Jordan Oliver, the 33-year-old wrestling sensation from Pennsylvania, is gearing up for his long-anticipated MMA debut at Bellator 298 on Friday night. Despite being a two-time national champion and a U.S. Olympic team member, Oliver’s aspiration to become an MMA fighter has never waned. He revealed that he had been preparing for this moment for nearly six years.
Oliver spoke to MMA Hook about his journey, saying, “I always had the intention of entering MMA. Though I was close to doing it in 2016, I needed to achieve certain goals in wrestling first, including making the U.S. Olympic team. The experience in MMA even helped me improve my wrestling skills, allowing me to get better with my spacing and timing.”
Now, at an age considered late to start a fighting career, Oliver is ready for this new challenge, with striking and various crafts adding to the wrestling he knows so well. He’s enthusiastic about taking on the best competition and strives to be the best in the world.
Oliver’s relationship with former UFC champion Daniel Cormier is something he cherishes. Both men connected at Oklahoma State under the guidance of legendary coach John Smith. Oliver refers to Cormier as his ‘big brother’ and sees him as his primary inspiration. Cormier, who also debuted in MMA in his 30s and went on to win titles in two weight classes, has always been supportive of Oliver’s ambitions.
Oliver expressed his admiration for Cormier’s path, stating, “Watching DC and learning from him has been hugely inspirational for me. But as his friend and little brother, I aim to surpass what he’s achieved. He created the blueprint, and now it’s my turn to build on that and achieve even more.”
Although all eyes are on Oliver for his Bellator debut, he remains unfazed by the attention. He’s used to pressure and welcomes it, knowing that nobody will set a higher standard for him than himself. He expressed his excitement about the high expectations, saying, “I thrive under pressure. It’s something I’ve faced my entire life. If there’s a target on my back, great. My expectations are high, and I want to put on a performance. I always want to be the crowd favorite. I open the door to pressure and invite it in.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword Jordan Oliver
When is Jordan Oliver making his MMA debut?
Jordan Oliver is making his MMA debut on Friday night at Bellator 298.
Who has been a significant mentor and inspiration for Jordan Oliver in his transition to MMA?
Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier has been a friend, mentor, and significant inspiration for Jordan Oliver as he transitions to MMA.
What was Oliver’s background before deciding to pursue a career in MMA?
Oliver is a two-time national champion wrestler and a U.S. Olympic team member. He has spent most of his life on the wrestling mats, striving to become the best in the world.
How has Oliver been preparing for his MMA debut?
Oliver has been preparing for his MMA debut for nearly six years, and he even credits some MMA training as an extra weapon that helped him become a better wrestler.
How does Oliver feel about the attention and pressure leading up to his debut?
Oliver is unfazed by the attention and pressure leading up to his debut. He welcomes high expectations and sees pressure as something that has always been beneficial in his life.
Did Oliver and Cormier have any connection before MMA?
Yes, Oliver and Cormier both wrestled at Oklahoma State and connected there under the legendary coach John Smith. Oliver refers to Cormier as his ‘big brother’ and credits him as a major inspiration in his career.
More about fokus keyword Jordan Oliver
- Bellator 298
- Jordan Oliver’s Wrestling Profile
- Daniel Cormier’s UFC Profile
- Oklahoma State Wrestling
