For Legend FC Fighter Xian Ji, “MMA is More than a Job… It is About a Way of Living”

Last month, Chinese promotion Legend FC announced deals that would allow its fights to be shown worldwide on such outlets as AXN Television throughout Asia, Europe and Latin America, ESPN International in Australia and New Zealand, as well as in North America on the Drama Fever and Hulu websites.

Among the native Chinese fighters that will benefit from this worldwide exposure is bantamweight-up and-comer “The Executioner” Xian Ji.

For Xian, the opportunity to have his fights broadcast the world over is another big step in his growing career.

“Legend is the highest MMA platform in the Asia-Pacific region (and) to be able to compete there as a Chinese fighter is a dream come true,” he said. “To be shown on platforms like AXN and ESPN really makes me feel like an international fighter, and this is what all Chinese fighters hope to achieve.”

After starting his career with eight straight wins, Xian had a rollercoaster year in 2012 where he alternated wins and losses after winning his first two fights of the year.

“I have both joy and regret looking back at 2012,” said Xian. “I am grateful to have fought in six fights that year – four of which in the featherweight division and two of which in bantamweight. Those fights allowed me to gain a lot of experience.

“I realize being in so many fights has taken a toll on my body. I will spend 2013 improving my form, hopefully ending the year with no losses or regrets.”

Xian told MMAWeekly.com that his displeasure extended to his last fight at Legend 10, where he defeated Ruel Catalan, but not without some pre-fight problems.

“This fight makes me think back in regret,” he said. “I was not able to pass the weigh-in and have prepared myself to get disqualified. Thankfully Catalan agreed to have the match. Despite coming out victorious, I do not have the usual feelings of joy after winning.”

Xian is looking forward to 2013 not only to attempt to capture a championship in Legend, but to also use his new international platform to help spread the word about Chinese MMA worldwide.

“I hope that more Chinese people can focus on MMA, because in there you will find many Chinese warriors holding on to their dreams, they struggle for their dreams and fight for their dreams,” said Xian. “MMA is more than a job for me; it is a part of my life that will always stay with me. It is not merely about being the defeat or defeated, it is about a way of living.

“As a Legend fighter, I’ve had the pleasure of fighting fighters from all over the Asia-pacific. I’ve had my share of wins and losses, but I’ve learned not to judge a fighter according to his record. All the blood and sweat has made us all warriors worthy of respect. As a professional fighter, I would like to educate more people on the sport of MMA and help grow the sport. Thank you for your support!”

(Photo courtesy of Legend FC)