Ahmed Faez "Eazy" Anuar currently holds a 3-0-0 record in professional MMA with two of his latest victories coming from the ONE Warrior Series. Prior to embarking on his MMA journey, he spent two decades playing rugby and eventually moved up the ranks to captain the national team. We at BruSports News got the chance to speak to the Khalifa MMA co-founder to know him better.
Q: Tell us something about the man Eazy Anuar?
A: Average hometown boy, daddy husband, that friend you can talk to, coffee fanatic, driven coach, pro MMA fighter and future local hero.
Q: Share with us your sporting journey. We know that you have been in rugby, boxing, BJJ and now MMA.
A: I was in rugby for almost two decades ago and it taught me about mental fortitude and physical toughness.
That default package alone helped the transition towards everything a lot easier. Being the national captain with high hopes also made me an over achiever with anything I get into.
Q: You are known as the pioneer of BJJ in Brunei. How did it begin?
A: It began when David Ashley (our first ever coach) decided to complete his CFBT contract in Brunei. It wasn't really a "passing of the torch" but it was more of keeping the torch lit in order to keep this gig running.
So the coaching aspect was a bit of a leap into the unknown. Then again as I said, the years of leading 15 men in a rugby team in numerous matches and countless training sessions have really helped.
Q: What was the decision like when you quit your job and do MMA full time?
A: Easy like my nickname.
Q: What is your favourite discipline of MMA and why?
A: I don't have a favourite as I aspire to be good in all. Being well rounded is the way to go. I guess I can say my favourite discipline is the one to train the basics daily.
Q: What do you think is the best memory to date for MMA?
A: I don't have a particular best memory. But my fondest ones are always my training camps. Those good 6-8 weeks of grind.
People only see the wins and losses on fight day.
What really shapes a man and evolves an athlete are the dark days in training. The grit, the camaraderie, the pep talks, the rising from broken spirits and the determination to be 1% better everyday after every session.
Q: Who do you idolise in the sport?
A: George St Pierre. He's the ultimate athlete in my opinion. The GOAT.
Q: What is your ultimate goal in MMA?
A: To fight until I'm 50 like Randy couture, and leave a legacy.
Q: What do you think makes a good MMA athlete?
A: discipline in all aspects - showing up for training, public appearance, well mannered, humility and the will to be better. Hence, George St. Pierre.
Q: Can you tell us more about your hobbies outside of MMA. What do you spend most of your time doing?
A: I coach kids, teenagers and adults. I help people achieve their goals. I used to have a lot of hobbies - mountain biking, motorcycle riding and diving.
But now I enjoy a quiet day in with my family, watching my son grow up. Oh yeah, coffee. I'm a caffeine addict so anything coffee, I'm there.
Q: What kind of music do you like? How important is it to have right track on while working out at the gym?
A: Hip hop, soul and R&B. Full-stop! Of course it's important (to have the right track), it's a mood setter!
Q: You were chubby when you were younger. What’s the secret to getting into shape?
A: Very simple, Eat right! Simple, nutrition dense, good caloric foods.
Q: Do you have any other nicknames? How did it come about?
A: Ayah.. after my son came into this world. (laughs)
