He easily mowed down opponents in amateurs (only one defeat out of fifteen duels) and at the end of last year he faced a professional for the first time. Even here, the twenty-one-year-old Czech talent did not disappoint. And even though Štěpán is considered one of the most gifted domestic fighters, humility still comes first. He himself is very well aware that the road to the top of his career is still far away. The next important step, however, will be a clash with the Georgian Jansug Gogia, who has been shooting among the pros for some time.
You have a second match between the professionals, so the stress of the transition from the amateurs has already subsided?
I tried to suppress the stress of the transition between pro wrestlers as much as possible from the first pro match, I just focus on the match in front of me, so I would say yes.
Although your career is still at the beginning, do you already have something you want to achieve?
To advance to the very perfection of the fight with every match and training. Be a better version of yourself and achieve great victories. I would like to be and I try to be a role model, especially for myself.
What do you think about the fact that many consider you one of the greatest Czech talents?
Thanks to everyone who thinks so. It is very daring, and if I have gained their perception with my performances, then of course I am pleased.
This is also why you may be under pressure. After that, how difficult is it to please these people?
You rarely thank people, but I always try to give a piece of myself and give it added value, so I believe that I always give them some feedback. And as for the coaches, I always want to show them the best light. If they are proud, I will be happy.
Are your training partners, for example elite fighters Patrik Kincl or David Dvořák, the right motivation?
I think the answer is clear because it is and has always been one of the biggest motivations and engines in my career. I am grateful to them for everything and I firmly believe that I will give them joy with my performances and actions. Coaches are the best for me. Patrik and Lukáš Chotěnovský will now go into my corner.
What are your future prospects? Are you heading abroad?
It’s hard to say where one will land in the end, anyway, I’m almost certain that I’ll wrestle a few times abroad. If it will be more than at home, who knows.
He mentions that a fighter these days doesn’t just have to be good in the cage, but outside of it as well. How are you doing in this regard?
It’s hard to judge for yourself, but I’ve already penetrated the world of YouTube and I’d say I’m quite active on Instagram. It is definitely an integral part of this sport. And am I a good marketing product? To be honest, yes. I’d say I just have it in me.
Is it hard to get any sponsors at such a young age?
I’ve had a few loyal people behind me for quite some time, for that I’m very grateful and I hope they’ll stay by my side throughout my career. However, I would like to sign some cooperation regarding car rental. I am quite a lot on the road between Hradec Králové and Prague, and a car would certainly be useful for me, so hopefully something will be found soon.
Most fighters have a job/school in addition to MMA. How are you?
I’m in college, and since I have the opportunity to be at a private college, I’m doing pretty well.
Tags: MMA great Czech talent hunting mission champion Kincl drive battle
