Unified MMA is making its return to Southern Alberta.
This Friday, the co-main event of Unified MMA 44 features two homegrown talents facing off: Lethbridge, Alta.’s Tom O’Connor (9-2) and Calgary, Alta.’s John Nguyen (4-2) in a featherweight showdown in Calgary.
At 29, O’Connor has realized that staying true to his own game is key to his preparation. He plans to stick with his style on fight night, pressing the pace and capitalizing on whatever openings arise.
“In my previous bout, I found myself stuck behind the jab too often. That won’t happen again,” O’Connor told MMA Empire in an interview.
“Something else I’ve picked up from that last fight is the importance of following my identity. I can’t let someone else dictate how I fight, so from the opening bell I’ll be the aggressor. I’m going to move forward and string things together. I want to be like a tsunami—just relentless waves crashing until he cracks open and I get my shot.”
After falling short in the XFC lightweight tournament semifinals against Damonte Robinson, O’Connor wants to show how much he’s improved since then.
Just two of O’Connor’s nine victories have gone to judges’ decision, and he understands that finishing fights is the quickest route up the rankings.
“Both XFC fights taught me a lot,” he said.
“Pacing myself better, managing my energy, and raising my fight IQ are major areas I’ve focused on. MMA is at such a high level now—everyone keeps evolving. It’s incredible how skilled most fighters are today, and if you want to stand out you need finishes. Finishing fights isn’t just a bonus, it’s central to the sport.”
For the third time in his career, O’Connor will drop to 145 pounds this weekend.
Over the past few years, injuries have slowed the momentum of a fighter who was climbing steadily, but he hopes a strong showing this weekend will kick off his next ascent.
“Every cut is different since I haven’t spent much time at 145. It can definitely be a challenge,” O’Connor noted.
“Everything feels solid this camp. My body is strong and healthy. Dealing with injuries in training has been a problem for the last three or four years. My preparation wasn’t at a high enough level, which left me vulnerable. I’ve been very disciplined, I feel good, and I think this will be my best cut yet.”
O’Connor was also eager to acknowledge his opponent’s abilities as he gears up for his 12th professional appearance.
Even though the two haven’t sparred together, O’Connor has watched Nguyen fight more than once in person.
“He’s really tough and super sharp on his feet,” he said.
“When it comes to attributes, he’s got some seriously impressive ones, and I respect that. He’s fast, has quick hands, uses his range effectively, and has natural timing. I’ve had the chance to see him compete a few times and I can’t wait to go toe to toe with him.”
Unified MMA has delivered another top-tier Canadian matchup this weekend.
One of the most anticipated featherweight bouts on the regional circuit this year will headline when the doors close on O’Connor and Nguyen.
“I’ve only competed in Southern Alberta once before, so I’m pumped for this,” O’Connor said.
“Plus John’s another homegrown fighter, so the crowd should be electric. We’re both rising and chasing that elite spot as we look toward bigger promotions. It’s a perfect moment for both of us. Co-main on UFC Fight Pass in his hometown. He’s a tough opponent, and I think it’s going to be a great fight—for us and for the fans.”
O’Connor’s shoutouts
“Progressive Fighting Academy, all my coaches, Dynamic MMA for the rounds and my sponsor Frontline Towing.” Follow O’Connor on social media: FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM
