10 Questions With Cheick Kongo (by Darrick Patrick)

Cheick "Unstoppable" Kongo is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, King Of The Ring, It's Showtime, and Rings Holland.  He is also known as "The African Punisher", "Strange", "The French Sensation", and Cheick Guillaume Ouedraogo.  At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Mustapha Al-Turk at UFC 92 on December 27th, 2008.

Darrick: What was the road that led you to competing in professional mixed martial arts?

Cheick: You know, as far as I can remember, I have always practiced martial arts.  I started to learn Kendo and Karate when I was six, and I began practicing Greco-Roman wrestling when I was a teenager.  Then I supplemented my training with kickboxing, Muay Thai, and Penchak Silat.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Cheick: My mother definitely!  Then my beloved brother Rudy (RIP) and my cousin Marc Angevin, who taught me Karate and Kendo when I was a little boy.

Darrick: What does a typical training session for you consist of?

Cheick: I work out five to six days a week, three to four times a day.  I do running, swimming, specific strength and conditioning, lift weights, technique work, boxing, sparring, and wrestling.  Anything that can make me feel better.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Mustapha Al-Turk on December 27th.  What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Cheick: Mustapha Al-Turk is the UK Cage Rage Heavyweight Champion - he is a tough guy, but I think I am going to knock him out.  He'd better watch out!  (Laughs)

Darrick: What personally brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts and do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Cheick: A lot of things within martial arts brings me fulfillment, but the most important one is that it helps to push me to the limits.  To become a better me.  As for advice - no pain, no gain!  Don't get stardust in your eyes, MMA is really tough.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Cheick: Tito Ortiz, Chuck Liddell, and Randy Couture for their whole careers.  Rampage for all the things he brings me every day - I consider him a brother.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Cheick: I am a full-time commercial agent for a French brand called Compagnie de Californie and I handle my own business.  I also try to improve my skills in photography, and share some quality time with my family and friends.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Cheick: I spend too much time on my phones and I eat mayo on almost everything.  (Laughs)

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Cheick: Playing fighting games with my older brother Rudy at home.

Darrick: If you had 24 hours left to live, how would you spend that time?

Cheick: I would spend my last twenty-four hours alone - at the top of a beautiful mountain, appreciating those last moments of grace and peace.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Cheick Kongo in the following places:

Official Cheick Kongo MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/cheickkongo

Cheick Kongo on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Cheick-Kongo-2193

Cheick Kongo Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/2193

Tags: Cheick Kongo Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With David Espinosa (by Darrick Patrick)

David "Kid Dynamite" Espinosa is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Cage Combat Fighting Championships, Gladiator Challenge, X-treme Fighting Championships, Total Combat, and Palace Fighting Championship.  At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Rick McCorkell at Gladiator Challenge: Revolution on January 25th, 2009.

Darrick: What was the path that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

David: I began competitively wrestling at the age of eight.  I went on to become a California state place winner and a five-year Division 1 wrestler for UC Davis.  While training with the Aggies, I became good friends with teammate Urijah Faber.  Already a huge fan of MMA, watching Urijah compete in the cage inspired me to follow suit and take my athleticism to a professional level.  Immediately following my last season on the wrestling mat, I moved in with Faber and began training as a mixed martial artist.  The rest is history in the making!

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

David: My greatest influences have definitely come from within my own family.  From my parents and siblings to my aunts and uncles, my family has always been a huge support.  It sounds kind of crazy, but I don't think my dad has ever missed a wrestling match or a fight of mine.  I also come from a long line of combative athletes.  One of my grandfathers wrestled, the other boxed, my dad was a high level martial artist and amateur boxer, and my older brother was a standout high school wrestler.  In my family, you fight.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

David: Being able to wake up every morning and do what I love to do is the greatest fulfillment I could ever ask for.  Of course the training is hard work - but when you love something, the work becomes easy.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Rick McCorkell on January 25th.  What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

David: McCorkell and I are hooking it up for the Gladiator Challenge Bantamweight World Title.  So, there's a lot on the line come January 25th.  I plan on stepping into the cage and letting my fists explode.  We'll see if he's got an answer.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

David: GSP, Randy Couture, and Urijah Faber are for sure my top three.  In my opinion, St. Pierre is the most technical fighter in the game.  He's a class act who continues to improve.  He out-strikes the best strikers and out-grapples the best grapplers.  Moving on, Randy is probably the most respectable face in MMA period.  You can't not like this guy.  Not only is he a well-spoken and an all-around nice guy, but he has compiled five UFC World Titles and is one of the only fighters to ever hold the belt in two different weight classes.  Finally, Urijah Faber has been a huge supporter and mentor of mine since I got into the sport.  Aside from helping me out on a personal level, he has proven to be one of the most explosive, innovative, and well-conditioned fighters that has ever stepped foot in the cage.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA?

David: If you're in it for the money, get out.  (Laughs)

Darrick: Outside of competitive fighting, what are your other interests?

David: When I get the time, I love paddling out with my boys and catching some waves.  I'm also into old school choppers.  Since I started fighting, I've been putting a little money from each purse towards a rigid frame chopper my brother's helping me piece together.  Aside from that, I like camping, hunting, fishing, and art.

Darrick: If you were stuck in a bomb shelter for the rest of your life, what three items would you take in with you besides food and water?

David: My beautiful fiancee, a computer with wireless internet, and a heavy bag.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

David: When I was a kid, I used to have really long hair.  At wrestling tournaments I would pull it back into one long braid, pull it up over my head and tuck it into my headgear.  Rock and Roll.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

David: Hanging out with my grandma at her house in Mentone Beach.  She's a cool old lady.

I just want to thank Darrick Patrick for doing this interview, Kaage International and Triumph United for the solid gear hook-up, my manager Todd Lawley for all of his help, and all of my coaches at Pacific Martial Arts who continue to share their knowledge.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out David Espinosa in the following places:

Official David Espinosa MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/oceanminded

David Espinosa on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/David-Espinosa-20662

David Espinosa Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/20662

Tags: David Espinosa Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Muhsin Corbbrey (by Darrick Patrick)

Muhsin "The Technician" Corbbrey is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as EliteXC, Reality Fighting, ShoXC, Champions Quest, World Vale Tudo Federation, and Reality Superfighting.  He is also a professional boxer with seven matches on his resume.

Darrick: What was the road that led you to competing in professional mixed martial arts?

Muhsin: I've been involved in martial arts since I was a kid, so I kind of always knew I would have a career in martial arts or fighting.  There comes a point when you want to test yourself and face your fears.

Darrick: Generally speaking, what does a typical training session for you consist of?

Muhsin: I'm up early every day for weight training and cardio.  I rest in the middle of the day and start back at six in the evening with BJJ technique for an hour.  After technique we drill and roll for an hour, and from eight to nine thirty every evening is Muay Thai/boxing training.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA?

Muhsin: It is a long, hard road.  Self-belief and desire equals success.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Muhsin: Master Lloyd Irvin - I want to emulate his success.  Manu N'toh has an iron will and his viciousness in the ring is legendary.  Also, Din Thomas is one of the craftiest and most skilled vets in the sport.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Muhsin: The setting and accomplishing of goals.  Also, knowing that I am involved in something that most men would never have the courage to attempt.

Darrick: Who is someone that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Muhsin: My big brother - he is one of the most straight-laced, wholeheartedly good people on the planet.  He's a great role model for anyone.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Muhsin: Educating the poor and the middle class, and helping them dig themselves out of the financial hole America has dug for them.  Also, making this country a better place for my son.  Lastly, boycotting Fox News.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Muhsin: I'm Muslim and I'm not in MMA to be a rock star.  I don't party, drink, or chase girls.  I hang out with my wife and son, pray, and accomplish goals.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Muhsin: Running around in Superman underwear and a cape while playing with my brother.

Darrick: If you were the last person alive on Earth, what do you think you'd do to entertain yourself?

Muhsin: I'd hunt grizzly bear with a pocket knife and talk to a soccer ball with a face painted on it.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Muhsin Corbbrey in the following places:

Official Muhsin Corbbrey MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/muhsincorbbrey

Muhsin Corbbrey on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/muhsin-corbbrey-2710

Muhsin Corbbrey Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/2710

Tags: Muhsin Corbbrey Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Patrick Barrentine (by Darrick Patrick)

Patrick "The Bear" Barrentine is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Gladiators Fighting Series, Next Level Fighting, Gracie Fighting League, Full Throttle, Real Fighting Championships, International Sport Combat Federation, Legends Of Fighting, Mixed Martial Arts Championship, Gracie Proving Ground, and Fightfest.  At the time of this interview, his next match was scheduled to be against Joe Mellotte but will now be with replacement Bobby Favors at Warrior Combat XXI on November 22nd, 2008.

Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Patrick: I grew up wrestling all of my life and I started watching UFC when I was ten.  I remember walking into Blockbuster with my dad and seeing the cover of UFC 1 - after watching it, I fell in love instantly.  When I was about thirteen, I wanted to find something to keep me on the mat but also not get burnt out on wrestling.  So my dad and I signed up for BJJ, but my first instructor really didn't know it too well, so we all learned together.  Months later Jorge Gurgel showed up wanting a teaching job - he was a Blue belt then.  I did that for awhile but had to take a break for some years because wrestling was getting too involved.  I wanted to win a state title and there was no time for anything else.

I won a state title my senior year after second and third place finishes the years before and went on to college wrestling for WVU.  It didn't quite work out how I planned, so I came home after a year and a half.  Jorge had heard I was back in town and wanted me to come back to the gym.  By then he was already into his fight career and working with Rich Franklin.  I got my first fight three months after training and it was the biggest rush I had ever felt.  I had wrestled in front of 17,000 people, but fighting in front of that crowd of 700 was nerve-racking.  I'm 2-1 as an ammy and 9-3 as a pro.  I train with Robert Walker at Walker MMA and Bas Rutten's Team Prodigy now.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA?

Patrick: Don't expect anything to be easy.  It's a hard life trying to make it in MMA and keep a job while you're trying to get in enough training hours.  It takes a special breed to survive MMA, just like wrestling - that's why everybody doesn't do it.  Just keep an open mind when you go to a gym and learn as much from everybody as you can, no matter how tough you think you are because there's always somebody better.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight was supposed to be with Joe Mellotte on November 22nd, but will now be against Bobby Favors.  What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Patrick: We just found out that Joe was suspended until February of 2009, so I'm fighting Bobby Favors now.  His record is 6-4 and I have fought him before.  I won by submission in one minute and fifty-two seconds, but I guess he's been doing quite well since then.  I'm really looking forward to fighting in front of my home crowd, it will be a good show at the Dayton Convention Center.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Patrick: My parents.  They are the best in the world and the most supportive.  My dad got me into MMA - he used to drive to North Dakota and Delaware to watch me wrestle.  My mom hates MMA and she used to cry when she watched me wrestle, but she still supports what I want to do with my life.  I couldn't have asked for a better support system.

Darrick: In your experience so far, what brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Patrick: I'm not going to lie - it's the win.  What's so crazy about standing toe to toe with someone saying "I am"?  (That's a quote from Rocky Balboa)  It's working your ass off and seeing what you got.  Also, the family attitude we as fighters have - we know what each other has to go through to get to the point we're at and we respect that.  I can fight someone and be friends with them afterwards.  It's not personal, it's just business.

Darrick: Where could you possibly see the future of the sport ten years from now?

Patrick: I'm hoping to see the sport grow some more so we can start making the money that boxing does.  Right now we are a business of pimps and hoes and I'm not trying to be funny, the promoters are the pimps and we are the hoes.  A promoter can always find somebody who will fight for less money.  I think I'm worth a certain amount, but it's hard for me to find fights at that amount because they will find someone who will undercut me.  We are underpaid for what we do.  We just sit at the table and hope for scraps to be thrown our way.  I hope to see that change.

Darrick: Outside of competitive fighting, what are your other interests?

Patrick: Music, dancing, and movies.  I love operas, musicals, plays, and any type of movie.  I love watching dancing, going out to the clubs, dancing, and I would love to learn how to ballroom dance.  Yeah, I know it's kind of weird for a fighter - I'm supposed to be the tough guy.

Darrick: What is your greatest memory?

Patrick: Winning the state title my senior year of high school.  I messed up my junior year and lost in double overtime in the finals.  Another year I had lost to the same kid in double overtime in the semis and took third place.  Finally in my senior year I was getting my butt kicked losing 9 to 3 in the third period, but I came back and won 11 to 10.  There was no better feeling - I cried, it was such a feeling of relief and success.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Patrick: I used to be in band and can play the clarinet, and I write poetry.

Darrick: If you had superpowers, what would they be?

Patrick: Super speed - it would really be useful as a heavyweight.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Patrick Barrentine in the following places:

Official Patrick Barrentine MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/pandabear666

Patrick Barrentine on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Patrick-Barrantine-14305

Patrick Barrentine Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/14305

Tags: Patrick Barrentine Darrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts Pat

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10 Questions With Joe Mellotte (by Darrick Patrick)

Joe Mellotte is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Legends Of Fighting, Extreme Fighting Challenge, Saturday Night At The Cage, Ohio Xtreme Fighting, Hammer House Cage Fighting, Chaos In The Cage, Hammer House Fight Night, Ohio Cage Fights, and Maximum Combat.  At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Patrick Barrentine at Warrior Combat XXI on November 22nd, 2008.

Darrick: How did you end up competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Joe: My buddy's Mustang broke down while we were on the way to Panama City Beach and we were stuck outside of Atlanta, Georgia.  They were having fights across the street from where we were staying for the night.  We went and checked it out - one of the main event fighters didn't show up, so they offered 1,500 dollars win or lose to anyone that would fight this guy from Canada.  I took them up on the offer and whooped the guy.  After I got back from Florida, I went to Hammer House and started training and fighting for Mark Coleman and Wes Sims.  The rest is history.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Joe: Actually, I went to a wrestling camp at OSU while in the seventh grade, so I have always looked up to Mark Coleman.  My family is also a big part of my life, I love them all very much.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Joe: Just being able to compete as a professional athlete, that was one of my childhood goals - and I love the way little kids look up to all of us fighters, pro and ammy.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Patrick Barrentine on November 22nd.  What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Joe: It's going to be tough.  He is a great wrestler and very strong, although I do have the upper hand on size and strength.  It's gonna' be a war for sure!

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Joe: That's a tricky question.  (Laughs)  There are so many shady promoters these days.  To date the best ones I have fought for would be Mike Patt of OXF and Rick Pyles of UVC - who is Sean Salmon's father-in-law.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Joe: Train hard and never get discouraged.  There are only two ways to determine a fight, W - win and L - learning experience.

Darrick: Outside of martial arts, what are your other interests?

Joe: Football, bowling, and golf.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Joe: I'm a momma's boy.  (Laughs)

Darrick: If you were stuck in a bomb shelter for the rest of your life, what three items besides food and water would you take in with you?

Joe: Four ounce MMA gloves, a heavy bag, and a ground bag.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Joe: My first pet - my Pit Bull was stolen out of my backyard when I was five years old.  I loved that dog!

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Joe Mellotte in the following places:

Official Joe Mellotte MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/joemellotte

Joe Mellotte on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Joe-Mellotte-7504

Tags: Joe Mellotte Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Shane Carwin (by Darrick Patrick)

Shane "The Monster" Carwin is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, World Extreme Cagefighting, Ring Of Fire, Art Of War, Ultimate Texas Showdown, and Extreme Wars.

Darrick: What was the path that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Shane: The path that lead me to MMA was just to have the ability to continue being competitive.  Sports are something I have enjoyed my whole life - from high level college sports to NFL camp.  This was the perfect way for me to continue my love for competition.

Darrick: Who is someone in the sport that you highly respect?

Shane: I respect Randy Couture for his humble, respectful attitude and he is simply an excellent fighter.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA?

Shane: The bottom line is to make sure you are having fun.  You need to enjoy the sport first and foremost.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Shane: I attain the most fulfillment from the competition, but I also value and enjoy the sense of family it provides.  I feel fortunate to have my own family and an extended family through MMA.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Shane: My mom, my grandma, my brothers, and my college wrestling coach Greg Waggoner.

Darrick: What does a "normal" training session for you consist of?

Shane: A typical day consists of morning strength and conditioning, then in the afternoon it's boxing, BJJ, and wrestling.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Shane: Enjoying time with my wife, hunting, fishing, and spending time with my friends.

Darrick: If you had 24 hours left to live, how would you spend that time?

Shane: With my wife on the beach.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Shane: Crying when my mom dropped me off at my first day of preschool.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Shane: When I'm at home, I like to dance for my wife.  (Laughs)

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Shane Carwin in the following places:

Official Shane Carwin MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/shanecarwin

Shane Carwin on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/shane-carwin-14013

Shane Carwin Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/14013

Tags: Shane Carwin Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Chad Griggs (by Darrick Patrick)

Chad "The Grave Digger" Griggs is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as the International Fight League, Rage In The Cage, All Power Combat, Worldwide Fighting Championship, and Total Fighting Alliance.  At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Rich Beecroft at Conflict Cage Fighting 1 on November 22nd, 2008.

Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Chad: I was invited by a friend to come and try some mixed martial arts.  It just so happened that it was the same place the legendary Don Frye trained and he was preparing for an upcoming fight.  He was in need of some bodies to beat on and before I knew it the guy I had always admired in MMA was kicking my butt.  That was it - I was hooked and Don seemed to like me because I just kept coming back for more.  So about two years later, I had my first MMA fight.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Chad: If you want to fight, put your time in at the dojo and train with some people who know the sport.  It will give you the training and confidence that you need to be successful.  Don't just jump into the cage or you'll be done before you even get started!

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Chad: My parents and grandparents are by far the most influential people in my life.  They have set the standards for me and have taught me what is most important in life and not to get caught up in the whole "worldly" thing.

Darrick: What does a typical training session for you consist of?

Chad: My workouts are always changing depending on who it is I'm fighting, such as finding their weaknesses to expose, but for the most part my sessions are usually about two and a half hours long - morning and night.  We will go over some techniques, get warmed up, and get a sweat going.  Three days a week we spar in the morning, two days we grapple in the morning.  On two days we'll grapple at night, two we spar at night, and one day we put it all together and have full MMA.  You have to be well-rounded now to get anywhere.  Somewhere in the mix of my training, I also fit weights in three or four times a week.

Darrick: Who is someone in the sport that you highly respect?

Chad: I will always hold Don Frye at the top of my list - he has been a huge part of who and what I want to become in MMA.  I don't care how old he is or is getting, he will always be one tough son of a bitch who fought his heart out and wasn't afraid to fight anyone.  I almost think he likes pain.

Darrick: What personally brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Chad: There are so many benefits to martial arts.  Whether you're wanting to compete or not, it is fun and rewarding - not to mention you stay in great shape.  Although I will say there is nothing like the feeling of victory at the end of a fight when your hand is raised and you have conquered.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Chad: I work for the Tucson Fire Department and I am a paramedic for them.  I also am married, have two kids, and I'm active in church - so, put all that together and it's a pretty good juggling act.  I'm not complaining though.  I love every aspect of my life and you have to be well-balanced!

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Chad: I don't know, I can't remember that far back.  (Laughs)  Probably my oldest memory is of my great grandpa teaching me how to set traps, catch, and skin squirrels and rabbits.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Chad: Despite what some people think about fighters, we are not all bad.  I am a very easy going guy and it takes someone really trying to piss me off before I get upset.  I think when I spend so much time in the gym fighting and proving myself, outside of the gym I am willing to take quite a bit of harassment without the need to show my dominance - but for all you fighters out there wanting a piece of me, don't mistake patience for weakness!

Darrick: What moments in your life have you been proudest of so far?

Chad: I have proud moments in many areas of life.  Obviously, my wife and kids are most precious to me and I like to think of myself as a decent husband and father.  I am proud to be a firefighter and think of this as a great accomplishment and an honor to be able to help people who are in situations where emergency help is needed.  I feel I have come a long way in the MMA world.  I'm now 8-1, but I feel I have a bit more to prove before it's all said and done.  I have a fight in a couple of weeks on the 22nd of November and after that my goal is to get into Japan - and I see it happening very soon thanks to my management team Fight Legion, who has taken very good care of me.  So, keep an eye out for The Grave Digger, I plan on making a little dust in the near future.  Please check out my website at www.chadgriggs.com and special thanks to Mr. Patrick for taking the time to interview me!

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Chad Griggs in the following places:

Official Chad Griggs Website:

http://www.chadgriggs.com

Official Chad Griggs MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/chadgriggs

Official Fight Legion Site:

http://www.fightlegion.com

Chad Griggs on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Chad-Griggs-15932

Chad Griggs Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/15932

Tags: Chad Griggs Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Derrick Noble (by Darrick Patrick)

Derrick Noble is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Bodog Fight, Hardcore Championship Fighting, SportFight, International Sport Combat Federation, Absolute Fighting Championships, Eau Claire Throwdown, Mix Fighting Championships, Madtown Throwdown, Silverback Classic, Xtreme Kage Kombat, Combat-Do Fighting Challenge, Ironheart Crown, Freestyle Combat Challenge, Euphoria, HOOKnSHOOT, and River Plex Rumble.

Darrick: What led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Derrick Noble: I saw UFC 2 in high school around '94 and I was hooked from there.  I began training with some guys, MMA events started popping up around the Midwest, and I started fighting in 2000.  I love the sport, I love the training, and I can't think of anything I would rather do - outside of an endless supply of hot chicks.

Darrick: Generally speaking, what does a typical training session for you consist of?

Derrick Noble: It depends on the day, but throughout the week I work Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, striking, and sparring.  I also do weights and cardio five days a week.  I have great training partners that are experts in each area, so I get good training.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Derrick Noble: My step-dad had a lot of influence on me athletically.  He always pushed me to work hard and be disciplined.  If I only knew in high school what I know now, his input would have had a lot more effect.  My mother has also always supported me and having the support of family is the biggest motivating factor to succeed for me.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA?

Derrick Noble: Find a good place to train.  Training with your buddies will only get you so far.  You need to have people that are experts in the different areas for MMA.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Derrick Noble: I respect a lot of fighters.  I am also a fan of several fighters.  GSP, Wanderlei, Cro Cop, Rizzo, and Fedor are just a few of the guys I always root for.  My training partners at Minnesota Martial Arts Academy are guys that I respect.  They work very hard and are very disciplined in training and it has helped me a lot.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Derrick Noble: The camaraderie of the guys that I train with.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Derrick Noble: I enjoy music and movies, but honestly most of my life revolves around MMA.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Derrick Noble: Sometimes during emotional movies I'll shed a tear.  Did I just say that?

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Derrick Noble: This interview.  Alcohol has destroyed my memory.

Darrick: If you had 24 hours left to live, how would you spend that time?

Derrick Noble: Twenty-two hours with my family and friends.  Two hours with a group of hot chicks.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Derrick Noble in the following places:

Official Derrick Noble Website:

http://www.derricknoble.com

Official Derrick Noble MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/derrickd78

Minnesota Martial Arts Academy:

http://www.mmaacombatzone.com

Derrick Noble on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Derrick-Noble-4556

Derrick Noble Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/4556

Tags: Derrick Noble Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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10 Questions With Gerald Harris (by Darrick Patrick)

Gerald "Hurricane" Harris is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as the International Fight League, C3 Fights, Fight Time Productions, Titan Fighting Championships, Freestyle Cage Fighting, and Full Contact Fighting Promotions.  He was also on the seventh season of the television show The Ultimate Fighter.

Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing in professional mixed martial arts?

Gerald: It was the "broke" path.  Honestly, I was struggling financially and a close friend that owned a MMA gym convinced me to fight for six hundred dollars.  I was only supposed to do it once, but I did so good that people asked for me in other shows.  I was teaching part time, so I decided to quit and dedicate all of my time to MMA.  Oh yeah, before that the last time I was in a fight was in the sixth grade.  I won, but it wasn't easy.

Darrick: In your experience so far, what brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Gerald: I love winning.  It feels so good to train, compete, and accomplish a goal.  I'm not into fighting - I don't even like hurting people, but it's either me or him and I gotta' put food on the table.  So, somebody has to get beat up and it ain't gon' be me!

Darrick: What does a typical training session for you consist of?

Gerald: Well, my first year of fighting I trained myself.  From August of 2006 to August 2007, I trained myself as I coached a high school wrestling team.  After my first two IFL losses, I moved to Oregon and joined Team Quest.  It was great, but I'm no longer with them.  I train with Rampage Jackson in England, California, and also with Arizona Combat Sports in Phoenix.  When I'm home I train with Ghost Dog Boxing, it's an old school gym and I love it.  Oh yeah, the answer to the question - I wrestle, box, kickbox, and spar MMA all week.  I feel that I am a true mixed martial artist now and not just a wrestler.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Gerald: Rampage obviously, because I know him as a person and not as a TV personality.  St. Pierre for his skills and attitude.  B.J. Penn for his passion and dedication to the sport.  I have a few more, but my other answers are long enough already.  I'm not trying to put anyone asleep.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Gerald: Train - this is not a gimmick.  It's all fun until you actually get in the cage.  Your life is at risk, so prepare for everything.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Gerald: My parents.

Darrick: Outside of competitive fighting, what are your other interests?

Gerald: Art, family, and eating!  I love art, if you check my MySpace folder you can see some of my work.  Family is great also because I have two children, and I eat everything in sight when I'm not training for a fight.  I didn't mean to make that rhyme.

Darrick: If you were the last person alive on Earth, what do you think you'd do to entertain yourself?

Gerald: Um, I don't think you want to know.  (Smiles)  I'm trying to keep this interview clean.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Gerald: I was so broke in college that I used to steal food from people when they weren't in their dorm rooms.  They used to leave their doors open, so I would run in and do a snatch and grab.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Gerald: When I came out of the womb, the doctor slapped my ass and my daddy punched him in the face.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

You can also check out Gerald Harris in the following places:

Official Gerald Harris Website:

http://www.geraldhurricaneharris.com

Official Gerald Harris MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/g1906

Gerald Harris on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Gerald-Harris-17903

Gerald Harris Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/17903

Tags: Gerald Harris Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts

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