|
Viewing 1 - 9 out of 297 Blogs.
Page:
1 |
|
|
|
|
10 Questions With Eric Davila (by Darrick Patrick) Eric "Bighead" Davila is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Shark Fights, King Of Kombat, Adrenaline, Bloody Knuckles Promotions, Art Of War, 5150 Combat League, Xtreme Fighting Organization, Ring Of Fire, Masters Of The Cage, Rumble In The Rockies, Superbrawl, PSDA, Extreme Challenge, and Unified Shoot Wrestling Federation. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Pete Spratt at Shark Fights 13: Jardine vs. Prangley on September 11th, 2010. Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts? Eric: I grew up in the barrios of Lubbock, Texas - so fighting was second nature to me. I started wrestling in the seventh grade and continued on into my senior year in high school. I then moved to Amarillo, Texas and had my first professional fight when I was eighteen years old. Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? Eric: Man, I really don't have anyone that influenced me too much while I was growing up. I grew up fast. Growing up where I grew up, you had to. Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Pete Spratt on September 11th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight? Eric: Pete is a good guy and it is going be tough to fight him because we have a good relationship with each other. We both understand that this is a business though and we both feed our families this way. Afterwards, we are still of course going to be good friends. That is the type of people we are. Much respect between us. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Eric: The discipline and the fulfillment of achievement. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Eric: I have a very high respect for Greg Jackson and the fighters that come out of his camp. Those people are great and extremely humble! They treat you like family. Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Eric: Strive for your dreams, but keep in mind that the road to achieving them is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work and it really depends on how bad you want it. Darrick: Outside of mixed martial arts, what are your other interests? Eric: I like to cook, go fishing, and I love football. Also, I just enjoy hanging out with my family. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Eric: Not sure which one is the oldest. I have a lot of good and bad ones. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Eric: I can't swim! (Laughs) Darrick: What moments in your life have you been proudest of so far? Eric: The birth of my children and watching them grow up in a better environment than what I did. Also, as we speak, living my dream. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Eric Davila in the following places: Official Eric Davila MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/320645767 Official Eric Davila Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/people/Eric-Bighead-Davila/100000375616934 Bighead MMA Gym on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/518115377 Eric Davila on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Eric-Davila-1011
Tags: Eric Davila Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Chad Robichaux (by Darrick Patrick) Chad "Robo" Robichaux is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Reality Combat Fighting, Legacy Promotions, Reality Check, World Vale Tudo Federation, and Battle of New Orleans. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Humberto Deleon at Strikeforce: Houston on August 21st, 2010. Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition? Chad: I have sixteen fights now, eight of them as pro. I think in the beginning though, I learned the same lessons that the young new athletes are learning today with patience. I did traditional martial arts, American and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu as a kid, so I sincerely thought I was a complete martial artist. I trained with some novice BJJ guys in California in 1996 and did well rolling, so I thought I was solid in my martial arts skill set. I found out the next year how wrong I was. In 1997, Karl Schmidt, Matthias Meister (now of Gracie Barra New Orleans), and myself walked into the Reality Self Defense Academy in Metairie, Louisiana which was headed by my long time professor and friend, Alfredo Ramirez. Josh Stuart had just fought in the UFC out of that academy and my friend Gino referred it as the right place to start if I was interested in MMA. The three of us were very humbled that night by Josh and Professor Ramirez, and then all three of us were hooked after that! Schmidt would later on become a 15-3 professional fighter, and now Meister is the head of the academy which is now Gracie Barra NOLA. I always think back of how cool it was that the three of us started together. We pushed each other every day and grew together. "Iron sharpens iron" - As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. (Proverbs 27:17) Prior to starting to fight, I was in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a Force Recon Marine. So, for the next six years I was focused on serving the country through several efforts, some of which had me living in the Middle East and Southeast Asia for three months at a time. Although I trained the entire time, to include 3.5 years with Nate “The Great” Marquardt, a lot had changed in the pro fight game while I was out. My 6-0 professional record seemed to have an expiration date on it and I had to get a current fight under my belt. So, I stepped back into the cage in 2009 and landed two quick submission wins. One over 10-3 Lewis McKenzie to earn the Legacy FC Bantamweight Title. This bumped me to the #1 ranked pound for pound fighter in my region as well as #1 in my weight division (bantamweight), and now has me booked for Strikeforce next month in Houston on August 21st. I will be fighting the #2 ranked bantamweight, Humberto Deleon. Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Chad: I always tell my students not to be too anxious to fight, learn the basics first and have a solid foundation. With that said though, the competition is a lot stiffer a decade later. At my academy, we have the students do four months of BJJ Basics before they can enter a MMA training session. Nonetheless, I was young, confident, and just as eager as the guys are now. I fought three times that same year in 1997 at a hole in the wall called the “Chop Shop”…I think back of it being kind of a foolish thing to do. No doctors, no match-ups, no weight class, or even gloves. Karl and I showed up there and the promoter asked who were the fighters and he matched us up by looking at us right there. I fought a Karate guy who had to outweigh me by 50 pounds and submitted him after about ten minutes of fighting. It was a great first experience. However, I was quickly derailed when I went that same year to Florida and fought a very seasoned Din Thomas, who submitted me in the first round. Just after that, I lost my third match and decided to get back to training hard and focusing on the basics of BJJ and wrestling. I fought again a year later and haven’t lost since. I submitted my opponents in my next five amateur matches and in all eight of my pro fights. If you have an art, know it. Drill it until you are bored. Bruce Lee said, “Learn it until you forget it”. Nothing will replace the sweat and time you put on those mats - nothing. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Chad: Renzo Gracie because of his belief in BJJ and his passion as a competitor. No one has the desire to compete like Renzo...for him, it is truly what he was born to do. He is a warrior who represents his family, his art, and what he believes in. He is also the funniest man on the planet. How can you not love this guy? Also, Nate Marquardt. We trained together for four years when I lived in Colorado. Since I moved away, we have met up to train here in Texas a few times. The thing I love about Nate is his values and character as a Godly man - it just doesn’t get any higher. He is a true complete martial artist and competitor. His work ethic is unmatched of anyone I have ever seen. Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Humberto Deleon on August 21st. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match? Chad: Humberto is a cool kid. He's a very talented young guy and a very respectful martial artist. I think he's 18-0 as an amateur with five titles or something like that, and he is 6-3 as a pro. Lots of flashy stuff such as armbars, flying knees, jumps guard, etc. It's an honor to fight him...however, I already have won this fight in my mind. There is no way that I can lose this fight. I work too hard, my BJJ is far superior, and my striking doesn’t leave any room for him to even make one mistake or he will be in major trouble. Honestly as a coach, I would be hard pressed for a strategy putting him against me. I have all the respect in the world for him, but just to be honest, I think he is in over his head. Strikeforce is a place I earned my right to be and I won’t walk in unprepared. Humberto better be ready for war because I’m going to bring it hard. I wish him the best of luck and I will see him on Aug 21st. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Chad: Coaching and seeing it change people’s lives. When I opened the Academy just three years ago, we started with a very large base of about 150 students. I was running the BJJ and MMA, and Daniel Kim focused on the Muay Thai. Now, we are right at 500 students and I don’t know too many BJJ schools with this many guys but it is an incredible thing. The energy and camaraderie in our academy is something I’ve never seen. Everyone there are friends inside and outside the academy. Having a Gracie Barra academy is a dream come true to me and the staff. It is such an opportunity and privilege to reach people looking for ways to improve their fitness, confidence, self-defense skills, and to just have a fun hobby and network of friends. You might expect a typical ego-filled gym, but when you walk into our place you’ll see something totally different...no egos and a true team. Sparring is something for the experienced and select, we mainly focus on classes and teaching. It is a lot of work but we have a great staff and everyone loves their job. It isn’t just the development of martial arts that I’m speaking of changing people. It is the core of them - their character, discipline, work ethic, personal pride, and dignity. It is an amazing thing to watch these traits develop and grow in someone. Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? Chad: I grew up with kind of a rough life. I thank God every day for my grandparents who raised me and my grandfather who taught me about hard work and accomplishing anything I wanted in life. Everyone else told me the opposite but all of my life I gravitated towards his leadership for me. He definitely inspired me to get through my Force Recon training, college, and fighting. He has seen me compete several times already, including my pro debut, and on August 21st he’ll be right there cheering me on at 77 years young and scoping out the ring girls as he always does. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Chad: God, my kids, mentoring, and when I have time...the beach. Nothing in life makes me feel more at peace than sun, sand, and warm water. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Chad: My oldest memory is probably my beginning as a martial artist. Ironic, but true. I started off in a little town called Raceland in Louisiana. Who would have knew that it would have led to this? Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Chad: I have a MBA (Masters of Business). Luckily, I finished before getting hit too many times! It was just a personal goal to me. Nobody in my family had ever been to college. Darrick: When you're no longer amongst the living, how would you most like to be remembered? Chad: As a man of character who left the world a better place than when he came into it. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Chad Robichaux in the following places: Official Chad Robichaux Website: http://www.chadrobo.tv Official Chad Robichaux MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/chadrobotv Official Chad Robichaux Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1564962879&ref=profile Official Chad Robichaux Twitter Area: http://www.twitter.com/ChadRobo Gracie Barra - North Houston Website: http://www.graciebarranorthhouston.com Gracie Barra - The Woodlands MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/chadmma Chad Robichaux on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Chad-Robichaux-25199
Tags: Chad Robichaux Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Mike Hayes (by Darrick Patrick) Mike "300" Hayes is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Strikeforce, Bellator Fighting Championships, Rumble On The Ridge, SportFight, Palace Fighting Championship, CageSport, Fight Night, Alliance Fights, Carnage At The Creek, Genesis Fights, and Ring Sports United. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Hae Joon Yang in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 26 on August 26th, 2010. Darrick: How did you end up competing professionally in mixed martial arts? Mike: I was a fan of the sport way before I ever started training or competing. I would always watch fights with my friends and comment on how I could beat both of the guys in the cage. Finally, my friends told me to quit talking and just do it. So I am...and my respect for fighters has grown considerably since I've started training and putting in the real work myself. Darrick: Who is someone that greatly influenced you while growing up? Mike: My dad was probably the person who influenced me the most. He is definitely a workaholic, usually putting in 70 to 80-hour work weeks to raise our family. And while I've never been one to want a "normal" job, I think his work ethic has been passed down to me in my training. Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Mike: I would advise people to not just rush into the sport. Take your time, learn the fundamentals, and then start taking fights. That's not at all the way I did it, but I wish that I had. I've seen too many talented and athletic guys who tried to jump in too fast, only to get knocked out or submitted. For a lot of guys, those losses are not very easy to turn into learning experiences. They lose once and then you never see them again. Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Hae Joon Yang on August 26th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight? Mike: I'm very excited for this next fight. I feel like I'm very well-prepared and that I match up extremely well with Hae Joon Yang. He's shorter than me by quite a bit and I'm stronger than I've ever been since I started fighting pro. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Mike: I get the most fulfillment from just doing something physical, stressful, and challenging with my body. I always wanted to be an athlete and I thought I missed my chance by being lazy for too long. Mixed martial arts though has given me the opportunity to really test my limits and push myself to my full potential. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Mike: One person in particular is Dan Henderson, simply for the way he handled that whole Bisping situation. He completely held back the trash talk for longer than anyone should be capable of holding back and then he shut Bisping up in the cage. Very impressive. Another person is Jon Jones. He's a very respectful and humble guy, who can smash people but never talks about it. I also admire how outspoken he is about his faith...something that is hard to do in this day and age. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Mike: I'm big on being outdoors. I backcountry ski in the winter and wakeboard during the summer. That pretty much sums up what I do outside of training and being a dad. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Mike: Not many people know that I was a very lazy teenager. I always played sports, but was never really committed. The high school football coaches begged me to play football. My response was, "Do I have to practice?" When they said yes, I'd tell them I wasn't interested. If I had half the drive back then that I have today, I'd probably be a millionaire still playing in the NFL. Darrick: If you had superpowers, what would they be? Mike: I would be able to fly. I know everybody says that, but I'm serious. I try to fly all the time anyways...cliff jumping in water, cliff jumping on skis, going big while wakeboarding and always crashing. Yeah, it would definitely be to fly and see the world from a completely different perspective. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Mike: My oldest memory was from being on my grandpa's boat. My whole family was there. My sister was in one of those baby seats that clips to the table (they probably don't make them anymore). I was playing under the table, messing with her seat. All of a sudden, she fell back and cracked her head open on the wood stove. She had to get a bunch of stitches and nobody knew it was me that caused it until about two years ago. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Mike Hayes in the following places: Official Mike Hayes Website: http://www.mike300haze.webs.com Official Mike Hayes Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1564173337 Mike Hayes on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Mike-Hayes-29144 Mike Hayes Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/29144
Tags: Mike Hayes Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Louis Taylor (by Darrick Patrick) Louis "Handgunz" Taylor is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Strikeforce, M-1 Global, Bellator Fighting Championships, Hoosier Fight Club, International Sport Combat Federation, Total Fight Challenge, Adrenaline MMA, and Corral's Combat Classic. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Joe Riggs in the main event of Strikeforce at ShoMMA 10: Riggs vs. Taylor on August 13th, 2010. Darrick: What was the road that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition? Louis: I was seeing the success of others within MMA and was looking at the direction my life was heading. I just wanted something better for me and my family. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Louis: That's a funny question because a few years ago my answer would have been from the sidelines about something I really didn't know about. Now though, I respect fighters who fight all challengers - whether or not it's considered good or bad for their careers. Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Joe Riggs on August 13th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match? Louis: It's a great opportunity for me to fight Joe Riggs and to get this win I'll be sure to be a one hundred percent sucker ducker. Taking his name to add to my fame. Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to train in MMA? Louis: The best advice I can give to those thinking of taking this path is to achieve balance. Balance the life you have right now because when it's your time you don't need anything extra in the way of your dreams. Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? Louis: The people who have had a positive influence on my life outside of my family are my high school coach Ken Bringe, my current coach Roberto Ramirez, my grandmother Sister Gladys Taylor, and all of my opponents that I face in the cage. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Louis: It's shallow, but true. The thing that really brings me the most fulfillment in martial arts is the money that I make competing. Without it, there's no doubt that I wouldn't be doing it. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Louis: My interests outside of mixed martial arts don't go further then my wife and kids these days. If it's not about them, it's about my extended family Chicago Fight Team. Darrick: What comic book character do you relate to most? Louis: Peter Parker because Mary Jane is always getting him into trouble. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Louis: There is more not known about me than there is, such as the fact that I like to write poetry and to sing for example. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Louis: Quinton "Rampage" Jackson slamming Reggie Wright during our wrestling practice in college. Afterwards, Wright punched Rampage in his eye which gave him a permanent gash in his eyebrow. That set off a brawl between the haves and have-nots on the team. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Louis Taylor in the following places: Official Louis Taylor MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/trigaboo Official Louis Taylor Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/people/Louis-Taylor/100000269955554 Chicago Fight Team Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chicago-IL/Chicago-Fight-Team/272955000057 Louis Taylor on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Louis-Taylor-25948 Louis Taylor Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/25948
Tags: Louis Taylor Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Zoila Frausto (by Darrick Patrick) Zoila "Warrior Princess" Frausto is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Strikeforce, Bellator Fighting Championships, The Warriors Cage, PureCombat, Tachi Palace Fights, Wargods, Ken Shamrock Productions, and Disturbing The Peace. At the time of this interview, her next scheduled match is against Jessica Pene in the first round of the 115-pound women's tournament of Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 25 on August 19th, 2010. Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts? Zoila: I've pretty much been an athlete and in competition since I was able to walk. I think that was due to the fact that my dad was hoping for another boy. (Laughs) Anyway, long story short, by the time I was almost done playing college soccer I found myself being too competitive and using a little too much aggression while playing. I was getting red cards left and right for hurting other players and making too much contact. I was dying for a sport that was more competitive and more of a challenge, so I figured one-on-one combat was the answer. I was in a local gym one day and found Team Pro Buhawe doing strength and conditioning for MMA. I met the guys and the trainer, Jasper Tayaba, and the rest was pretty much history. Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Zoila: Start from the very beginning. There is so much to learn. Stay focused and never give up. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Zoila: My main trainer Kru Jasper Tayaba for teaching me every bit of the art of Muay Thai which has got me to where I am today. My boyfriend/coach/mentor Jorge Gurgel for being inspirational in my journey as a world champ. Also, for having so much success in this sport and for the passion he shows while teaching and building champions. I have always been a great and strong fighter, but he helped bring the champion out of me...and for that, I have the utmost respect for him. I have also followed the career of Georges St-Pierre (GSP) for years and he has been great for the sport. He is a true professional athlete and represents mixed martial arts in one of the best ways possible. He is a great example of how a true champion should speak, look, act, and perform. Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Jessica Pene on August 19th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight? Zoila: She looks to be a good match-up for me. She is 7-0 and I am 7-1, so it should be a pretty good match. From the fights I've seen of her she looks to have good stand-up and she has finished some good fighters with submissions, but I can guarantee that I'll be going into this fight the bigger and stronger fighter. Especially having fought at 135 and 125 pounds, I'm used to fighting bigger girls and did pretty good against them, hence my 7-1 record. I feel that I will overwhelm her with my power and size, on top of my techique. I'm going into this fight and tournament as confident as ever. I am finally able to put my speed, timing, power, and accuracy together in my striking. My wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu are improving so much more as well. I'm so excited and it's still very early in my MMA career. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Zoila: The discipline and the mental focus I've been able to carry with me in my everyday life. Also, the feeling of accomplishment that I get after giving it my all in training or a fight, and pushing myself past my limits. The feeling of accomplishment in my heart is something that nobody can ever take away from me. Darrick: Are there any extra struggles being a female in mixed martial arts or do you believe it to be basically the same difficulty for both genders? Zoila: I feel we do have more hurdles as females in this sport. It's bad enough that MMA is a male-dominated sport, but I feel we have to work so much harder to be accepted within mixed martial arts. The problem I came across a lot was some men saying, "Women just don't have the power to make exciting fights. You never see knockouts in female fights. They almost always go to decisions, which makes for boring fights because the fans want to see knockouts." (Smiles) Well, I just silenced all of those men with my last fight. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Zoila: I am a complete adrenaline junkie, but I love being a woman as well. I'm into everything from riding street bikes to snowboarding, water sports, and anything really to get my heart rate up. On the other hand, I also love shopping, going to salons and spas, reading, hanging out, watching funny movies in theaters or at home, and goofing off with my sister and friends that make me laugh my ass off. Oh, and gorgeous symmetrical Brazilians with great hair, white teeth, a BJJ black belt, the confidence of a Spartan warrior, and a great sense of humor. (Laughs) Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Zoila: Getting into fist fights with older brother every single day. One short story is from when he wouldn't take me to soccer practice, so I tried to steal his truck. He ran outside and jumped on the hood, hanging on while I tried to drive to practice. He ended up jumping off, opening the door, and we went at it. Kicking, punching, and screaming. (Laughs) We were crazy kids, that's for damn sure. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Zoila: Here's an interesting fact, I did not have a single amateur fight before turning pro. I had a few Muay Thai smokers, which is like sparring with protective gear on from head-to-toe, but that was it. I guess I was just a natural when it came to one-on-one combat. I kind of consider my first five or six pro fights that I had as my amateur career because I'm still fairly new to the sport. Even though my competition was legit and were all professional, I still felt that I could've performed better with more experience...and I'm getting there. To be able to keep up with and beat the best in the world at this early stage in my MMA career, with still so much to learn, I feel that I can be an unstoppable force in the near future. Darrick: What moments in your life have you been proudest of so far? Zoila: June 24th of this year gave me my proudest moments by far! When I knocked out the number one 125-pound woman in the world, that was supposed to completely demolish me, that was the best feeling in my life ever. All my blood, sweat, and tears finally paid off. To shut up the critics and finally show everyone that I deserve to be where I'm at, it meant the world to me to accomplish something in life like that. Especially after all the hard work, sacrifices I've made, and the road I came from. Also, to see the looks on the faces of my family, trainers, and friends after my big win were moments in life I'll never forget. I brought them happiness that day and that made me feel unbelievable. God has blessed me and I'm so very happy. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Zoila Frausto in the following places: Official Zoila Frausto MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/zfrausto1 Official Zoila Frausto Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/people/Zoila-Frausto/1298012966 Official Zoila Frausto Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Zoila-Frausto-Fan-Page/368786032727 Official Zoila Frausto Twitter Area: http://www.twitter.com/zoilafrausto Zoila Frausto on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Zoila-Frausto-42572 Zoila Frausto Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/42572
Tags: Zoila Frausto Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Bart Palaszewski (by Darrick Patrick) Bart "Bartimus" Palaszewski is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as World Extreme Cagefighting, International Fight League, King Of The Cage, Xtreme Fighting Organization, Adrenaline MMA, Gracie Fighting Challenge, International Cage Combat, Madtown Throwdown, Total Fight Challenge, Icon Sport, Combat-Do Fighting Challenge, Ironheart Crown, ZST, Extreme Challenge, Shooto Americas, Freestyle Combat Challenge, River Plex Rumble, Total Combat Challenge, and Ultimate Athlete. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Zack Micklewright in World Extreme Cagefighting at WEC 50: Cruz vs. Benavidez 2 on August 18th, 2010. Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition? Bart: I started training right after I got beat up by a guy in high school. It was in first period biology class and I said something, he said something back, and then we got into it. I chose Jeff Curran's place to train at because the dude that was kicking the crap out of me was wearing one of the Team Curran shirts. True story. (Laughs) Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? Bart: That would have to be my parents, my older sister, and Jeff Curran. Jeff saw potential in me, so he was always pushing me towards training and fighting. My parents on the other hand wanted me to go to college, get an education, and hate my life...I mean, get a steady job. (Laughs) My sister is a freaking genius, so as a younger brother it was hard to follow her footsteps. Anyway, I'm glad they pushed me to go to school because the harder they pushed, the harder they pushed me away from the idea. So in a weird way, I have to thank them for that. Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Bart: My advice would have to be to take your sweet time with training and with picking fights. When I started, I took my first fight after two years of training and at the age of eighteen. Looking back, I think it was way too soon. As far as match-ups, it's hard most of time but do some research on your opponents. That was a big problem in the early stages of my career and that's why I have more losses than I like to talk about. Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Zack Micklewright on August 18th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match? Bart: The August 18th fight is going to be great. Zack is coming out of a great camp with Miletich Fighting Systems. MFS is one of the top camps in the world, I know because I spent a few years there. I'm training harder then ever and I'm really motivated for this one. Zack is a tall southpaw and I'm sure he's going to be ready, in shape, and prepared to brawl. So will I, it's going to be a great match. Everything is on track, so get ready for fireworks...that's original, right? (Laughs) Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Bart: Man, there are so many guys that I respect and look up to. I'll just list a few though. I'll start with Randy Couture for showing everyone that age is not a factor. Just train hard and right and you can do whatever you want for as long as you want. Chuck Liddell is a bad ass dude, I love his attitude in fights. He just goes out with guns blazing, I'll kill you or you'll kill me. He did most of the killing. (Laughs) Jeff Curran for being a mentor and a brother to me for the last eleven years. He definitely changed my life. I was a bit of a punk and a troublemaker - he turned me around for sure. Also, I have to say Wanderlei Silva. It's great that a guy like him has made plenty of cash and doesn't need to fight, but goes out there and puts it all on the line for his fans. That's freaking awesome. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Bart: I just love martial arts, it changed my life for the better. I was going nowhere fast until I found MMA. I would probably be stuck behind a freaking desk, working nine-to-five and hating my life. I'm doing what I love and I get paid for it. Greatest job choice ever. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Bart: I don't have many interests outside of mixed martial arts, it consumes my whole life. After a fight though, I spent a ton of time with the wife and my baby girl. I see them a lot normally, but I'm at the gym for most of the day. So after a fight we make up a lot of time. I also like to travel, not far or anything crazy - just quick one or two-day getaways with the wife to concerts or fights. No bags, just the clothes on our back and off we go. We try to do it last minute for the most part, it makes it even better. Other than that, here I come with another original...I like to hang with friends and if the weather is nice, maybe grill some food and have a few beers. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Bart: I don't know if I should, man. This is my dark secret...ah, screw it. (Laughs) I love all vampire movies, but yes I'm a TwiHeart. I love the Twilight movies. Now, I hope I don't get jumped for this. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Bart: My oldest memory...hmmm. Well, in MMA it would have to be the day that I signed up for training on May 15th, 1999. In my life? Shit, that's going back to sometime when I was between four and six years old. It was at a preschool costume party and I was Zorro. Man, I'm just opening up here. It's like a therapy session. (Laughs) Darrick: If you had 24 hours left to live, how would you spend that time? Bart: I would definitely spend the time with my family, mostly with my baby girl. I would just do whatever she would want to do. She'd probably just boss me around and have about a ton of chocolate. She is the best thing that has ever happened to me, she's the love of my life. No matter what happens and how my day goes, as soon as I see her or hear her voice it puts a smile on my face. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Bart Palaszewski in the following places: Official Bart Palaszewski MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/bartimus7 Official Bart Palaszewski Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/people/Bart-Palaszewski/648589482 Official Bart Palaszewski Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/bartimusmma Bart Palaszewski on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Bart-Palaszewski-3496 Bart Palaszewski Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/3496
Tags: Bart Palaszewski Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Art
10 Questions With John Salter (by Darrick Patrick) John Salter is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, King Of The Cage, Capital City Cage Wars, Ultimate Event Promotions, and Adrenaline MMA. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Phil Baroni in the Ultimate Fighting Championship at UFC 118: Edgar vs. Penn 2 on August 28th, 2010. Darrick: How did you end up competing professionally in mixed martial arts? John: I started wrestling when I was twelve years old. Years later, my roommate in college was from Huntington Beach and he kept talking about Tito Ortiz. I didn't know who that was at the time, so he showed me a video and that got me hooked. Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? John: The only thing that I have to say is be ready to work hard and don't expect it to happen fast. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? John: I guess the athlete that I respect the most is Georges St-Pierre because of the fact that he is so well-rounded. I also really respect Rich Franklin for being so open about his faith. Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Phil Baroni on August 28th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight? John: I think that this is a great fight for me. He is a big name and a great fighter with a lot of heart, but I think that this match-up works out well for me. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? John: Well, it doesn't happen a lot but when I can submit BJJ black belts, it makes my day. Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? John: I would say my parents had more influence on me than anybody else. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? John: My girlfriend and I like to take our two dogs out to the lake every chance we get. It is a lot of fun for me. Darrick: If you had superpowers, what would they be? John: I would definitely take Spider-Man's powers. When he swings from the web, he looks way cooler than any of the other superheroes. Also, this is actually an argument that my friends and I have often - I think he is smart enough to beat all of the other superheroes. (Laughs) Darrick: What is your oldest memory? John: My oldest memory is hunting with my dad. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. John: I think that most people assume that I like to party since I am a professional athlete, but when I'm not training I am usually just playing with my dogs or fishing. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out John Salter in the following places: Official John Salter MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/johnsaltermma Official John Salter Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=159503576 John Salter on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/John-Salter-44683 John Salter Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/44683
Tags: John Salter Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Nick Osipczak (by Darrick Patrick) "Slick" Nick Osipczak is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, FX3, and ZT Fight Night. He also appeared on the ninth season of the television show The Ultimate Fighter: United States vs. United Kingdom. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Greg Soto in the Ultimate Fighting Championship at UFC 118: Edgar vs. Penn 2 on August 28th, 2010. Darrick: What was the road that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition? Nick: I was always most interested in the sparring side of things when I was practicing martial arts. I found I took to it easily. Over time, I gradually progressed and developed the skills to be able to compete in the "ultimate proving ground" known as the Octagon. Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up? Nick: Nobody in particular. I read a lot on crime when I was younger and I think this may have inspired me to not get a 9 to 5. Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Nick: Be sure to get a good instructor/team and train hard! Make it a lifestyle, which means sacrifices. Follow the three Ds: dedication, determination, and discipline. Also, get plenty of experience fighting as an amateur/semi-pro before turning to the professional side of the sport. Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Greg Soto on August 28th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match? Nick: I'm excited. He is a good grappler, which excites me more than fighting a boring wrestler. I'll be looking to finish him one way or another, and in his own backyard. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Nick: Putting the techniques I've learned in practice into a real fight scenario. Something which I've spent thousands of hours working towards. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Nick: Fedor Emelianenko, Georges St-Pierre (GSP), and Anderson Silva to name a few. These are hard-working, well-rounded, excellent fighters who are also humble and down-to-earth. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Nick: Drinking and hanging out with friends. I also enjoy teaching students at my club New Wave Academy. You can take a look at our website at www.new-wave-academy.com for more information. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Nick: Not sure which is the oldest, but all of my earliest memories revolve around food! Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Nick: I like to sleep ten hours a night, then have a one-hour nap each day. Darrick: What moment in your life have you been proudest of so far? Nick: I look back most fondly on my win over Matt Riddle and beating him in front of 17,000 UK fans as a 3-1 underdog. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Nick Osipczak in the following places: Official Nick Osipczak Website: http://www.slicknickmma.com Official Nick Osipczak Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/people/Nick-Osipczak/508159686 Official Nick Osipczak Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nick-Osipczak-Slick-Nick-MMA-Fighter-Official-Group/82946486933 Official Nick Osipczak Twitter Area: http://www.twitter.com/slicknickmma New Wave Academy Website: http://www.new-wave-academy.com New Wave Academy Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=11283855710 Nick Osipczak on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Nick-Osipczak-30033 Nick Osipczak Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/30033
Tags: Nick Osipczak Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
10 Questions With Brent Weedman (by Darrick Patrick) Brent Weedman is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Bellator Fighting Championships, Elite Fighting Alliance, Legends Of Fighting, United Fight League, Wild Bill's Fight Night, American Fight League, MMA Xtreme, HOOKnSHOOT, and World Extreme Fighting. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against John Troyer in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 23 on June 24th, 2010. Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts? Brent: My father was a police officer for thirty years and trained recruits when I was young. He studied full contact Karate, very similar to Kyokushin (e.g. Georges St-Pierre and many K-1 fighters) and trained me from a very young age. I started Judo at eight years old and have fought my whole life. I transitioned into MMA about five or six years ago and decided to get serious about it in 2006. Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect? Brent: I respect any fighter who trains properly. This means not partying and living a "loose" lifestyle, then wanting to call yourself a fighter a few nights a week. Training for real means denying yourself a normal life during those periods of time. Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against John Troyer on June 24th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight? Brent: It's a great match-up. I know John personally and he is one of the toughest guys I've ever faced. He's big and strong and has made a career out of grinding out tough wins and wearing guys down. It's a fantastic fight, especially for the local fans who know both of us well. Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts? Brent: The days when specific techniques finally start to click. As we add more and more difficult elements to my game, I have to work even harder to force them to work. After weeks (or months...or years) of killing myself, every once in a while I will have a day where everything becomes clear. Those days make the gut-wrenching training more than worth it. Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA? Brent: Start with a base. There is simply too much to realistically expect to come in and "learn MMA." Dedicate yourself to an art and become proficient before moving onto something else prematurely. Secondly, you need to seek out the most qualified trainers. Trainers with little to no real experience are a dime a dozen, and while you may have a little early success you will have trouble transitioning to a higher level of competition. Oh, and be willing to travel to where the best training is. Darrick: Who is someone that greatly influenced you while growing up? Brent: My father is my hero and the toughest man I've ever known. He spent three decades of his life seeking out the most dangerous segments of society and placing himself between them and the rest of us. In other words, you can tell he's undefeated because he's still alive. Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests? Brent: I love learning about science, especially astronomy and physics. I'm a fan of sports in general, and second only to fighting is my love of American football - go Green Bay Packers! I'm very happily married to my beautiful wife of four years, Emily, and I enjoy traveling and finding new experiences in life to share with her. Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know. Brent: I suppose the fact that I'm an astronomy nut is news to those who don't know me very well. Also, I haven't eaten meat for a few years. Most people find that a little surprising. Darrick: What is your oldest memory? Brent: I have a few memories just before and during my younger brother's birth, which would've made me three or four years old at the time. 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? Brent: My wife, a fully loaded eReader, and a guitar. FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835 You can also check out Brent Weedman in the following places: Official Brent Weedman MySpace Profile: http://www.myspace.com/louisvillebrent Offical Brent Weedman Facebook Site: http://www.facebook.com/brent.weedman Official Brent Weedman Twitter Area: http://www.twitter.com/brent_weedman Brent Weedman on Fight Finder: http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Brent-Weedman-9869 Brent Weedman Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com: http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/9869
Tags: Brent Weedman Darrick Patrick Interview Interviews Mma Mixed Martial Arts
Page:
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
