For Xian Ji, Being the Legend FC Champion Carries the Weight of a Nation

To become a champion is special for any athlete, but for Chinese bantamweight Xian “Executioner” Ji, taking the Legend FC crown on April 27 against Agustin Delarmino and bringing it back to his native homeland meant something more.

“To win the Legend belt was my ultimate dream as an MMA fighter,” said Xian. “It has been the goal of my training the last few years and the source of motivation to keep me going.

“I believe winning the Legend belt is the dream and goal of every MMA athlete in China. (Legend welterweight champion) Li Jingliang and I will be their example, to motivate them in times of struggle. Together we will play a lead role in promoting the development of MMA in China.”

Even though Xian is happy about becoming a champion, and even though he defeated Delarmino via submission in the first round, he is highly critical of his performance.

“This was a very tough fight,” Xian told MMAWeekly.com. “To be honest, I’m not very satisfied with my performance, and I will make up for the inadequacies in the future.”

Now that he is champion, don’t expect Xian to change the way he does business. In fact, he intends to use his new status to drive him to accomplish more.

“I will not change the way I approach fighting now that I am a champion,” he said. “Fighting is the profession I chose, it is the profession I love, and I will keep going as far as I can push my limits.

“Winning the Legend belt has actually brought me greater pressure, but it has also inspired me to make constant progress, to never settle. In this profession, it is all about strength and improving your skills.”

Looking forward to the remainder of the year, Xian hopes to remain champion and continue to spread the word of MMA throughout China and beyond.

“My goal for 2013 is to defend the Legend belt and keep my position as champion,” concluded Xian.

“I wish more Chinese people can pay more attention to ‘real’ martial arts events and help the growth of MMA in China. Thanks to all my friends and fans for supporting me, I will bring more exciting fights to you.”

Visit www.LegendFC.com for information on where Legend broadcasts are available and for information on replays of Legend FC 11 on Pay-Per-View, Video on Demand and Internet streaming.