Promotional free agent Jack Grant is looking for an extremely active 2024 following a successful return to the cage at BRAVE CF 80, bringing his lengthy lay off from the sport to a victorious end.
After an impressive first round victory against Nathan Jones at Bellator 267, Grant found himself on the sidelines for an extended period of time; suffering from a reoccurring neck injury and then a freak accident, whilst having a friendly wrestle with his brother, led to the two falling down the stairs.
The incident caused the Grimsby man to damage his ACL, PCL and meniscus. Grant admitted he struggled with the time away from the sport and the inevitable questions surrounding retirement that then ensued.
“It was tough for mentally. People asking me if I’m retired when I’m in my prime. In some ways it’s been beneficial as I used the time to get my body right come fight night. I just knew how much I wanted to be there. It was great to be back.”
Grant made his long awaited and highly anticipated return to the cage at BRAVE CF 80, against Ahmed Labban. The Brit revelled in the opportunity to be back on the big stage and even claimed a bit of BRAVE history in the process, securing the latest ever submission victory in the promotion- just one second before the final bell!
“I was made up to be back. It’s been tough for me being out so long and it was even better getting straight back on a major promotion against a highly ranked opponent.
“(It was) Unreal to get the cage time in. Plus a record breaking finish on a show like BRAVE. Honestly the fight mostly played out as expected. I knew what made him dangerous would get him in trouble with me. I just had to stay patient.”
Grant finds himself in an interesting position, currently exploring his free agency options. With more promotions than ever before thriving around the globe, the 31-year-old is keeping his options open.
“Honestly I’d love to fight in the UFC, however MMA now is just continuing to grow at such a fast pace! These other shows are unbelievable and I’m more than happy to fight for them. I just love fighting and my goals are to beat the best guys on the best stages. (We) Will see what’s next soon."
2024 will mark Grant’s 12 year in the sport, as a professional. Throughout that time, he has witnessed first hand how the sport has developed at an incredible rate; especially in the UK.
“(The) sport is changing all the time, every year it just seems to be getting bigger and better. We’ve got world class fighters in the UK carrying major world titles, it’s great to see. I just look forward to seeing the momentum continue.”
Eager to make up for lost time, the 26 fight veteran will be staying fit and prepared in order to take any opportunity he’s interested in heading into 2024.
“I’m staying ready. I'm ready to fight soon as (possible).
“I’d like to have four, maybe five fights. I guess it depends on the body, but if my body is good, I’m going to be active!
“I’m going to be fighting for major promotions, competing in tournaments, or for world titles. I’ve just had a great performance in my return fight. Let's see what opportunities are out there!”
