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James Gallagher defeated James Gonzalez in August for his first win since October 2020
Irish featherweight James Gallagher is relishing the opportunity to fight in his home country as he prepares to take on Leandro Higo at Bellator 302 in Belfast.
He said it was “special” to be fighting in Belfast, adding: “I feel good, I'm happy to be home and I'm excited to be fighting in front of my family and friends.”
“There's nothing like fighting at home,” Gallagher told BBC Sport.
“I can't wait to get in there, I love these high-pressure situations.” [in the cage] Being able to work through the chaos and just be stoic and calm and think in the moment. ”
“I know what I’m capable of.”
image source, david fitzgerald
Gallagher spent nearly two years outside the cage due to injury after losing to Patchy Mix in 2021.
Gallagher lost the fight to Patchy Mix in 2021 and subsequently spent nearly two years outside the cage due to injury.
The Strabane native required thumb surgery and was forced to cancel a match against Brett Johns before injuring his knee and pulling out of last March's match against Higo.
He believes his move to Thailand and his time on the sidelines helped prepare him physically and mentally for the match.
“It's paradise [in Thailand]sunshine, beaches, world-class training and world-class facilities, everything you need under one roof – you couldn't ask for a better situation,” added Gallagher.
“It was very difficult. [with injuries] But that's why I'm so positive.
“I know what I'm capable of, I know where my mind is going and what I can come out of, so I'm not afraid of anything.'' You can handle anything that comes your way.
“I have to prove to myself that I can do difficult things and nothing will get in my way.”
“I want to be a world champion”
When asked about the possibility of eventually facing Higo, who has moved down to featherweight, Gallagher predicted a first-round rear-naked choke victory.
Higo, a 35-year-old Brazilian, is undefeated in 28 fights, but Gallagher remains unfazed by his opponent's record.
“I feel like a winner,” he laughed. “I don't have any feelings towards him. I just show up to the venue feeling the best version of myself and that's all I have to do, enjoy the moment and enjoy the energy of the crowd. You just have to feel it and go in and hammer it into his head.”
“I'm a young veteran on my second run, but that break did great things for me. I was too young then and my body wasn't mature enough. But now I've grown up and competed. I’m looking forward to doing it.”
The 13th career win for Gallagher makes him the next in line to challenge for the featherweight belt currently held by Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire, and he has his sights set firmly on that ambition.
“I want to be world champion and I'm going to make that happen. The world title is for me,” he added.
