Fighting in Times Square—it’s a dream for many, but for Tom Picciano, it’s about to become a reality. On August 15, Pooch steps into the cage at the debut event of Victory Fight League, squaring off against Jay “Presto” Pressley. It’s not just a fight; it’s a groundbreaking moment in MMA history, and Tom is ready to deliver a performance the fans won’t forget. Let’s dive into his journey leading up to this iconic event, his thoughts on fighting in Times Square, and what this fight means for his career.
Fighting in the Heart of New York City
For a Long Island native like Tom, fighting in Times Square is more than just a venue—it’s a surreal opportunity. “Stuff like this doesn’t happen all the time,” he shares. “To have this card outside in Times Square, it’s like being part of MMA history.” The buzz surrounding this event is palpable, with fans amazed at the idea of a regional MMA card taking place in such an iconic location. “There’s just something about New York City. It has this aura around it,” Tom explains, describing the excitement that comes with performing in the heart of the city.
A Stacked Card for MMA Fans
The Victory Fight League debut isn’t just about the venue—it’s about the talent. The card is packed with New York vs. everybody matchups featuring names like Solomon Renfro, TJ Brown, Julio Arce, and others. Tom sees the event as a chance to showcase some of the best regional talent. “Everybody who’s bought a ticket or is going to watch the pay-per-view is definitely in for a treat,” he promises. For Tom, this is more than just another fight—it’s a chance to show fans what he’s capable of on a high-profile stage.
Breaking Down Jay Pressley
Tom’s opponent, Jay Pressley, comes with a record of 8-7 and a reputation for being explosive. “He’s got fast-twitch muscle movement,” Tom notes. “He’s constantly in and out, moving his hands, his head, his feet—it’s his biggest strength.” However, Tom is no stranger to Pressley’s style. Having cornered against him in a previous fight, Tom has studied Pressley closely. “I saw how he reacts to certain things, how his gas tank holds up. What I saw is what I’m going to get,” he predicts confidently.
Tom’s game plan? Neutralize Pressley’s explosiveness by taking him into deep waters. “I’m going to take him down, beat him up, fill his muscles with lactic acid, and take away his cardio. He’s kind of a one-trick pony. He can box, but he can’t grapple for anything,” Tom asserts. His goal is clear: to finish the fight, whether by submission or TKO, and make a statement in front of the Times Square crowd.
Preparation and Peak Performance
Tom’s training camp for this fight has been nothing short of intense. “I’ve been in camp all year,” he reveals. Starting his prep last December for a fight that fell through, Tom stayed in shape and kept training even after his April win. “I didn’t take damage in April, so I just stayed ready. My striking is as sharp as it’s ever been, my grappling is on another level, and my cardio is through the roof.” With such a rigorous preparation, Tom is confident he’s in peak physical and mental condition to deliver his best performance yet.
What’s Next for Tom Picciano?
While Tom’s immediate focus is on August 15, he’s keeping an eye on the future. “My main goal is to get to the UFC,” he shares. However, he’s also open to opportunities with other promotions like PFL, especially as they expand their bantamweight division. “Wherever the money is, that’s where I’m going,” he says. For now, though, it’s all about taking things one step at a time. “I’m going to go out there, beat up Jay Pressley, and then see where that leads. Maybe take a little time to recover and get back in there by November or December.”
Be Part of MMA History
August 15 is a date you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re watching live in Times Square or tuning in via pay-per-view, this event promises to be a memorable night for MMA fans. Tom Picciano is ready to leave it all in the cage and make his mark on this historic card. “It’s in God’s hands,” Tom says of his journey. “I just have to go out there and prove it.”
