‘I’m gonna do the country proud’: Rising star Tom Breese relishing the spotlight at UFC 199

TOM Breese has moved his life to Montreal to give himself the best possible chance of success in the UFC.

And the Brummie says he’s progressing nicely as he gets ready for his fourth fight in the Octagon.

Breese chatted to SunSport at the UFC 199 media day and explained how his passion for each of the various fighting arts is helping him to progress as he looks to climb the ranks of the UFC’s welterweight division.

“There’s times when I wish I would have been a boxer,” he admitted.

“There’s times I wish I would have been a jiu jitsu guy. There’s times I wish I was a wrestler, because I competed in all aspects.

“I’m a mixed martial artist. I love every aspect and that’s why I do this – to be well-rounded and have a passion for everything.”

Breese faces the sternest test of his young career on Saturday night against fellow prospect Sean Strickland, who is looking to make a splash by handing Breese his first professional defeat.

“He’s a tough guy,” explained Breese.

“It’s gonna be a great test and I look forward to passing that test on Saturday.

“I’ve trained hard for the stylistic matchup, I’ve learned a lot in camp and I look to learn from the test and reach new levels.

“It feels like a good step up (in opposition). It’s gonna be good. I’m looking forward and I’m ready to rumble.”

Breese’s performances to date and growing reputation as a potential star of the future has seen him land the featured preliminary bout spot on UFC Fight Pass this weekend.

And the Brit says he welcomes the increased spotlight as he looks to take his career to the next level.

“It’s great exposure,” he said.

“It’s gonna get my name out there more. Hopefully people will enjoy watching me fight and I can put on great performances for all the people watching.”

And despite now living in Montreal full-time, Breese remains true to his Brummie roots and plans on entertaining all his friends and family back home with a performance to remember on Saturday night.

“I love home, I miss home, but I’m out here trying to become a better mixed martial artist and training with the best,” he said.

“I want to perform for the British fans and especially the Brummies. I miss Birmingham.

“Tune in, I’m gonna do the country proud.”

Tom Breese takes on Sean Strickland in the featured preliminary bout at UFC 199 on UFC Fight Pass. Watch the fight live on http://ufcfightpass.com