Former kickboxing star Phil Engeroff is coming of age in the cage
May 19, 2022
EDMONTON – At the end of the day, Phil Engeroff is a fighter.
He began his combat sports career as a Golden Gloves boxer in Alberta before taking his talents to Thailand, where he excelled as a professional kickboxer. Most recently, Engeroff branched off into the high-stakes world of professional MMA. Whether it’s in the cage or in the ring, Engeroff is always down to scrap.
As a kickboxer, Engeroff boasts a record of 29-8-1 and is a two-time champion in the famed Bangla Stadium in Thailand. He certainly hasn’t closed the door on more kickboxing fights in the future, but right now he’s focused on MMA.
“If there’s an opportunity that comes up in the striking world that’s worthwhile, I’m open to it. But, at the same time, I’ve paid my dues in the striking world,” Engeroff says. “I’m ready to make that switch (to MMA) and make some money, you know?”
So far, the 29-year-old Engeroff has been a quick study as a professional in the cage, jumping out to a 2-0 start in his career. He tries to improve to 3-0 against fellow striking specialist Mac Laursen (1-1) at Unified 45 on May 27 at River Cree Resort & Casino in Enoch, AB, LIVE on UFC Fight Pass. Interestingly enough, both of the former stand-up star’s MMA victories are by first-round submission. The German-born Canadian wouldn’t be surprised by a third.
“I’m looking for a finish, as always, whether it’s on the feet or on the ground. I’m working my whole MMA game, so wherever the fight goes, I’m ready for it,” Engeroff says.
“I’m looking for a finish in the first or second round,” he adds. “Get in and get out, take the least amount of damage, and start looking towards the next one, right?”
ABOUT UNIFIED MMA
Unified MMA is Canada’s leading mixed martial arts promotion, showcasing the country’s top-ranked fighters, LIVE on UFC Fight Pass. The organization has successfully promoted 44 events since it was founded in 2009, and has propelled several athletes to the UFC’s Octagon.
