After years of preparation, Olivier Poisson is finally stepping into the spotlight for his maiden championship bout.
Poisson (5-0) squares off against Alex Gluzman (2-0) in a clash for the MFL amateur featherweight championship on Saturday evening during the co-main card of MFL 19.
The 21-year-old competitor from Montreal, Que., aims to keep his undefeated amateur standing intact and lift the championship gold around his waist this weekend.
Poisson's current five-bout winning run has unfolded exclusively within the MFL cage, and he described the experience of battling for a belt in the organization as the realization of everything he has worked toward so far.
"It's an outstanding promotion. A ton of upcoming talent is fighting in MFL, so reaching the pinnacle of my amateur journey with them is incredible," said Poisson in a conversation with MMA Empire.
His most recent triumph at MFL 18, a decision over Keith Henhawk, pushed his finish percentage to 80 per cent, with every single stoppage arriving through rear-naked choke submissions.
He credited the success of his ground game to consistent, focused training sessions.
"My submissions are just the result of my daily commitment in the gym. I put in the hours, I take training seriously," said Poisson.
"I'm surrounded by an exceptional team and fantastic coaches. So when I'm performing well in competition, it's because of their influence and the effort we put in together."
Poisson develops his skills at H2O MMA, one of Quebec's premier MMA gyms, under the tutelage of Richard Ho.
Training alongside elite sparring partners while receiving direction from a skilled head coach has proven highly beneficial for Poisson in high-stakes situations.
"Our gym has a huge roster with numerous amateur fighters who have competed in MFL before, some who will step into the cage on Saturday, and professional competitors as well," said Poisson.
"I'm fortunate to spar with athletes across various styles and experience levels. That diversity is precisely what makes the gym so strong."
Poisson had the privilege of competing in the first Canadian MMA event following the COVID-19 outbreak.
His submission victory at MFL 17 over Drew Truax via rear-naked choke in August 2020 was an emotional milestone for the young fighter.
"Everyone was desperate to get back into competition, so returning to fight inside the cage meant a lot," said Poisson.
"The event ran smoothly, and securing the win added to the joy and gratitude I felt."
Now Poisson is laser-focused on the challenge ahead: facing fellow unbeaten amateur prospect Gluzman.
When discussing Gluzman's abilities as a mixed martial artist ahead of their featherweight championship matchup, Poisson highlighted his opponent's striking prowess.
"I've seen him fight; he has solid counter punching, fast hands, and sharp combinations. His standup game looks impressive overall."
Connect with Poisson on social media: INSTAGRAM
