Mark “Sharky” Slyter hunting for highlight-reel finish Saturday at Shamrock FC 326

The super-tough Mark “Sharky” Slyter defends his hometown this weekend when he welcomes Sean McPadden to Kansas City, Mo., on Saturday at Shamrock FC 326, LIVE on FITE. Before that, the fast-rising bantamweight spoke with FightBook MMA.

How did you find MMA to begin with?

I had a buddy, Tyler Stokes, who started fighting. I was wrestling at the time but after an injury I had to stop competing. I missed the competition, so I started training with my buddy and I fell in love with it right from the beginning. I’ve been fighting for about seven years now.

Are you expecting a lot of fans in attendance on fight night?

Absolutely. I’ve got a good fanbase (laughs). It makes it more fun. It’s an opportunity to go out there and put on a show for my friends and family. Most of my fights lately have been out of town, so I’m just excited. This is the most dangerous I’ve ever been and I’m just ready to put on a show. Put on a highlight reel.

Do you know much about your opponent?

I don’t. I just know he’s fought for LFA and he’s undefeated. He looks decent in all areas, but nothing that impresses me.

Do you think he’s ever fought anyone like you?

No, not at all. He’s never competed at the level I’ve competed at. I’ve been doing this since I was three years old. I know for a fact he hasn’t fought anyone of my caliber. He hasn’t been to that next level. I’m going to give him that experience and open up his eyes.

What’s the most likely outcome for this fight?

Just a win, by any means necessary. I’m going to be looking for a finish the whole time and it doesn’t matter how it comes, whether it’s a knockout or a submission.