By Will Gray
Standing at 6’4” and possessing some of the best striking in the UFC heavyweight division, long time contender Cheick Kongo (17-6-2) heads into his match against PRIDE veteran Mark Hunt at UFC 144 this Saturday, live from Japan. Coming off of an impressive year, that saw him win in legendary fashion by knocking out Pat Barry (UFC on Versus 4, June 2011) and then hand Matt Mitrione his first loss, the Wolfslair star has adapted a new gameplan and arsenal to the Octagon that will help him in his ultimate quest, the UFC heavyweight championship.
In preparation for his bout, Kongo was kind enough to sit down with Fight Hub TV and answer some questions, helping us better know and understand what motivates the Savate fighter.
FHTV: Cheick, what are your thoughts on Strikeforce heavyweights coming into the UFC?
Kongo: It is a really good thing for the UFC. I want to fight the best Heavyweight fighters in the world.
FHTV: Do you feel they are on the same level as the UFC division?
Kongo: Alistair Overeem’s victory against Brock Lesnar tells a lot about the level of the Strikeforce fighters.
FHTV: Anyone particular you look at and think that fight is interesting for me?
Kongo: Not really; I am focused on my goal, which is to earn a fight for the belt. A fight for the title.
FHTV: In your opinion and prediction, who do you see winning between Junior Dos Santos and Alistair Overeem?
Kongo: Both guys have skills to win. To be honest, I don’t know both are experienced strikers, top level fighters.
FHTV: Are there any weaknesses you see in Overeem?
Kongo: I keep them for me. As you know, I am ready for great things this year and I’d probably fight Overeem sooner or later …
FHTV: What do you make of the criticism that some say you are a dirty fighter? Are you ever worried that because of past fouls that people may see you this way now?
Kongo: I don’t pay attention to that, I know who I am.
FHTV: Your fight this weekend in Japan, UFC 144 against Mark Hunt, where do you see yourself after this fight, given either outcome?
Kongo: I see myself on the road for a title shot
FHTV: This card marks the return to Japan for the UFC, what does it mean to you fighting in Japan, at the Saitama Super Arena, especially at the level MMA is at now?
Kongo: It means a lot. This will be my first time in Japan, land of martial arts.
FHTV: When you are not training, what do you enjoy to do in your off time?
Kongo: I spend some quality time with my family and friends, doing simple and usual leisure activities.
FHTV: If you were not fighting, what is your dream job?
Kongo: I wish I could give all my time to charities and non-profit organizations all around the world.
FHTV: Favorite movie, favorite junk food when not training?
Kongo: My favorite movie is a French one called LEON. I can eat all I want, training or not; I love to eat some French pancakes (crêpes).
FHTV: Any sponsors or shout outs you would like to provide for fans?
Kongo: I would like to thank all my fans around the world, Fight Hub TV and your readers, my team Wolfslair, my friends and my family, my sponsors Huntington Beach Ford, MMA ELITE, Muscle PHARM, WHEREAMFROM, RACKSTARZ, PULL-IN and KC Muay Thai and the ones I forgot! Don’t miss my fight at UFC 144 – Japan this weekend!
