David Lee: Staying Strong and Still Teaching!

I recently spoke with former UFC fighter David Lee. Mr. Lee has fought a ton of good talent including

Vaughan Lee, Brad Pickett, Tyson Griffin and Ashleigh Grimshaw. Through many ups and downs, he continues to train and teach MMA as a way of life.

BJ: How was your UFC experience and how did they treat you?

DL: It was amazing. I think it was a bit of luck as I'd had a run of wins and the UFC was looking at the UK market. I was around the 9th or 10th Brit to fight in the UFC and I think the 4th or 5th to fight state-side. Huge honor. I wish I could do it again.

BJ: Your first pro fight was 11 years ago.  What made you get into the sport? 

DL: Well, I had trained in martial arts most of my life. I believe in testing your ability. Some do it in class and some go a step further and compete. Competing is the next step. It gives you questions and keeps your ego in check and also shows you what works.

BJ: Who would be your dream match or if you could fight anyone or rematch one of your losses, who would it be?

DL: The guy you face in a competition does not matter. You are there against yourself.

BJ: Out of all of the people you've faced, who hits the hardest? ...Like made you say, "Wow, he hits hard."


DL: Trouble is, in the fight if you get hit really hard - you do not know about it. It's in the gym when you've trained twice in that day and the fresh guy puts gloves on - this is when you feel the hard ones.

BJ: Do you follow the UFC anymore? What fighters do you like to watch?

DL: Of course. I am a big fan. I like to watch the old guys and anyone I have links with is always cool. I do not have one fighter I follow though, I enjoy many.

BJ: You've gone 7-6 since leaving the UFC but have since won 3 of 4. Are you planning on sticking to featherweight and continue fighting for UCMMA?

DL: I will fight anywhere if the money is good. I fight from featherweight, lightweight and welterweight. You pay me, I'll fight.

BJ: Are you still training and teaching? If you are, where?

DL: Yes, I have my academy in Harrow, London UK. (www.crossface.co.uk). I teach MMA and BJJ there. I also run a small outreach project. (www.freejiujitsu.co.uk). I represent Erik Paulson in the Combat Submission Wrestling and I represent Icon Jiu-Jitsu to whom I'm a black belt under Zé Marcello.

BJ: Is there anyone you would like to shout out or how can people reach you?

DL: I'd like to thank my wife and kid for bringing beauty into my life and keeping me rooted. Erik Paulson for his trust and teachings. Zé Marcello for again trust and teachings. Winston Scott for showing me the path. All of my students for making Team Crossface strong and you for thinking of me for this interview.

BJ: Some of the old-school'ers do not get enough credit. It's been 8 years since David fought in the Octagon which was long before the pre-fight shows, video blogs, Twitter and other social media. It was a lot more difficult to market yourself then. It has become second nature to work with sponsors, social media and video to help get your name out there.




I wish all the best to David and his team.

Until next time!

BJ