Jamie Siraj to Michael Hay: “Have my belt ready!”
Nov 27, 2018
Jamie “The Gremlin” Siraj has established himself as one of Canada’s top bantamweight fighters. The dynamic British Columbia product is excited to add to his resume — and belt collection — when he takes on red-hot Michael Hay for the vacant Unified MMA Bantamweight Championship at Unified 35 on Dec. 7 at River Cree Resort & Casino. Before that, he checked in with UnifiedMMA.ca.
What does fighting for this Unified MMA belt mean to you?
It’s huge. It’s an opportunity to add another professional belt to my collection, and in my opinion it’ll put me in the Top 10 in Canada. Next I want to fight someone in the Top 5, then make our way to the UFC.
Who are the top bantamweights in Canada right now?
Me, Cole Smith, Jesse Arnett, Justin Basra — we’re the top guys.
How close is Michael Hay to that list?
He’s really close, especially with his current win streak. He’s finishing people quickly, but he’s not fought anyone like me, or any of the guys I just mentioned. I think he’s a very skilled opponent, but his record doesn’t mean the same as mine. I’ve fought really tough guys. He’s crafty, very skilled on the ground; but he’s not on my level.
It’s almost cliche at this point, but do you think Hay is going to see that there are levels to this game at Unified 35?
Yes, definitely. I don’t think Michael will ever fight anyone in his career again that has the intensity that I bring to the cage. I fight with a very ferocious pace, and I’m excited to show off some new things I’ve been working on. I see myself finishing him in devastating fashion.
How’s it going to feel to have that belt wrapped around your waist?
It’s going to feel amazing. It’s another big step in my journey in MMA, and I’m just excited. I’m really happy for this opportunity. Have the belt ready for me!
