By Mike Calimbas, Editor/Partner
YREKA, CA, April 8, 2013 – “We both have something to prove,” says D.J. “Da Protege” Linderman ahead of his clash with Robert Drysdale at Legacy Fighting Championship 19. The two meet in the co-main event of the event scheduled or the Allen Event Center in Texas and LIVE on AXS TV this Friday Night.
With 17 fights worth of experience now behind him, Linderman will be the most experienced opponent yet for the much-ballyhooed top prospect and grappling world champion out of Las Vegas yet he’s not looking to be merely somebody else’s test. He’s looking to pass his own and push own career ahead too.
Headed into his last fight with a three-fight winning streak, D.J. had big plans to put on a big showing against Anthony “Rumble” Johnson before he succumbed to the first knockout loss of his career against the UFC veteran. It’s not a loss that sits well with him and he’s eager to get back in the win column to finally put it behind him unless and until they meet again.
“I want to prove that Anthony Johnson fight (WSOF 1, November 2012) was a fluke. Then I want to fight 4 more times this year and own a Legacy FC title.”
Beginning his MMA career at 261 lbs. and now fighting at the light heavyweight limit of 205 lbs. D.J. says that hard work has been his focus as of late, and it’s all leading up to this Friday night.
“I’m pretty laid back but there are days where I use want this fight to happen now. But I also know what I have to do and that is to be mentally ready when the time comes so that means being patient. I think this matchup is great, and Drysdale is great fight for me. I’ve been working a lot of ground defense with great guys like Adam Dobie from Cedar Creek MMA, wrestlers like Byle Keeney, and then doing more striking at 4OZ Fight Club in Houston. Training in the thick air in Smithville, TX has helped too.”
“Obviously this is a jits guy vs. a striker type of fight but at the end of the day this is an MMA match. I’m looking for the KO. Then I hope World Series gives me another big fight to redeem myself. Drysdale I’m coming for you!”
