From the slaughterhouse to the cage, Ibrahim Simreen’s journey into combat sports was anything but conventional. Raised on toughness and fueled by raw instinct, Simreen’s early days were spent wrestling animals and scrapping in the streets laying the foundation for the relentless, pressure-heavy fighter he is today. Now training out of Animals MMA and competing in the 155-pound division, Simreen is an all-in warrior who embraces the full spectrum of combat disciplines, with MMA as his battleground of choice. Calm under fire and built on conviction, he’s not just chasing greatness, he’s charging straight into it.

What inspired you to start training in combat sports?
I used to wrestle with cows and animals at the slaughterhouse, and I scrapped all the time growing up. So for me, it was something I naturally leaned into. It was already part of who I was.

Which discipline did you start with, and how has your style evolved?
I started with wrestling, which is probably why my fighting style is so forward-pressure heavy. I like to dictate the pace and keep my opponents reacting.

How would you describe your fighting style in one sentence?
Relentless pressure, calculated chaos, and the will to break my opponent’s spirit.

Who are your biggest influences or role models in combat sports?
I admire fighters who stand firm on their beliefs and values, even when the crowd disagrees. That kind of conviction speaks louder than any highlight reel.

What’s been the toughest fight of your career so far, and why?
The toughest fight is the one I’m still in—recovering from a brutal accident. I was rear-ended by a speeding car in April 2024, which left me with eight bulging discs, three herniated discs, a shoulder injury, and a long road of surgeries and rehab. That’s the battle I’m fighting every day.

How do you mentally prepare before stepping into the ring or cage?
I’m actually extremely calm. I sleep until about ten minutes before my walkout. That calmness keeps me sharp and focused.

What’s your training schedule like during fight camp versus the off-season?
I’m always training to the best of my ability, but when a fight is scheduled, everything ramps up. More intensity, more structure, more urgency.

How important is diet and recovery in your routine?
Extremely important. It’s just as vital as any workout, sparring session, or drill. You can’t perform if your body isn’t fueled and recovered properly.

Have you ever had to overcome a major injury or setback? How did you bounce back?
Yes—my current recovery journey is the biggest setback I’ve ever faced. That accident in 2024 changed everything. I’ve undergone nine procedures so far. But I’m still standing, still pushing. My comeback story isn’t finished.

What’s your go-to move or combination that opponents should fear?
Relentless pressure. I put people on their back foot, take them down, and finish with submissions or ground and pound. If I have to strike, I love fighting in the pocket.

Do you study your opponents before fights, or rely more on your instincts?
Both. I heavily study and game plan, but instincts matter too. You’ve got to be able to adjust on the fly when the lights are on.

How do you handle nerves or pressure before a big match?
I don’t get nervous. I don’t feel pressure. Whatever happens, I trust in my faith and my preparation. I respond to adversity with confidence, not fear.

What’s one misconception people have about combat sports or fighters?
People think we’re just violent and can’t think logically—that we always resort to fighting. But it’s actually the opposite. Most of us are extremely disciplined, thoughtful, and calm outside the cage.

Which do you value more in a fight: technique, power, or heart? Why?
There has to be a balance, but heart is the anchor. Power is useless if you don’t have the heart to stay the course when the fight gets ugly. Heart keeps you moving when everything hurts.

Is there a dream opponent or match you’d love to have in the future?
Honestly, I’m just grateful to be in this sport. Every fight is a gift. I just want to compete among the best and put my name next to theirs.

How do you balance the intensity of combat sports with your personal life?
Everything I do in life is filtered through the lens of my fight career. As a professional, every decision has consequences for my body and performance.

How do you stay focused during a long, grueling round?
The other person is just as tired. I won’t whither. That mindset keeps me sharp through the grind.

How do you handle criticism, whether from coaches, fans, or media?
Criticism comes with the territory. But if someone’s never been where I’m trying to go, their opinion doesn’t carry much weight.

How do you want to be remembered in the world of combat sports?
As someone exciting, honest, humble, and real. I want people to feel something when they watch me fight.

What advice would you give to young fighters just starting out?
Go all in or don’t commit at all. This is the most unforgiving sport on the planet. You either win and become immortalized or lose and get humiliated in front of the world. There’s no in-between. Decide what you’re made of.

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