Striegl raves about better training camp for UFC return

MANILA, Philippines – There are no recriminations for Filipino mixed martial arts fighter Mark Striegl.

In Peoria, Arizona to prepare for his return to the octagon on February 20 against American Chas Skelly in a featherweight bout in UFC Fight Night 180, Striegl feels the conditions are much better this time around as opposed to his UFC debut in October 17, 2020 where 

Russian fighter Said Nurmagomedov knocked him out in the first round. 

“I was with a new team, didn’t have the benefit of a proper training camp, and didn’t have anyone in my corner,” said Striegl. “It is what it is. I am not blaming anyone. It is a huge learning curve for me. But now, it’s better.”

Striegl is currently at George Castro’s MMA Lab in Peoria, Arizona where he has been training since January 3. 

“There is a huge advantage coming in early to the United States where I get to train in one place as opposed to moving around in Manila because of the pandemic protocols,” explained Striegl. 

“Plus, I get to train under a former MMA fighter in George himself,” added Mark.

Castro mostly fought in the World Fighting Federation and posted a 3-2 record with one no contest. 

“Another plus is I work out and train with Bryce Meredith who is a four-time US NCAA All-American in wrestling. When you work with high level training partners, it really increases your learning and confidence.”

Meredith, who is more known as a freestyle wrestler, recently entered the realm of mixed martial arts where he won his first fight against Steven Merrill with a first round technical knockout at the Legacy Fighting Alliance. 

“It’s all camp training and working out then rest,” summed up Striegl. “It allows me to really focus and prepare. Some fighters have the benefit of several months of training, but we take what is given to us and make the most out of the opportunity.”

“I am super excited about this fight,” enthused Striegl. “I have signed a contract for the fight. Oddly enough, Chas and I have the same professional fight record of 18-3-0 (wins-loss-draws). I am definitely excited and gunning for my first win.”

The Mark Striegl-Chas Skelly fight will be shown live on Premier Sports on Skycable and Cignal as well as the TapGo streaming application.