With 51 professional bouts under his belt, Nate Williams carries a wealth of ring experience into his next challenge.
Representing Des Moines, Iowa, Williams (31-20) steps into the cage Saturday evening to take on James Clarke (4-3) at B2 Fighting Series 122. The matchup for the flyweight championship takes place in Olathe, Kansas.
At just 33 years old, Williams has already established himself as a seasoned competitor. He enters this bout riding a two-fight win streak and hunting yet another regional belt.
"Obviously, I'll be a lot more experienced," Williams told MMA Empire.
"My experience should help this fight; I have experience on my side, 50-plus fights. I've seen it all, black belts, wrestlers, strikers and more. Nothing he can do to surprise me. If he does, good for him."
Williams has his sights set on adding another championship to his collection during what has become an extraordinary 50-fight career. The obstacle standing between him and that goal is Clarke, as both fighters battle for the promotion's flyweight crown.
"I want to end my career with the most belts," Williams stated.
"I have 16 right now, I want to end with the most ever. This title means the world to me, it'll be number 17 on the shelf, that's special."
The Iowan runs his own training facility, something he attributes to his longevity and ability. Training six days each week in his own space, Williams has balanced the demands of operating a gym through the pandemic's challenges.
"I own my own gym, I'm here," Williams told MMA Empire.
"COVID was different. Lots of protocols to listen, new rules, masks, it is difficult. I still try to better myself every day, COVID or not, as a fighter and an owner. It sucks, lot of extra cleaning, always nervous about needing to shut down."
When it comes to fight night preparation, Williams feels confident regardless of how things unfold.
"He's a wrestler; he will wrestle me and I welcome that," Williams said.
"If he tries to grapple, okay lets do it. Tries to strike? I've got striking. Not many places this man can beat me, and it'll show on fight night."
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