Karl Moore has hailed the calming influence of coach John Kavanagh after making a blistering return to action last month.
Moore made his comeback following a three-year hiatus with a stoppage win over highly-ranked Karl Albrektsson on the main Bellator card at Dublin's 3Arena.
It was a significant statement of intent from the 30-year-old Belfast fighter who now wants to push on to bigger and better things.
Read more: Karl Moore insists "this is my time" after thrilling MMA comeback
Moore linked up with Kavanagh's SBG Gym in Dublin five years ago but his career stalled due to Covid-19, injuries and, by his own admission, complacency.
Last month's win was a major step in the right direction for the West Belfast fighter, and he credits much of his success to SBG supremo Kavanagh, whose stable includes MMA legend Conor McGregor.
"I moved to SBG in Dublin about five years ago. And that was only my second fight out of there," Moore told Belfast Live.
"John Kavanagh is my main coach. He has been unbelievable. John's life is that gym and he takes the sessions and answers any questions you have. He takes the time to break everything down and help you in any way he can.
"He is just a great coach and he gives you so much confidence. He is very relaxed and measured in the corner, and you need that sometimes in the heat of battle when your adrenalin is pumping.
"He gives you simple and precise instructions and doesn't get wrapped up in emotion.
"He just makes it very clear what he wants you do to, and if you carry out his instructions then you obviously have a good chance of winning the fight."
Moore is determined to make up for lost time following a frustrating couple of years.
He even started back lifting weights just days after his win over Albrektsson.
"I can't not do anything," he added.
"I was buzzing for days after the fight, but I have plenty more to do. This isn't a peak or anything like that.
"I just want to keep going and winning more. This is just the start for me.
"I am making up for lost time after being out for almost three years. It was a mixture of everything that resulted in the inactivity.
"There was Covid, my own complacency and mostly injuries. And they kept happening back-to-back and I had a run of bad luck.
"But things seem to be on the right track now. I had a great win against a guy ranked in the top 10, and finished him. So I have done everything I set out to do."
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