Making the transition from featherweight (145lbs) to bantamweight (135lbs) was a necessary move on my part. Although I was winning fights and competitive at featherweight, the size and strength differential made becoming a top contender very difficult.

Over the past few weeks I have put an emphasis on improving my strength and conditioning. I was a little lost at first but with the  help of my friend Simon Marini (MFC 155lbs contender) and James Sutherland (Better Bodies Nutrition) I was able to put together a great workout and supplement plan.

I am going to start working drills and technique combined with strength and conditioning  this week. I have been out of the ring for a few months and am looking forward to being a lot more active in the new year.

Stay tuned.

In other news....

Clarkey was working as the head co-ordinator for the Canadian College Human Resources Convention held at the Delta Chelsea in downtown Toronto this week. Having spent a lot of time sneaking in and out of hotels and taking advantage of their amenities, those who dare to call 82 Beverley home have become quite skilled in the art of living for free while in the city.

Here are a few pictures of our stay at the Delta Chelsea.

Beer and Nuts along with letter of appreciation addressed to "Mr. Clarke"

Clarkey and Al after loading bottles of wine for conference in the a.m.

Al taking in some complimentary beakfast. 

Enjoying some fruit and a muffin with "Mr. Clarke"

Chillin in the hot-tub on the 27th floor after a hard day of training and free-loading.

No explanation here. 

I also started skateboarding again, something I had left behind in high-school.

Gleaming the slide.

Foot-Plant sequence, Old-School sucker. 

Ollie. 

82 FOR LIFE. 

"living in the past is not living up to our potential" - unknown.

It takes a long time for a man to admit how fragile he truly is. I thought that by forcing myself to the gym that I would be able to physically conquer my spiritual fragility.

I was wrong.

After a short visit with my uncle something clicked. I left the hospital knowing that things were going to be different. This time, I actually believed it.

For the first time in months, I felt that I needed to be in the gym. I started lifting weights and sprinting again. I also decided to shave my beard.

What had started as a tribute to my friend had become a painful reminder of his passing. The quote I included above prompted me to shave it.

I am back in the gym preparing for my return to the ring sometime in the near future. As soon as everything is finalized I will share it with you.

I will leave you with a quote Evan had shared with me.

"live well, laugh often, love much"