Any EFC Africa fan will tell you that Ekurhuleni’s JP Kruger is a mixed martial arts fighter on the rise.<\/p>\n
This redheaded, fierce fighter will face Tumelo Maphutha on August 15, in the main bout of EFC Africa 22, at Carnival City.<\/p>
If Kruger wins, he will be a middleweight title contender.<\/p>\n
“The Lord Jesus has blessed me,” he said.<\/p>
He has been hard at work in preparation for the fight, and he recently spent two weeks training in Thailand.<\/p>\n
“Thailand was awesome, I got to spar with the best of the best there,” he said.<\/p>\n
He also got to work with people who specialise in Muay Thai and wrestling.<\/p>\n
Even though a win will earn the fighter known as “Tinkerbell” a title shot, he doesn’t want to look too far ahead.<\/p>\n
“Every fight needs an important win,” said Kruger.<\/p>\n
“I have to look at this fight on its own. My focus is on this fight.”<\/p>\n
He is not underestimating his opponent.<\/p>\n
“He’s a big guy, and his stand-up work is strong,” said the local fighter with the kickboxing background.<\/p>\n
Kruger thanked everybody around him.<\/p>\n
“I’d like to thank XKT and Rio Grappling (trainers),” he said.<\/p>\n
“Also want to thank my lady, my family and friends.”<\/p>\n