After several years out of action, Liverpool pioneer, Dean Garnett, is looking forward to making a triumphant return at Hexagone MMA 6.
With natural fighting IQ and the athleticism to match, the ferocious competitor has established his place among the best martial artists in the UK. And in front of 6800 screaming fans at the Zenith in Paris, France, the 34-year-old will look to make his first steps towards a shot at the promotion’s championship belt.
Having impressed fans across the globe with his performances in Cage Warriors and ACB, Garnett looked destined to make it to the pinnacle of the sport. However, a chain of events, including a broken jaw on fight week prior to a scheduled contest in Brave, left him stuck on the shelf.
Dean Garnett is passionate about giving back to the community
During his time away from competition, the fighter has dedicated his time to helping others, running a post-16 programme which gives students the opportunity to work towards a B-Tech. Through this, he’s helped young people with various difficulties develop their skills and focus their attention on a positive goal.
In addition, he trains UFC superstar Mo Mokaev, who looks likely to become the youngest champion in the promotion’s history. And Garnett attributes his enhanced understanding of the game to the work he’s done with his students.
He claimed: “Going back five years, Muhammad Mokaev, Liam McCraken and Marlon Jones, those types of guys, who are absolute phenoms, were only young kids. So, I’ve been on a journey with them, bringing them from the amateur game and seeing them grow.
“Being in that environment in the gym as a coach, you’re being a problem solver. There’s a big team at Aspire; there’s a lot of quality there, right down to the juniors. That definitely evolves your understanding of the sport and your tactical awareness. But we’ll find out Sunday if that’s the truth.”
While admitting that his upcoming contest has brought him back to life, the Brit is more than aware of the challenge that stands in front of him.
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Dean Garnett discusses his fight at Hexagone MMA 6
In his upcoming outing, Garnett collides with Frenchman, Miguel Haro. But despite giving away home advantage, the Scouser believes he’ll pass the test with flying colours.
He said: “He’s been around the scene a long time like I have. Like me, he’s a lifelong martial artist. I’m expecting a good test, and that’s what I’m after, to be honest. He’s well-rounded as well, but I do expect to get him done.
“You’re going to see the same old aggressive Dean Garnett. I’m going to be looking to finish him on the feet. I’ll see what his wrestling is like, what his ground game is like. I’ll get him out of there as soon as I can, to be honest.”
While the seasoned veteran is far too intellectual to take his eye off the ball, he’s willing to admit that he’s hoping to secure a shot at the Hexagone MMA world title.
“I’ve got a two-fight deal with those guys; they seem like a good promotion to be with right now. They’re ambitious. DAZN is streaming the fight, so get this one out of the way, and I’ll look towards a five-round fight for the title.”
And when asked about a potential card in Liverpool co-headlined by himself and Chris Fishgold, with a twinkle in his eye, he responded: “Who knows? That would be very interesting.”
While Garnett remains dedicated to his stable of fighters, his itch to compete remains unscratched. Therefore, on Sunday night, he’ll look to remind the world why he’s held in such high regard.
Featured Image Credit: Hexagone MMA