Fresno, CA – Joshua “The Come-Up Kid” Simpson, a rising star in the MMA world, is gearing up to defend his featherweight title in Bakersfield this weekend. In a recent interview on the popular podcast The Goat Farm, Simpson opened up about his journey from amateur fighter to soon-to-be professional, offering a glimpse into the grit and determination behind his success. Joined by podcast hosts Westside JJ and Freeway Zo at Marquito’s Boxing Gym in Fresno, Simpson shared his experiences, challenges, and excitement for the upcoming fight.
Simpson’s Journey: From Fresno to Bakersfield
Simpson, a 23-year-old fighter from Fresno, will be defending his 145-pound featherweight title against Jonathan Gonzalez at the Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield on September 14th. This fight marks a significant moment in his career, as it will be his last bout as an amateur before he turns professional.
“I’ve been fighting since I was 19, and this will be my last amateur fight before going pro. I’m ready to bring the belt back home to Fresno,” said Simpson. His confidence and focus are clear, as he prepares for what could be a career-defining moment.
The Path to Pro: Hard Work and Dedication
When asked about the path from amateur to professional, Simpson emphasized the importance of patience and preparation. “A lot of fighters want to rush to the big screen and get the big bag, but you have to be ready. If you’re not prepared, you’re wasting your opportunity,” he explained.
Simpson credited his success to listening to his coaches and putting in countless hours of training. “It’s not just about being an athlete; it’s about being technical. You need experience before you step up to fight real killers,” he added.
A Look at the Upcoming Fight
Simpson’s upcoming opponent, Jonathan Gonzalez, is known for his scrappy fighting style, something Simpson is looking forward to. “He’s a good scrapper from the Bay. I don’t think he’s too technical, but he’s going to bring a lot of heart to the fight,” said Simpson. “I’m ready to throw hands, and I’m excited that I don’t have to fight a wrestler this time.”
In his last fight against Stefan Espinoza, Simpson won in dominant fashion, a testament to his rigorous preparation. “I went into that fight knowing I had to finish early. I didn’t want it to go to a decision because I felt like I got robbed in my previous fight,” he said, referring to a controversial outcome at the 559 Fights event.
From Football to Fighting
Simpson’s athletic career began on the football field, where he played wide receiver in high school. “The transition from football to fighting was tough. Football is all about strength and short bursts of energy, while fighting is more of a grind,” he explained. “In fighting, you have to train while you’re starving, and you have to be light on your feet.”
He shared how his upbringing in both Fresno and Bakersfield shaped him, but his heart has always been in Fresno. “Bakersfield was cool, but it wasn’t home. Fresno is where all my people are, and I couldn’t wait to get back,” he said.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Focused
Simpson’s resilience is evident in the way he handles setbacks. “Every loss just makes me hungrier. As an amateur, I’m here to make mistakes and learn from them,” he stated. “It’s all about getting back in there, fixing what went wrong, and starting the next streak.”
The young fighter also touched on the discipline required to stay focused both inside and outside the ring. He credits his strong support system for helping him stay on track. “I only go out to places where I know it’s a good environment. I’ve got a solid group of people around me who keep me grounded,” Simpson said.
The Influence of Coach Mike
A major influence in Simpson’s life and career is his MMA coach, Mike, from D-Throne Gym, a renowned MMA gym in Fresno. “Coach Mike is the biggest person that ever invested in me, not just as a fighter but in my personal life too. He’s always been there for me, even picking me up from the other side of town for training,” said Simpson.
D-Throne has produced some of the top fighters in the MMA world, including Josh Koscheck and Cain Velasquez, and Simpson is proud to be part of that legacy.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Professional Fighting
Simpson is set to go pro later this year, with plans to sign his first professional fight contract by November or December. Unlike boxing, where fighters often sign long-term promotional deals, MMA fighters like Simpson have more flexibility. “In MMA, you stay open. You fight for whoever wants to pay you, and you can fight in different leagues like UFC, Bellator, or One Championship,” he explained.
As he prepares to step into the professional arena, Simpson remains focused on the long-term goal of reinvesting in himself as a fighter. “First, I want to invest in my training, nutrition, and everything I need to get better. Then, I can focus on the bigger checks and making moves for my family,” he said.
Final Thoughts
Simpson’s journey from amateur to professional is a testament to his hard work, discipline, and passion for fighting. As he prepares to defend his featherweight title in Bakersfield, he remains grounded and motivated by his love for the sport and his desire to make Fresno proud.
“I’m ready to bring that belt back home,” said Simpson confidently. As the Come-Up Kid prepares for his final amateur fight, all eyes will be on him this weekend.
The Goat Farm Podcast: A Platform for Rising Talent
The Goat Farm Podcast, hosted by Westside JJ, Freeway Zo, and Zed Trilla, has quickly become a must-watch platform for anyone interested in Fresno’s local talent and beyond. These hosts provide a space for in-depth conversations, highlighting the personal journeys, challenges, and victories of fighters, athletes, and various personalities. Their candid interviews showcase not just the competitive side of their guests, but also the human side, offering insights into their motivations and lives outside the ring or gym.
Westside JJ, Freeway Zo, and Zed Trilla are passionate about bringing untold stories to the forefront, and their engaging style keeps listeners hooked. From fighters preparing for their next bout to community members making a difference, The Goat Farm Podcast shines a spotlight on those working hard to make an impact.
For more engaging interviews, discussions, and behind-the-scenes stories, be sure to follow The Goat Farm Podcast on YouTube. This dynamic trio continues to elevate local voices and connect listeners with the heart of Fresno’s talent.
