KSW champion Michał Materla will have his second title defense at KSW 23 on June 8^th in Gdańsk/Sopot. He is set to face former UFC fighter Kendall Grove. What does the Berserkers Team standout think about his upcoming foe? What did he learn from another of his trips to USA? Check the interview for the answers.

Hello Michał. How do you feel before your fight at KSW 23?

-I feel great, little injuries here and there, but nothing severe.

You started your preparation for Kendall Grove visiting American Kickboxing Academy. What can you tell us about another trip there?

-It was very productive, I was received very well in San Joes. Thanks to my hard work I was accepted as the member of AKA.

Did you learn anything new in your US trips, that you have not seen in Poland?

-Just some little things, some details in wrestling or striking. Our trainings in Poland aren’t that different from these in USA. There are just more sparring partners available.

Becoming a full time member of AKA was one of the highlights of your visit in San Jose. Does it mean you will represent both AKA and Berserkers Team at your upcoming bout?

-No. I will always represent Berserkers as I learnt my basic skills there and in Skorpion gym. I will always mention American Kickboxing Academy, though. I learnt much there as well and I got confidence in my skills.

 What do you get from your US trips and training with the best?

-As I said, self-confidence. I came to realize that the level of the best fighters in the world is reachable for me and my grappling is pretty advanced.

On June 8^th you are set to defend your middleweight strap for the second time against dangerous Kendall Grove. You must have seen his battle against Mamed. What can tell about him?

-He is a world-class level fighter with well-rounded skills and great physical attributes, but I plan to impose my game on him and finish him inside the distance.

How difficult will it be to conquer his height and reach advantage?

-It depends how the fight unfolds. If my strategy works, his strengths will turn into weaknesses.

Where Grove is more dangerous, in the striking or grappling department?

-Striking.

Grove says he trains like never before for this bout. He wants it to be your last title defense. What would be your response to his bold claims?

-I fought hard to win this belt. I will be ready for anything he brings to the table.

Do you want to say anything to him a few weeks before your clash?

-Take care! Say hi to Hawaii.

Thanks for the interview. If you want to thank your sponsor or people who help, feel free to do it.

-Thanks go to Krzysztof and Stephan from Tenzi, Sherman Exped, Mariusz from Ravex and Filip from Pit Bull.