Holland wins grudge match (From Bucks Free Press)

Wycombe fighter in line for title shot

4:00pm Thursday 13th September 2012 in Local Sport By Alan Feldberg

MATT Holland is a relieved man this week after winning the most spiteful Mixed Martial Arts fight of his career.

The Wycombe man beat Steve Jennings in Watford on Saturday night, after almost a year of bitter feuding between the two.

Holland said: “This was one fight he didn’t want to lose, but I wanted him badly and I got more satisfaction out of it than any fight I’ve ever had.”

The acrimony started when Holland withdrew from a fight with Jennings a year ago.

Cracked ribs and car troubles were part of the reason, but Jennings wasn’t impressed.

Holland said: “He went too far with what he was saying and it stressed me out.

“We’re meant to be athletes – you win, lose or draw and then shake hands afterwards.”

Holland exacted revenge in the ring though, winning both five-minute rounds 10-8.

He said: “He’d really put in the hours. He took two months off work to train for me and he was very tough, probably the toughest I’ve faced.

“I got the victory in the end, but I wanted to be the first person to finish him.

“I came close a few times, I hurt him and dropped him a few times, but I didn’t finish him.”

Holland’s victory could have grand consequences – he will now fight Kes Mamba for the British title at Handy Cross on November 10.

He said: “I can’t wait, I’ve waited a long time for that belt.”

Tickets at www.tkmma.co.uk or 07932 384 943