Matt Hobar Takes Aim at Legacy FC Bantamweight Championship

Following his first loss this past September, Legacy FC bantamweight Matt “Crowbar” Hobar has rebounded with two straight victories, raising his record to 7-1 and earning a shot at the promotion’s 135-pound title this Friday.

“The rematch with (Steven) Peterson (in December) after I hurt my arm against him (in September), I decided to stay standing that whole fight because I knew I had better stand-up, so it was a different game plan than what I’m used to, but it worked out to my advantage,” said Hobar.

“My last fight in April with Nelson Salas, I was sure it was going to be a ground fight, because I felt like my ground was just way better than his, but he was a tough guy, hard to finish. So the past couple fights have been tough for me and a definite step up in competition.”

Hobar feels that while Salas might not be the best fighter he’s faced, the bout gave him a good idea of where he’s at heading into Friday’s title fight.

“I don’t think he’s the toughest guy, but he’s good in certain areas and beat the guy I’m fighting for the belt, so it kind of gives me a gauge on what Angel (Huerta) brings to the table,” Hobar told MMAWeekly.com.

At Legacy 21, Hobar will be in a clash of styles as he looks to match his ground game against Huerta’s stand-up in Houston, and broadcast live on AXS TV.

“I know he’s got world-class striking, but he’s not got ground game to show, and that’s where I’m going to be able to beat him,” said Hobar of the 6-1 Huerta. “I’m also going to be in his face (standing), close the distance and not give him any chance to get strikes through.”

Fighting for a championship is a big step for Hobar in two ways. Not only will it affect his prep for the fight, but it also will help determine where he goes in the sport in the future.

“It definitely factors in,” he said. “I’ve got to get my cardio up to the best it’s ever been. I’ve got to keep my weight cut really smooth so it doesn’t affect my cardio.

“I don’t feel any pressure; I feel a lot of motivation to get this title. If I win this title, it will definitely open up a lot opportunities to further my career in MMA.”

Be sure to Like MMAWeekly.com on Facebook and Follow @MMAWeeklycom on Twitter.