Interview with Craig Buchannan (April 2001)

This is an interview with Craig Buchannan the current IKKC world champion. He will be defending his title against John Hale (UKMTA, England) on April 14th. Thanks to Rick Bell and Chris Henandez for the interview.

Where were you born and raised?, Where do you currently live?
I was born in BellFlower, California and now live in Victorville, California

When and where did you start training?
I was 11 years old at a Kung-Fu studio in Ontario California. It was Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris that inspired me to start training,

What current fighters do you respect?
I respect all Fighters. It takes a lot of courage and nerve to step up into the ring.

Where do you train?
I currently train at a private school in Victorville California, but I have intentions on opening my own gym soon called the "Bullet Hole"

Do you train anything other than kickboxing?
I like to mountain bike, surf and enjoy rock climbing

How much do you train daily and weekly, How much do you change your training to prepare for a fight?? I train about 5 days a week about 3 - 4 hours a day.

Describe your typical training session?

Jumping Rope, Bag work, Sparring, Running and Weights

What is your record pro and amateur?
Am= 18-1
Pro= 8-2 (5Kos)

What was your most memorable fight? Why?
My rematch with Melvin Murray when I won the world title.

Who was your toughest opponent? Why?
Tomas from Poland my last fight because I finished the 5th round with a broken arm

What do you do for a living besides fighting?
I fight for a living although I am a part-time Lumberjack

You are the IKKC middleweight World Champ. Do you have any plans to fight for any other title, such as IKF, ISKA etc?
Yes, I want all of the titles. I will fight anyone anytime.

Is there anyone you would really like to fight? How do you think the fight would go?
I want to fight all of the formidable credible champs out there. I think in order to be the best you have got to beat the best.

Being that Kickboxing sanctioning bodies are so fragmented, if K-1 opens up to lighter weights would you have any desire to compete?
You bet, I hope it happens some day.

If you could change anything about the sport what would it be?
Make Amateurs wear protective gear such as head gear and shin guards. With 2min rounds and 1min breaks. This would let people distinguish the Pros from the Amateurs easier.

Do you have any comments to people who think US fighters are not as strong as their counterparts around the world?
Yes they are in for a rude awakening. The USA puts out a lot of good quality fighters.

Do you do any teaching or seminars?
Not yet, when my school opens I plan on it though.

Any other plans for the future?
Just to keep winning.

Any closing comments to your fans?
You guys are amazing. Thanks for the support.