WE Speak MMA
Fighting With Heart: The Rise Of Albanian MMA Fighter Elton Dedaj
From the streets of Albania to the training mats of New York, Elton Dedaj is writing his own path in the world of mixed martial arts. Training with Animals MMA in Yonkers, Dedaj competes in the 170-pound welterweight division. With a foundation built on discipline, resilience, and relentless self-belief, Dedaj is more than just a fighter. He is a symbol of heart and hustle. Starting his journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, he quickly fell in love with the grind and growth that MMA demands. Now sharpening his craft every day, Dedaj represents a new generation of fighters hungry to prove themselves inside the cage. With powerful motivation, a humble mindset, and a vision for greatness, the young Albanian continues to rise, one round at a time.
What inspired you to start training in combat sports?
Growing up in Albania, all the kids in the neighborhood were obsessed with WWE. We’d meet up to “fight,” and in our eyes, it was real. Eventually, it would turn into real fighting and get very competitive. When I moved to New York, the energy was the same, but then my younger cousins and I discovered the UFC. That’s when we realized what real fighting was. I fell in love with the sport around the age of 9 or 10 and never looked back.
Which discipline did you start with, and how has your style evolved?
I started with both BJJ and Muay Thai. Over time, I added wrestling, some unorthodox karate moves I picked up from different fighters, and really just adopted whatever I could. These days, I focus more on wrestling and improving my overall game.
How would you describe your fighting style in one sentence?
Relaxed yet sharp, and always seeking to stay creative.
Who are your biggest influences or role models in combat sports?
Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva, Conor McGregor—who influenced everyone at one point—Israel Adesanya, and Khabib. Honestly, too many to name. There’s inspiration in so many styles.
What’s been the toughest fight of your career so far, and why?
Definitely my Muay Thai fight against Aaron Perkins in December 2021. It was a five-round war, and I had to cut from 190 to 160 in three weeks, which made weight cutting a bigger challenge than the actual fight. Plus, he was a huge step up in competition and is now a professional kickboxer.
How do you mentally prepare before stepping into the ring or cage?
I cut out distractions and tap into my spiritual side. Fasting, visualizing, and meditating are a big part of how I prepare.
What’s your training schedule like during fight camp versus the off-season?
During fight camp, everything is elevated—volume, intensity, even how I eat and sleep. It’s all about priming the body for fight day. In the off-season, I slow it down, focus on learning new techniques, and just enjoy the process. I still train twice a day, 5–6 days a week, but the intensity drops to avoid injury and maintain consistency.
How important is diet and recovery in your routine?
They’re absolutely essential. A good diet makes weight cuts easier, and recovery is key for longevity. I’m in this sport for the long haul.
Have you ever had to overcome a major injury or setback? How did you bounce back?
I tore my MCL in June 2024. I had to accept the time off and let my body heal. Mentally, it was hard not being able to help my cousins who also fight, but it pushed me to find creative ways to support them and contribute to the team at Animals MMA. I was back fighting by October—just four months later.
What’s your go-to move or combination that opponents should fear?
I favor nothing. They should fear that.
Do you study your opponents before fights, or rely more on your instincts?
It’s a mix of both. I like to get a sense of their rhythm and movement, but every fight is its own moment. What you study may not matter once the cage door closes.
How do you handle nerves or pressure before a big match?
I visualize and allow myself to feel the butterflies leading up to the fight. On fight day, I go into deep meditation. When I come out, I’m relaxed and ready to go.
What’s one misconception people have about combat sports or fighters?
Some people think fighters are unintelligent and just enjoy violence. But in my experience, fighters are some of the most peaceful and intelligent people around. Elite fighters especially need strong emotional intelligence and deep understanding.
Which do you value more in a fight—technique, power, or heart? Why?
They all matter, but heart is the foundation. Technique and power can be trained. Heart can take you places beyond what seems humanly possible.
Is there a dream opponent or match you’d love to have in the future?
Right now, I’d love a fight with Mauricio Ruffy, a UFC prodigy. He’s around my size, fights at 155 and 170. I admire his style and would love the challenge. I think it would be a fan-favorite for anyone who appreciates technical MMA.
How do you balance the intensity of combat sports with your personal life?
There’s always time for personal life. If you train, eat, and recover with intention, you should approach your personal life with the same intentionality. No excuses.
How do you stay focused during a long, grueling round?
If I’m breathing, I’m alive. I’m in there. So I’m good.
How do you handle criticism, whether from coaches, fans, or media?
I try to keep an open mind. Even harsh criticism can hold valuable lessons.
How do you want to be remembered in the world of combat sports?
As someone who always set the new standard.
What advice would you give to young fighters just starting out?
If you really want it, be willing to let go of everything for it.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
Meet Tyreece Richards, a rising force in both MMA and boxing, known for his relentless pressure, knockout power, and unshakable drive. Trained out of CUBA MMA, Richards brings a well-rounded foundation built on years of Judo and Taekwondo, which has since evolved into a boxing-heavy style that overwhelms opponents both on the feet and on the ground. What began as a pursuit of self-defense has transformed into a full-fledged career fueled by passion, discipline, and a deep love for the fight game. Competing in both MMA and boxing, Richards is quickly making a name for himself as a dangerous and calculated finisher with a bright future ahead. Whether it’s in the cage or the ring, he shows up to dominate—and never backs down from a challenge.
What inspired you to start training in combat sports?
I started training for self-defense, and it evolved from there. When I was 9, I discovered the UFC and PRIDE FC on TV. At the time, I was already training in Judo and Taekwondo, which eventually led me to transition into MMA.
Which discipline did you start with, and how has your style evolved?
I began with Judo, then moved to Taekwondo to learn striking. Over time, my style has evolved into a boxing-heavy approach with strong ground-and-pound.
How would you describe your fighting style in one sentence?
Relentless pressure with knockout power.
Who are your biggest influences or role models in combat sports?
Juan Manuel Márquez, Nick Diaz, TJ Dillashaw, Anthony Pettis, and Jon Jones (though not exactly as a role model, haha).
What’s been the toughest fight of your career so far, and why?
Definitely my bout against Haris Moghal under Muay Thai K1 hybrid rules. He was an undefeated prospect with over 15 fights. I took the fight on a week’s notice after my MMA opponent dropped out. It was an absolute war.
How do you mentally prepare before stepping into the ring or cage?
At this point, I feel like I’m always mentally prepared. I focus on visualizing the best version of myself and avoid stressing over what my opponent might do. Knowing I’ve done everything right leading up to the fight gives me a big confidence boost.
What’s your training schedule like during fight camp versus the off-season?
It’s mostly the same. The structure doesn’t change much, just the intensity. Fight camp just brings more urgency to everything.
How important is diet and recovery in your routine?
Diet is huge. I try to stay on a regimented plan year-round to keep my body optimal. Recovery could definitely be better—something I’m still learning more about.
Have you ever had to overcome a major injury or setback? How did you bounce back?
A year ago, I tore my MCL and had partial tears in my ACL, meniscus, and PCL, plus a 3mm cartilage defect. It was a brutal time, especially since my life revolves around training. Once I could stand again, I focused on boxing. That period sharpened my punching power—and now I’m on a 3-fight knockout streak.
What gym or boxing club do you train with, and what weight class do you compete in?
I train out of CUBA MMA and compete in the [insert weight class here].
Which combat sport are you participating in?
I’m actively competing in both MMA and boxing.
What’s your go-to move or combination that opponents should fear?
I won’t give too much away, but I love a good left hook to the body.
Do you study your opponents before fights, or rely more on your instincts?
A mix of both. My team and I watch tape to get a general idea, but we don’t rely too much on it. Fighters change, and the one standing across from you might be completely different than expected.
How do you handle nerves or pressure before a big match?
I don’t really feel pressure anymore. I used to, but now I just have faith in my preparation. Whatever happens, happens.
What’s one misconception people have about combat sports or fighters?
That fighters are “bad” people or overly aggressive. In reality, most are incredibly humble and respectful.
Which do you value more in a fight: technique, power, or heart? Why?
All three equally. The balance of those traits gives you the edge over anyone who’s missing even one.
Is there a dream opponent or match you’d love to have in the future?
I’d love to fight Ilia Topuria or Alexander Volkanovski.
How do you balance the intensity of combat sports with your personal life?
It’s tough, but I try to treat my personal life like recovery. Sometimes mental rest is just as important as physical.
How do you stay focused during a long, grueling round?
I stay locked in by constantly looking for ways to finish the fight. That intention keeps my focus sharp.
How do you handle criticism, whether from coaches, fans, or media?
If it’s from my coaches, I take it seriously. They want what’s best for me. But outside opinions? Unless they’ve been in my shoes, they don’t carry much weight.
How do you want to be remembered in the world of combat sports?
As one of the best. Someone who always delivered, never quit, and earned respect.
What advice would you give to young fighters just starting out?
Don’t cut corners. Make sure you’re doing this because you truly want it—not because it looks cool or for recognition. Do it because you need it.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
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