AFC II Fighter/CFL Player Justin Shaw Speaks With Saanich News

Victoria B.C.'s Justin Shaw may currently be 0-0 in MMA, but this linebacker and defensive end for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, is quickly garnering the lion's share of the hype heading into this Saturday's Armageddon Fighting Championships II card. Little is known about Shaw's opponent, Nathan Williamsen (0-0) besides the fact that he's enormous at 6'5" - 265lbs, but the opportunity to see the local boy Shaw fight live is one that his many Victoria-based fans will surely jump at regardless of the match-up.

Justin Shaw shared some thoughts on the fight with Travis Peterson of Saanich News [Excerpt Below- click quote to read more]:

With five-time UFC competitor Kalib Starnes also on the bill, Shaw’s first fight can’t be considered a headliner. But there’s an undeniable buzz building around his muscle-bound, six-foot-four, 245 pound heavyweight-frame.
“I’m really excited but I'll have to remain calm, and in control. That’s how I play football and that’s how I’ll have to be when I fight.”

When Shaw enters the cage with six-foot-five, 260 pound Nathan Williamsen (also a relative newcomer to MMA), he doesn't anticipate using a lot of stand up.
“Striking, standing up, that’s a skill that takes a long time to use. Whereas with takedowns and wresting there’s going to be some crossover skills from football, especially in takedown,” Shaw said. “The footwork and particularly the explosiveness.
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AFC II will be easily the biggest B.C. MMA show so far in 2010, and arguably the most significant MMA event thus far in the province's history. Tickets are still available at Juan de Fuca Rec Centre, Island MMA, Sports Traders, Platinum Lounge in Mayfair Mall, Full Metal Jacket Racing in Duncan, online at www.armageddonfc.com, or by calling (250) 478-8384.