Home Categories Miscellaneous FLD Exclusive with Brian Foster: "Martial arts have changed me."
FLD Exclusive with Brian Foster: "Martial arts have changed me."
Written by Stephanie Pittman   
Monday, 30 November 2009 16:36
This week at FightLockdown, our own Stephanie Pittman managed to steal some time from rising WW talent, Brian Foster. Foster recently defeated Brock Larson at UFC 105, consequently sending the former WEC WW contender packing from the UFC. In this interview, Foster was kind enough to answer the questions of his fans regarding his maturation as a fighter, his influences, the next type of opponent he'd like to face-off against, and his future in the UFC. Check it out, after the jump!



Stephanie Pittman: First off, congratulations on your recent win against a tough opponent, Brock Larson. Were you surprised at all by how you managed to dominate him?

Brian Foster (BF): “Not at all! We knew going into the fight how dangerous he was, and as long as I stuck to the game-plan, I would dominate with my striking.”


(SP): Were there any aspects of your performance against Larson that you weren't happy with?

(BF): “The penalties. I hate penalties, even when I’m not the one being penalized. They’re not exciting and I like non-stop action.”


(SP): You initially began your professional MMA career as a means of controlling your anger, following the passing of your brother. Do you still fight in order to release anger, or have martial arts and time changed your demeanor inside the cage?

(BF): “Martial arts have changed me, it's made me a more humble and respectful individual. My Brother’s death did make me a very angry person, so very shortly after it happened, I started training and used the physical stress of training to cancel out the emotional pain caused by his death. I like to think he is very proud of what I have accomplished since his passing.”


(SP): What is it like to train with the H.I.T. Squad and with champions like Matt Hughes and Robbie Lawler?

(BF): “It's great, these guys know what it’s like to mix it up on a different level and with their knowledge, I will continue to make a statement in the UFC. I couldn't ask for better coaches!”


(SP): You already have an impressive record of 17-4, what fight would you say you learned the most from?

(BF): “14-4 and 1-1 in the UFC. I always say I learn the most from my last loss, I say that because if you do not figure out how you were beaten, you're soon to be defeated again. Gotta learn from your mistakes!”


(SP): A lot of fighters have unique superstitions, do you have any?

(BF): “I used to, now I try and stay relaxed and focus on the game-plan. I take a photo of my Brother with me to every fight, some might consider that a superstition.”


(SP): Are there any fighters who have impacted your fighting style by watching them as a fan? If so, who?

(BF): “Fedor Emelianenko. I have always loved his style, he commits to his punches and in this sport it only takes one!”


(SP): You were originally scheduled to fight Paul Daley at UFC 103. Seeing as he's the type of fighter who you wouldn't have to worry about taking you down, is that a fight you're still interested in having some day?

(BF): “I would definitely love a stand-up fighter as my next opponent. It would be awesome to not have to worry about being taken down, but I think that even if I fight a stand-up guy, he'll try and take me down when he figures out I’m better!”


(SP): So what is next for Brian Foster? Has the UFC approached you about your next opponent, or is there someone in particular that you'd like to take on?

(BF): “Doesn't really matter who. I entered into this organization to fight the best and I’m sure the UFC will deliver me a great matchup soon.”


(SP): FightLockdown.com would like to thank you for doing this interview with us. We wish you all the best in your career. Is there anything you would like to say to your fans, or any shout-outs to your sponsors?

(BF): “My hometown fans always like my quotes: "Fight with your heart and your hands will follow" and "Think with your head and feel with your heart, set big goals, and finish what you start." Also, I would like to thank the H.I.T Squad and Marc Fiore for helping me prepare for my fights. Thank you to my family, friends, and fans.”