Welsh MMA fighter Lewis Long is gearing up for a challenging showdown against Scotland’s Stevie Ray at the upcoming PFL Glasgow event. Despite initially planning to retire at the age of 35, Long finds himself still deeply immersed in the sport and enjoying every moment of it.
A New Lease of Life
Long, known as ‘Foot’ Long in the MMA world, is set to headline the PFL Glasgow show on September 27th in a welterweight bout against the seasoned UFC veteran, Stevie Ray. With 19 wins under his belt, including 12 by submission, Long is no stranger to the octagon. However, he acknowledges the tough competition Ray poses and is determined to prove himself as more than just an underdog in this matchup.
Embracing Challenges
Long’s professional record speaks for itself, showcasing his skills and determination to succeed in the sport. Despite a period of inactivity, Long has been strategic in waiting for the right opportunities to showcase his abilities. His upcoming bout against Ray is a testament to his commitment to facing formidable opponents and pushing himself to new heights.
Long’s decision to wait for the right opportunity has paid off, as he now finds himself headlining a prestigious event like PFL Glasgow. The chance to showcase his talents on such a platform is both exhilarating and motivating for Long, who is eager to demonstrate his worth and secure a victory in the cage.
A Battle of Respect
While the buildup to MMA fights often involves trash talk and animosity between opponents, Long and Ray are taking a different approach. Both fighters have immense respect for each other’s skills and experience, leading to a mutual understanding and camaraderie as they prepare to face off in the octagon. Long emphasizes the importance of focusing on the fight itself rather than engaging in needless theatrics for publicity.
The upcoming PFL event in Glasgow marks a significant milestone for the organization, as it ventures into Scotland for the first time. Long’s involvement in the tournament extends beyond just this fight, as he has already committed to participating in next year’s European tournament. His dedication to the sport and his hunger for competition remain strong, even after 16 years of professional fighting.
Long’s journey in MMA has been fueled by his passion for the sport and his unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Despite the challenges and obstacles he has faced along the way, Long’s love for fighting has never wavered. He views each opponent as an opportunity to test his abilities and grow as a fighter, rather than simply chasing titles and accolades.
As Long prepares to step into the cage against Ray, he reflects on the early days of his MMA career and the sacrifices he made to pursue his passion. From working nightclub doors to studying forensic science at university, Long’s dedication to training and fighting has always been unwavering. His journey in the sport has been defined by a deep-rooted love for competition and a desire to constantly evolve and improve.
In conclusion, Lewis Long’s upcoming showdown against Stevie Ray at PFL Glasgow represents more than just a fight between two seasoned fighters. It’s a testament to Long’s enduring passion for the sport, his willingness to face challenges head-on, and his commitment to continuous growth and improvement. As he steps into the octagon once again, Long’s journey in MMA continues to inspire and showcase the true essence of a dedicated martial artist.