Eddy George eagerly anticipates his next fight against Chris Mixan at the Theater at Madison Square Garden on August 18, 2023. The two lightweight fighters are set to clash at PFL 8, with 11 fights lined up for the event, including four 2023 PFL playoff bouts.
In a recent interview, George expressed excitement and confidence for the upcoming bout, sharing insights into his preparation, training regimen, and feelings about fighting at the iconic venue.
Excited for the Match-Up
George, who holds a 6-1-0 record, is looking forward to facing off against the undefeated Mixan (5-0-0). He said about the match-up, “I love it, man. I think Chris is a worthy adversary, and it will make a fan-friendly fight. I expect fireworks.” He also highlighted his strategy, combining striking with wrestling skills. “It’s the recipe for a very fun fight,” he added.
The Magnitude of Fighting at MSG
George tried to downplay the hype when asked about fighting at Madison Square Garden but couldn’t hide his excitement. “I’m trying not to get myself hyped up about it,” he said. With only seven professional fights under his belt, fighting at “the Mecca” of combat sports is an extraordinary opportunity.
Training at The Lab in Arizona
Switching gears, George shared details about his current training camp at The Lab in Arizona. Having initially visited Arizona last year, he was impressed by the “great camaraderie” and quality training. George emphasized the importance of focused preparation, saying, “Everything was just going so great over there.” His time training in Arizona a week before his call from the PFL helped him easily accept the fight when offered.
The fighter also addressed the difficulties of training on the East Coast, where the need for extensive travel can be exhausting. By contrast, training at The Lab provides a distraction-free environment where he can solely focus on his preparation.
Personal Sacrifices
One of the more poignant moments in the interview came when George discussed his sacrifices for his career, particularly spending time away from his daughter. He said it’s “a sacrifice that needs to be made,” likening it to a work trip.
Though he stays connected through daily FaceTime calls, the physical separation is tough. “By the time the fight’s over, it’d be seven weeks of me not seeing my daughter in person,” George said, adding that this sacrifice has become an additional reason to “fuel the fire” to win the fight.
Eddy George’s upcoming fight against Chris Mixan promises to be an electrifying showdown between two talented lightweights. With George’s new training regimen, excitement for fighting at Madison Square Garden, and a determination fueled by personal sacrifices, this bout will be one to watch at PFL 8.
The event, featuring three 5-minute rounds in the lightweight division (155 lbs), will take place at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, on Friday, August 18, 2023.
