Before undefeated light-heavyweight James Garmany tries to defend his Valor Fights Amateur Championship against fellow unbeaten fighter Logan Woods at Valor Fights 38 on November 5 in Nashville, Tenn., live on FloCombat, he sat down with Pro MMA Now.
How did you find MMA to begin with?
My childhood friend was always asking me what I was going to do after school. I said I was going to school and go play football. He said I should try fighting, but football was more for me at the time. I went to school to play football, but that didn’t work out. A couple years ago, I started getting in trouble about fighting, and my childhood friend, who’s now my trainer, kept on me about fighting and getting involved in MMA. The next time I got in trouble, I decided that was it and I went and joined his gym.
Was that a turning point for you?
Totally. I haven’t gotten in any trouble since then.
What kind of impact do you think MMA has had on your life?
It has helped me. I have had anger problems, and it’s humbled me a lot. I can control my anger better because I know what I can do. It’s been positive.
Are you at all surprised by your success?
I’m surprised that I’m taking it so far. I didn’t think I was going to jump so high so quick. I thought it would take more time. I’m still in my first year. I’m surprised at how quick it has gone.
Is this the biggest fight of your career so far?
Yes, it is. Logan Woods is my opponent, and he seems pretty good. He’s 7-0, so let’s go.