James E O’Connell: ‘If it wasn’t for Muay Thai I wouldn’t be alive’

Contact sports are synonymous with the entertainment industry. Two prize-fighters battle it out for honour and to make a living. Promotors generate interest, spectators pay to watch the ‘show’ and journalists provide media on the proceedings.

But if we look deeper, there are incredible stories to be told from the men and women who take the brave steps to the cage or the ring. It’s not just for our benefit, it’s for theirs to.

Hence, meet James E O’Connell, a Muay Thai fighter who competes on March 26 at Cage Kings. He opened up to Fightstore Media with heartfelt honesty.

At the age of 19, James walked into a community hall and began Muay Thai. Where would he be if he had stayed at home that day?

“I honestly don’t think I would be alive. I wasn’t a very nice person back then. Muay Thai changed my life, I was arsing about and drinking and I wasn’t a nice person, thai boxing changed my life around. I don’t think I would be here if I didn’t walk into that community hall. I always say that to my trainer and he always makes a joke out of it,” reflected O’Connell.

Almost a decade later and James E O’Connell is a Cage King’s champion. He will defend his crown against Karl Hodgers later this month at the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght.

He said: “I know Karl, we fought four years ago. He’s a good kid. He was sharp then and will be even sharper now. I’m not one for predictions. I just know it’s going to be a good fight. I beat him for my first Irish title, I’ve improved since then and he’s definitely improved to.”

O’Connell admitted that before bouts he doesn’t make for amicable company.

“I don’t get nervous, it’s more anxious. I get wound up more. I’m not nice to talk to before fights, I’m pretty ignorant. Before a fight I’m a very angry person. I try to stay as calm as possible but when the fight comes closer I get more angry than nervous. This fight with Karl is my 30th pro fight so you get used to it,” stated the champion.

Although being an experienced combatant, O’Connell still has his eyes fixed on more glory. In the summer he will compete for another belt in Glasgow.

He added: “I’ve got a big fight in June. I’m fighting for an international WBC title which is my next goal so I’m looking forward to that.”

O’Connell asked to give a shoutout to his sponsors Kingdom Muay Thai and to Martin and Lar for getting him on the card.

It’s not always easy for a fighter to be completely transparent to strangers and agree to have their personal stories published. But when they do, it is always appreciated.