Earlier this month it was reported that top UFC featherweight Chan Sung Jung would be taking a 2-yr hiatus from fighting to serve in the military in his home country of South Korea. The service is required of all adult males in the country. Jung recently spoke to MMAFighting.com about his service and how he feels it could actually extended his career in the UFC:
What was your reaction when you heard that you’ll have to put your MMA career on hold for two years?
Chan Sung Jung: It’s not something that was a surprise. Since all able-bodied men are obligated to serve, I knew that it was something that I’d have to do at some point.
Did you try to convince the military to not let you join now so you can finish your career?
No. It’s the law and a duty of all Korean men. Those are the rules, so I have to abide by them.
Are you confident you will be able to resume your career when your service time is up?
Absolutely. I think this may extend my career, because it gives me some much needed time to heal. I’ll have time to work on my skills without pushing myself to the limit, which is necessary when training for a fight.
