JUST Grind's Kevin Thompson is deep into prep for a BKB British title shot. Thompson has been sparring fifteen rounds in single sessions ahead of his clash with Mason Shaw and feels that he is in great condition.

“I’m feeling really good at the minute”

The bout will be another big test for Thompson, in his last bout, he dared to be great against former UFC fighter, Goran Reljic. Thompson took the light heavyweight world title fight on less than a week’s notice, he came up short but put in an impressive performance.

“Last time I took my fight on three days’ notice against a world class fighter, this time around I’ve been able to put in a full fight camp and I’m feeling really good going into the fight.”

The niche sport of Bareknuckle Boxing is growing in reach, the stars will be out on November 17. Billy Joe Saunders, former WBA middleweight champion, will be in attendance as well as former IBF cruiserweight world champion, Enzo Macarinelli. However, Thompson insists he is unphased by the higher profile bouts.

“In truth, once you get in there the venue and the crowd won’t be a massive factor. There’s always pressure and in the lead up but I’ve been in there enough times to know how to deal with the last few hours leading up to the fight.”

Although the BKB events have become a lofty affair, with venues like the O2 in London and the Liverpool Echo, Thompson is a homegrown fighter. Kevin now fights full time out of Just Grind MMA and Fitness Centre in St John’s Court, Workington.

“I’ve always had a good relationship with the various gyms in West Cumbria. I’ve definitely benefitted from having some really good sparring for this camp with the lads from Just Grind and others and I’m grateful to every one of them.”

An army of Cumbrian fans will be making the trip down to London to watch Kevin on November 17. Fan support has provided a well of strength for him through a tough camp.

“Winning the BKB British title and bringing it back home is all the motivation I need.”