Photo courtesy of Raposo's Instagram Account
Mitch Raposo looks to add another finish to his record at Cage Titans 45
On August 24, Mitch Raposo will look to build off his impressive professional debut when he takes on Raymond Yanez at Cage Titans 45. Raposo made his professional debut at Cage Titans 43 after an impressive amateur career and he earned his first ever finish, submitting Rob Fuller by arm triangle choke in the first round. I had the opportunity to ask the up and coming bantamweight ahead of his upcoming fight.
Previously we’ve discussed you turning pro and you’ve always told me that is where you will shine and clearly that was the case in your debut. Talk to me about the feeling about the dream becoming a reality, differences you felt in there, and if there was anything different that you didn’t expect?
“I don’t think it really had much to do with being a pro besides the elbows. I just think it was the experience that I finally had as an amateur with six fights. My killer instinct has always been there, but I just needed to get comfortable and loosen up in there. It won’t be any different this fight.”
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You were able to get the first finish of your career (amateur as well). What was that feeling like?
“Such a great feeling. I always knew what I was capable of. It felt so good to just be in and out. I have the confidence in my gas tank to push the pace, so it was good to be in and out.”
Did you feel a difference at bantamweight?
“Not really, I think I definitely feel it more now. At the time it was only three months. Now I’ve been in this lifting program for about six months and I can really feel it. August 24, I’m looking forward to the improvements. I’m walking around at 150 (pounds) during training camp and I’m a lean guy, so I’m definitely anticipating a difference coming into this one.”
Your last couple of fights have been against fighters with not as impressive records and your upcoming fight is against someone who has a record of 5-14. Are you happy with your level of competition?
“I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily happy. I know where my skill level is at. This is my second pro fight and I’m fighting a guy with 20 pro fights, so honestly this fight makes sense. I’m going to keep building my career and soon enough I’ll be taking out the next level of guys.”
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What are your keys to victory against Yanez and how do you win?
“My speed. I’m going to be too explosive, too fast, and I have way too many weapons for this guy. He isn’t going to know where he’s getting hit from, and on the ground I don’t think many people can hang with my top game. It’ll be a finish, either on the feet or on the ground.”
I know you have a plan for after this fight, what is next for you after this one?
“November 2, Cage Titans is putting on another show, so I’ll be back. I’ll take another step moving forward in my career and move towards the goal, which is to one day be the best in the world.”
