Stephen Richards talks about his return to the ring against Cyrus Washington

Last year Stephen Richards put on a memorable performance when he defeated Shawn Yarborough for the IKKC light heavyweight title in August. What was so memorable? Richards had his arm broken when blocking a kick from Yarborough midway through the fight, but rather than throw in the towel he continued to fight and push forward. 

Despite winning, the injury took Richards out of commission for over a year, but he is now set to make his return against Cyrus Washington at Bangkok Fight Night 11 in Atlanta, GA on October 22nd. Stephen took some time out of his training to answer a few questions for Muay Thai Authority about his injury and his return to action for the WBC Muay Thai national super middleweight title.

MTA: It is your first Muay Thai fight back since you broke your arm when you defeated Shawn Yarborough back in August of 2010. Is the arm 100% now?

Stephen: Well since August of last year my arm has been healing well, since march of this year Doctors said it will be stronger than before.

MTA: Were you able to train while your arm was healing or did it completely have you out of commission?

Stephen: I didn't start training again fully until about when I heard of the tryouts earlier this year. I was only able to instruct so I wasn't in shape much.

MTA: How has the training camp for this fight been going?

Stephen: Well as far as training camp goes, wow, intense I always hate when I get out of shape and have to start from scratch, feels like a beginner all over.

MTA: Your opponent is Cyrus Washington, how familiar are you with Cyrus and is there anything he brings to the table that you feel could give you trouble?

Stephen: I started to hear about Cyrus this year and that he has been fighting much in Thailand and such. He brings a spicy style to the art.

MTA: What advantages do you see yourself having in the fight against Cyrus?

Stephen: I don't see much advantage.

MTA: The fight will be for the WBC Muay Thai super middleweight national title, when you fought Yarborough he had the WBC Muay Thai belt at the time, but the fight was for his IKKC belt. Is the WBC Muay Thai belt something you have been looking to get your hands on?

Stephen: Yes, the WBC is a goal of mine and to fight for that title is a big step up for me and as always I do my best.

MTA: What is your prediction for the fight with Cyrus?

Stephen: No comment.

MTA: With this being your first fight back in quite some time are you worried about any ring rust?

Stephen: Well I wouldn't say I am worried, but nothing I can't dust off.

MTA: Any parting words for your supporters?

Stephen: To all of you out there as always I want to say thank you for your support and looking forward to an exciting an memorable fight.