That enjoyment finds Matthews reborn in the gym as well, seeing the world of a fighter for the first time through the eyes of a parent.

Without consciously thinking about it, I just seem to push harder in training now. That sort of breaking point where you get tired and relax, its extended out further now. I dont know if its due to becoming a dad or not, but thats definitely happened since weve had the baby. If anything, its improved my drive, my motivation. And hopefully something I can take into the fight.

The fight he speaks of is Saturdays tilt against Swedens Rostem Akman, a fierce striker with only one professional loss on his record.

I think its a good fight just to get back on track, get back into the win column. Hes in the UFC for a reason, hes a tough guy. Is he the caliber of guy that Ive fought before? No. But in saying that, Im going in there as if Im fighting a world champion, like I always do. So, to me, hes the toughest guy in the world. Its a good fight, mentally. If they brought out a big-name guy, nerves might be racking up a little bit more. The goal for this one is just to get a nice, quick finish. Put the statement out that Im still here, still active, still getting wins.

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Motivation Easy To Find For Jake Matthews - The Official Website of the Ultimate Fighting Championship