Mixed martial arts [MMA] is a branch of combat sports that is fast becoming a trend worldwide. The sport includes various fighting styles, such as kickboxing, taekwondo, kung fu, BJJ, and many more. As the name implies, it involves mixing all the fighting styles to bring down your opponent and score a win. The sport first came into existence in 1993, and over time, it has slowly spread across different parts of the world, including Nigeria.
In 2014, the Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation was formed to encourage athletes interested in MMA to compete. Since then, many private bodies have set up promotions and contests to encourage fighters to showcase their talents and prove their mettle. One such fighter is Cornelius Godspower Obuborosa. The 30-year-old fighter hails from Port Harcourt state, Nigeria, and began his MMA journey in 2019. Godspower is currently signed to Sika Fighting Club and has been a great addition to the fight promotion. The fighter’s relentlessness and perseverance have pushed him against all odds to succeed and make a name for himself.
We at Afrocombat.com took some time to speak with Cornelius and gain insight into his life and what motivates him.
When did you start MMA, and why did you get into it?
I started MMA in 2019.
Our foundations vary, and the reasons why we started martial arts in the first place also vary. I began training to learn self-defense until I was challenged to my first fight.
How did you get into MMA tournaments?
Officially, I used my first pro fight (Debut) with WSC, which came as a replacement for a fighter, but before then, I was actively involved in Kickboxing.
While I was doing this, organizations like DFC Africa had already begun to make shows and exhibition fights here in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Another factor that helped me get into MMA was the introduction of Kuwat-Alrami– a takedown sport resembling Sambo judo and its like. Then, senior fighters who had experience started showing us a way of self-defense, and later, I moved into it fully.
How many amateur fights have you had, and what difference have you noticed since turning pro?
I have had several fights which are of record/tapology. Owing to various demonstrations and in-house competitions. One most recent was an MMA demonstration, where I scored at the National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State, in 2022. By this time, I had had about two pro bouts.
What was your hardest fight?
My hardest fight was my first pro fight (Debut) in WSC against Uzor Kingsley. This is because the fight came as an emergency due to the replacement of the original fighter. Secondly, I met an experienced wrestler with little or no ground experience. I just fought. I had no plans, no or less technicality, but I went all three rounds with my opponent, which ended in a split decision win. However, after this win was announced, they uploaded my opponent as the winner on Tapology, which was unbelievably painful. It broke my zeal for some time.
What martial arts have you trained in the most?
I have trained in Kickboxing the most, which was my foundation before the adoption of the rules of engagement in MMA.
Is there any martial art you would like to switch to?
There’s none other than MMA. Mixed martial arts (MMA) as an art, is an incorporation of every art. Fighting MMA is fighting as a striker, grappler, and what have you. But if I should specify further, an art to switch to I would like to switch to is Jiu Jitsu. This is in order to upgrade my ground game and incorporate it with my striking.
What do you think about your next opponent?
My opponent is a great guy. He’s good at his level, a hungry, aggressive man, and a nice individual with talent.
Is there any way you would like to end the fight?
There’s no special way to end the fight. Sometimes, what you prepare for is not what you may meet in the Octagon. So, I will simply get in and fight. If there’s anything to note, it will open up by itself, and I’ll see it and leverage it.
What plans do you have after this fight?
This fight is like a fresher or a test to me. It will determine my next training targets. Also, the goal is to go beyond our shores on this field. I should start working to match international standards more, etc.
Who is your favorite MMA fighter?
I really don’t have a favorite fighter because there are many shades. I have modeled good fighters’ psyches, fighting approaches, personalities, athleticism, etc. This makes it difficult to mention names
If their names must be mentioned, they are Israel Adesanya, Jon Jones, Michael ‘Venom’ Page, and especially Edson Barboza.
What advice do you have for younger folks who want to compete in MMA?
To the younger folks who want to compete in MMA, you must know why!
It’s not an easy game, I must say. Anything can happen.
So, Discipline. Younger folks must marry self-discipline, have resilience, and stay focused. Don’t hurry to be famous, don’t come for the money alone. It must be with love for the game and
passion for which they can go through thick and thin until success is written.
Cornelius Godspower is set to battle Victor Dooga on June 29 at the Sika Fighting Club [SFC].
