What’s going through your mind when you’re fighting? Are you ever afraid?
During a fight, I'm focused on executing my strategy to win. Stress is inevitably present, but I channel it into positive energy. Stepping into the octagon is just a huge adrenaline rush, it keeps me on my toes to navigate all the various threats like punches, kicks, wrestling moves, and submission attempts.
What does it feel like to win?
I'm a competitor, I love to win. Each victory is an achievement and rewards weeks of a long and intense grind. My last fight was in Paris, at home, in front of French fans — the atmosphere was electric. It gave me an extra boost of energy and pride. Winning is just the best feeling in the world.
Athletes and fighters are in many ways like artists. And for many artists, once they’ve finished a big show feel a sense of doom and ask themselves, “What’s next?” What does that experience look like for you after a big fight?
After a big fight, there is obviously a time of euphoria, but it also can veer into despair on bad days… it depends. The fight game is cruel. There are only two in the octagon and there are only two possible outcomes: winning or losing. I do not really feel the sense of doom that some artists may experience. I’m never asking myself, “What’s next?” because I have only one objective in mind, and it is to get the world heavyweight title. Maybe once I get it, this feeling will come.
Tell me about your fashion sense.
I love fashion, it’s kind of my thing. I'm quite particular about my clothing choices, nothing is left to chance. My style reflects my personality — relaxed and outsized, yet elegant, like me! I appreciate brands that combine comfort and style. I like clothing that is unique with some “wow” effect. I like mixing vintage stuff with more modern cuts.
If you weren’t an MMA fighter, what other career could you see yourself doing?
Probably I’d do something else in sports like soccer or basketball. I’ve always known I’d do something with my body. I like to perform. I would also love to be a Hollywood movie star one day. I love cinema, playing roles, and getting into characters.