In the last year Simon Marcus has established himself as arguably the best Muay Thai fighter in North America, this Friday at Lion Fight 9 he will be fighting Artem Levin for the Lion Fight light heavyweight title. The winner between Marcus and Levin will be regarded as the best light heavyweight in the world. Simon Marcus took some time from his busy schedule to talk to Muay Thai Authority about the upcoming fight with Artem Levin.

MTA: You have a big fight coming up with Artem Levin at Lion Fight 9. How happy are you that this fight is finally happening?

Simon: I’m very happy to be getting this fight and opportunity. For me there is nothing more important in my fight career than to be established as the best fighter in the world and this is my chance to do so.

MTA: Has training for this fight changed at all from your previous bouts?

Simon: Yes, my training has changed but not by much. I would just say I have been pushing myself harder and practicing more to make sure that I am 100% for this fight.

MTA: If you had to pick on advantage Artem might possess, what would you say it is?

Simon: The one advantage Artem may have is being more experienced than myself. But that has never been a problem in my fight career before. I believe when you have a strong foundation there are many ways to overcome a more experienced fighter.

MTA: You came into Las Vegas a little over a year ago and you were booed by the crowd, but with your performances you have converted many into fans. How does it feel knowing you have such a good following outside Toronto?

Simon: It is a good feeling to gain support by giving fans good entertainment and beautiful Muay Thai. But at the end of the day whether I am supported by fans or not I will still be there to do one thing and that is win.

MTA: Everyone always focuses about what’s going on in the ring, how has life changed for you outside the ring since your big breakout year?

Simon: Yes, life has changed for me. Last year I had the blessing of having a healthy baby boy and he has brought great joy to my life. Of course things change a bit when you have a child but other than that it has been pretty much the same. Still working hard to get better and living my dream of being number one.

MTA: Last year you did an interview with our buddy Anish Kapur and you said that after you beat Levin you would do a victory rap. Are we going to see you get on the mic and spit some lyrics after this fight?

Simon: Well I’m a man of my word so if see Anish I will honor that…lol.

MTA: This fight is going to be on AXS TV. Are you excited to get to fight in front of a live national audience, and does that motivate you at all to come out and make sure you put on a great fight?

Simon: Yes it is exciting to be able to perform in front of a national audience and gain more exposure for myself and for Muay Thai. But for this fight it wouldn’t matter to me if not a soul was watching because this is something I have to prove to myself.

MTA: Any words for Artem before the fight? It’s seems you to have a mutual respect for each other and there is no bad blood between you at all.

Simon: No I have no words for Artem, as you said I respect him as a fighter. And I am just focusing on myself leading up to this bout.

MTA: Any words for your supporters Simon?

Simon: Yes, I would like to thank everyone who has supported me thru the years and all who believe in me. I am focused and ready to gain victory in this upcoming battle. I would also like to send a message to all people that I have inspired that if you follow your heart you can live your dreams as long as you believe in yourself. Please keep this in mind as you tune in on March 15th….Love, Respect, Believe.

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