Josh Kwiatkowski is setting out to compete in hostile territory, and he couldn't be more thrilled about it.
Aldergrove's Kwiatkowski (1-2) is set to square off against Saskatoon's Blair Oster (4-5) in a lightweight matchup at Modern FC 3 on Friday evening in Saskatoon, SK.
Since the fight will take place in Oster's home city, Kwiatkowski, 25, will step into the role of the heel—a part he's grown accustomed to since his amateur days.
"I've attended numerous bouts across the States and Brazil where absolutely nobody except maybe my mother or a close relative is rooting for me. I'm totally comfortable with that," Kwiatkowski shared during an interview.
"Stepping in as the bad guy is something I genuinely enjoy. I want to prove I'm the superior fighter, and I'm hoping he's prepared."
Unlike most mixed martial arts cards held inside a cage, Modern FC 3 will unfold in a boxing ring—an arrangement that could shift things considerably depending on each competitor's strengths.
Kwiatkowski explained that he's logged plenty of ring time throughout his formative years in martial arts, and it plays right into his comfort zone.
"I'd argue the ring beats the cage; the atmosphere alone is fantastic. Defending takedowns changes when you can't wall-walk for help—it really brings grappling into sharper focus," Kwiatkowski noted.
"June 7 should deliver faster-paced action for every competitor. Fighters who thrive on pushing forward and maintaining intensity will certainly benefit."
Endurance Advantage
After already battling through two five-round decisions across three professional outings, plus multiple such efforts as an amateur, Kwiatkowski has demonstrated a proven ability to carry weight across three rounds while remaining effective.
Oster, meanwhile, has tasted decision victory just once throughout his pro career, with the bulk of his contests wrapping up inside the opening frame.
Should their clash extend past the early stages, Kwiatkowski feels confident he holds the advantage in conditioning.
"Conditioning has always been my trump card against most competitors I face. If we survive past the opening round against Blair, it's going to be a long, grueling night for him," Kwiatkowski stated.
"That stamina advantage, combined with grit and toughness, and the refusal to ever give up—that's all working in my favor."
Kwiatkowski has faced his share of formidable challengers already in his professional journey, including outings against Jorge Alcala and Cleve Bentley in his latest appearances.
The Aldergrove native anticipates a similarly demanding challenge from the seasoned Oster, and he expects another hard-fought scrap.
"From what I can see, he's a real brawler—just wants to exchange blows and land heavy shots," observed Kwiatkowski.
"He comes in trying to force his game plan on opponents. He boasts four first-round stoppages, and every other loss came via submission, so he's clearly a one-dimensional fighter. I've got strong hands, I appreciate my striking, and I like pushing myself. I'm eager to discover what Blair has in store."
Kwiatkowski's Acknowledgments
"I want to give thanks to Micah Brakefield, the entire crew at Checkmat, the squad at Titan MMA, Shawn Albrecht, Dan Golkar, Tristan Connelly, and everyone at The Sound up in Squamish." Connect with Kwiatkowski online: FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM
