team with open arms. The energy is great and we're thrilled to be training and pushing ourselves."
With fewer training and competition restrictions across various American states, numerous Canadian fighters have been relocating to U.S.-based gyms and promotions.
The alternative—sitting idle and waiting—was not a path Condie intended to pursue any further.
"There's no telling what's happening in Canada right now. Every event that gets scheduled ends up getting called off. Our approach has been to grab the opportunity right in front of us instead of waiting for one that might never materialize," Condie explained.
"We only have so many chances and I just spent an entire year sidelined with broken promises. We want to secure the fights that are confirmed now and see where things go from there. I'm prepared, I'm in great shape, and I have no intention of slowing down."
Going undefeated as a professional marks a dramatic shift from Condie's 1-5 amateur record—a period that now feels like a distant memory for the fighter who has steadily elevated his skills as a martial artist. What has driven the most significant change?
"I think it comes down to treating the sport with greater seriousness and genuinely committing to becoming a mixed martial artist," Condie said.
"During my amateur days, I was essentially just a striker with almost zero grappling knowledge. I was also pretty arrogant—I figured I could walk in there and punch people into submission. That attitude got humbling. So I dedicated myself to learning jiu-jitsu and wrestling. I put myself in positions to grow as a martial artist. Now that my game is much more balanced, I feel confident throwing techniques without worrying about what happens on the ground. My mindset has completely shifted because I'm now comfortable taking the fight wherever it goes."
For his fourth professional outing, Condie anticipates stiffer opposition than his previous opponent and is eager to demonstrate everything he's developed.
Even with a losing overall record, Miller has proven competitive in every appearance, and Condie recognizes the threat Miller poses with his 6'2" frame at lightweight. Regardless of how long the bout lasts, he believes it will provide excitement for viewers.
"I believe I can beat him regardless of where the fight goes. My striking is significantly better, and if we hit the mat, I can finish him there as well. He's absolutely coming to fight—he's much tougher than the last opponent I faced," Condie said.
"I'll stick with my standard game plan. I prefer maintaining a tight guard, and whenever he leaves an opening, he'll face consequences—hopefully making him reconsider his next move. I'm genuinely looking forward to this fight. I think we can deliver an exciting bout for the fans."
Condie's Shoutouts
"All my sponsors, my coaches: Brendan Kalijundic, Justin Bruckmann and Corey Jackson. All my teammates and training partners." Follow Condie on social media: INSTAGRAM
