Phil De Fries is set to defend his KSW heavyweight title against Marcin Wójcik at KSW 117. In a candid interview, De Fries revealed the significant impact of anxiety on his life and career. He described a period where daily life was difficult to manage, characterized by constant worry and fear. He found relief through professional medical help, including medication, which he believes has been instrumental in his improved well-being and subsequent success in the cage.
The reigning KSW heavyweight champion, embarking on his 14th title defense, acknowledged Wójcik as a formidable opponent, referring to him as a “knockout machine.” This recognition led De Fries to adjust his training camp, focusing on sparring partners who specifically mirrored Wójcik’s physical attributes and fighting style.
De Fries spoke openly about the debilitating effects of his anxiety, which made everyday activities feel overwhelming. He explained that seeking professional help and starting medication provided a turning point, alleviating his anxiety and significantly improving his quality of life. He noted that this period of recovery coincided with a remarkable win streak, making him hesitant to discontinue his treatment.
He elaborated on how, prior to treatment, his performance was driven by instinct rather than strategic thinking. Now, he feels a greater sense of calm and clarity within the octagon, allowing him to learn and grow from his experiences. This newfound ability to enjoy the fight week and fight night atmosphere suggests that De Fries believes his best years are still ahead of him.
Despite facing a powerful and dynamic challenger in Wójcik, De Fries remains the dominant figure in the KSW heavyweight division.
KSW 117 is scheduled for April 18 at COS Torwar in Warsaw, Poland. The event features a stacked card, including the welterweight title bout between Adrian Bartosiński and Andrzej Grzebyk, and the heavyweight championship clash of De Fries and Wójcik. Other notable fights include Salahdine Parnasse vs. Marian Ziółkowski, Artur Szpilka vs. Errol Zimmerman, and a middleweight title fight contested by Paweł Pawlak and Mamed Khalidov.