Monthly Archives: March 2013

An international student of all martial arts, Australian Alex Chambers will make her Invicta FC debut April 5^th against undefeated fellow Strawweight Jodie Esquibel at Invicta FC 5.

Starting to study karate as a child, martial arts is a lifestyle for Chambers, and she has grown into a well rounded fighter beginning to find her place in the world of MMA. Part of a three fighter Australian invasion at Invicta along with Bec Hyatt and Fiona Muxlow, Chambers will be looking to make a successful US debut on April 5^th.

Corey Smith: I understand there is some family history in martial arts. Is that what first drew you martial arts? What keeps your competing in the sport now?

Alex Chambers: Yeah, my uncle always brings up training with Chuck Norris (briefly) and has kinda become a family joke. When I was a child he (my uncle) got me and my cousins into karate because he thought it was important to learn self defense and also the underlying values inherent in traditional/classical martial arts (discipline, self-confidence, etiquette, etc.).

AC:  While as a kid I was really happy on my karate planet doing that, MMA has become a whole universe for me to explore. That’s what has kept my interest. Having said that I do still think it’s important not to forget where you came from, otherwise you get lost.

CS: You previously stated that MMA is a lifestyle for you, not a trend. What did you mean by that?

AC: Just the same as when I did Karate as a child, it went through a phase of hype where people did it just to do it, because everyone else was doing it. While its great MMA is taking off and becoming really popular it has also led to people doing it for the wrong reasons.

CS: It’s common for fighters to have a home gym, but also to take a few weeks to train somewhere else. Who or where was someplace or someone that you learned much more than you were expecting to?

AC: While I have learnt many good things traveling, the biggest thing I get out of it is being able to get a bit of perspective (of where my level is at) and refreshes my interest in training again (a change in environment, commitments, training partners etc). It also makes me appreciate how good my gym is and how good my coaches are.

CS: You have trained many times in Japan, with among others Megumi Fujii, what advantage is there to training in Japan?

AC: It’s a different way of training over there and its not often I get to train with girls of a similar weight (or any weight for that matter), and for the girls to be some of the best fighters in the world, makes the experience even more unique.

AC: Obviously training with Megumi Fujii at her gym AACC in Tokyo Japan has been the highlight of my experience training elsewhere at another gym. I didn’t realize I would have such direct training with one of the best MMA fighters in the world. I really wasn’t expecting that. She also has some of the top ranked female fighters in the world training in her team, which makes the experience even more invaluable.

AC: I remember the first time I visited AACC sitting on the side watching Megumi Fujii warming up, I couldn’t believe my eyes, I had seen her on video, on the internet, and to see her training in person was so surreal. To actually be able to train with her was a dream come true.

CS: What are the major differences between fighting in Japan and fighting in Australia?

AC: In terms of the rules of the actual fights, the ground and pound rules vary (with special rules required for ground and pound in Japan for female MMA promotion Jewels, and usually only allowed for championship matches).

AC: In terms of the overall experience, because martial arts is a big part of Japanese history and culture the crowds and the whole is experience is so different and whilst they still like a big KO, they also appreciate the complexities of the different disciplines of martial arts in MMA.

AC: Which we are now seeing the crowds appreciate and understand more and more outside of Japan too. It was a real honor to get the opportunity to fight on a card in Japan, and I would definitely like to again one day.

CS: You are among several fighters for Invicta that hail from Australia, Bec Hyatt and Fiona Muxlow being the others. How small is the MMA community in Australia? Or is it similar to the US, with fight camps all over the country?

AC: Aussie invasion at Invicta FC 5, pretty cool huh! With the popularity of MMA growing, there seems to be a lot of MMA gyms popping up all over the country. Recently a UFC gym opened up in Sydney which seems to be developing even more interest.

AC: However, I don’t think it is as developed here as the USA just yet. Don’t get me wrong, we still have a few quality MMA camps over here, just not as many.

CS: On the subject of the US, you are very familiar with the United States having visited countless times, but have never fought here. Is there anything in particular that you are looking forward to when you make your stateside debut on April 5^th?

AC: Getting my hand raised is number 1. I’m really looking forward to meeting and getting to know some of the other fighters. I might have to make a stop on the West Coast, sad to say I need a fix of In and Out Burger. I’m also going to see New York City for a few days whilst I’m there. All my other visits have been on the West Coast so I’m really excited to go there.

CS: Leading up to your most recent fight, you were ill beforehand. How much did that affect you considering you were still able to secure a win? Do you think your opponent was aware of your illness?

AC: You never fight at 100 percent, and can’t expect to. There can always be something bothering you if you let it. As soon as the cage door closes and you get that adrenalin rush, you soon overcome/forget any illness or injury.

CS: This will be your first fight for Invicta FC. How has your experience been so far with the company?

AC: It’s been great. They are very organized and professional and from watching all their previous fight cards Invicta looks like an awesome promotion. I’m so happy to have the opportunity to fight for them, so I will be giving it my all come fight time.

CS: Your opponent on April 5^th, Jodie Esquibel, has less MMA bouts on her record than you, but brings a large amount of boxing experience with her. What are you expecting out of the bout?

AC: She is undefeated in MMA and you never really know the full depth of experience fighters may have outside of MMA. I’m definitely not underestimating the challenge.

CS: When you are in the cage, what do you expect from your corners? Do you allow all your corners to coach, or do you have a main voice that you look to?

AC: I do have a main coach, Liam Resnekov, so he is the one I listen to when I am fighting.

CS: Outside of preparation for your fights, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?

AC: I try not to miss any big promotions either in the USA or in Japan. Luckily with the internet now, being able to get PPV on it I am able to see most events live, which we didn’t used to be able to do here in Australia. We would have to go to a local bar to watch it via satellite. Of course I also like to get to any local promotions that are being held and support Australian MMA.

CS: When you aren’t in the gym or the cage, what types of activities do you enjoy? How do you mentally unwind after a long day of camp?

AC: Growing up on the beach I find it a really relaxing place to go to unwind, even if it is just a walk or sitting on the sand watching the waves and surfers. I also play a bit of Black Ops (Call of Duty) occasionally, but I don’t know if I consider that unwinding!

CS: Lastly, MMA is as much an individual sport, as it is a team sport. Who would you like to thank?

AC: Definitely couldn’t have the opportunities I have today without such a great team of coaches, training partners and friends behind me.  My head coaches Liam and Dylan Resnekov at VT1 Mixed Martial Arts academy (vt1mma.com.au).

AC:  Also coaches Eddy, Graham, Adam and Jeff for their time and effort. All my training partners and friends at VT1, you guys are awesome (thanks for putting up with me).

Special thanks to training partner Glen for always being there for me. My strength and conditioning Coach Jason Gulati of Real Training (real-training.com.au) for always getting me fighting fit and strong.

AC: Thank you to my sponsors Level Clothing, and Tussel FightGear for their continuous support. Also thank you to my new sponsor Bloodbath Fightwear (www.bloodbath.com.au).  Thank you to Kya Pate of Brace for War for supporting WMMA in Australia.

AC: Last but not least, thank you to the fans, you guys are awesome!

Taking a step up in competition, Leslie Smith is eager to enter the cage with former World Champion, Sarah Kaufman on April 5^th at Invicta FC 5.

A three time Invicta veteran, Smith will look to capitalize on her biggest opportunity to date, and climb the rungs of the 135lb ladder. A lover of botany, she will attempt to plant a big one on Sarah Kaufman April 5^th, and continue her growth towards the top of the 135lb division.

Corey Smith: You began your MMA training cold turkey so to speak, at a gym in Colorado Springs. You took your first amateur bout a little over five years ago. How long from the point you began training until you took that first bout?

Leslie Smith: I trained for two weeks before my coach asked if I wanted to take a fight three weeks later.  I had been bummed that I was going to have to wait for three months to take a fight because I realized that if I was going to get good it was going to take a lot of devotion. If I was going to be devoted I wanted to make sure I liked fighting. So I was really excited when the opportunity to get into the cage came up so soon.

LS: I was a little worried that my lack of skill made the fight more of a freak show than a display of fighting ability.  My coach at the time, Chuck Daly, said that a good fight is determined by how well the fighters match up, and I have seen that proven many times.

LS: The first fight I was offered was a total of 5 weeks after I started training.  She was in better shape than me and everybody said they thought my coach was leading me to a slaughter, but I knocked her out in the second round.  I got a standing ovation from the enthusiastic crowd and a sponsor offered to give me $300 a month.  Needless to say I was ecstatic and hooked.

CS: How soon did you get the nickname “The Peacemaker?” And how did a nickname that seems like a contradiction come about?

LS: I know fighters aren’t supposed to pick their own name but I was tossing around names for literally years and when somebody suggested ‘Peacemaker’ I really liked it.  I like all the contradictions in it and the fact that it can have a meaning to almost everybody.  Lots of people call their gun, their bat, or their power punching hand their peacemaker.

LS: I am a big fan of peace and down on passive violence.  I think it is a lot healthier to get out aggressions in the ring or cage or cardio kickboxing class than to let them fester and manifest themselves in destructive behavior to ourselves, our friends, families and community members.  Even being a spectator to fights provides an outlet for the frustrations and aggressions that we all feel and outlets are necessary to prevent major blowouts.  I also think sometimes you need to fight for peace inside your own mind and in the world.  Women still have to fight for respect and we all have to fight for the people that can’t fight for themselves.

CS: At what point did you join the Cesar Gracie Fight Team, and how did that come about?

LS:  My second pro fight was against Kerry Vera, Brandon Vera’s wife, on a Bellator card.  I wasn’t prepared to fight at that level and I decided that if I was going to call myself a professional I had better train like one.  I didn’t find the cohesion in my training that I wanted in Colorado Springs so I moved to the Bay area.

LS: My aunt lives in Oakland and she said I could come live with her, and train. I Googled all the fight schools in the area and decided to go to as many of them as I could for a free week to scam free training, unfortunately they all charged a drop in fee.

LS: I read a Sherdog post about the CesarGracieJiuJitsuAcademy and on their website they had a picture of Jake Shields.  I decided that if Jake’s picture was any indicator of the rest of the team, I would at least be working with good looking guys!  I came for a day, saw that they were legit and focused and had practices twice a day, which was what I decided was my minimum, and stuck around.

CS: Along with yourself, Alexis Davis, and Sarah D’Alelio are also members of the team. How much do you benefit from having such talented women in and around the gym every day?

LS:  I am very lucky to have such talented and established fighters around me to train with. I just worked with Alexis this morning, and she fought Kaufman recently so she had a lot of information for me. I get to work with Alexis Davis, Sarah D’Alelio, another woman you’ll see at Invicta 5, Mariam Nakamoto, and Jennifer Tate.  There is a wealth of knowledge and fight experience that I can tap into.

CS: Has there been a non-team member that you have trained with that has impressed you?

LS:  I got to go down to Huntington Beach and work with Cris ‘Cyborg’ Santos.  She is super impressive in all departments and I learned a lot from spending just a little bit of time with her.

CS: Other than weight cutting, what is the biggest challenge in the sport of MMA for you personally?

LS: There is a balance of humility and confidence that is important to maintain, it’s like pulling a string in two different directions and trying to keep it level even though you’re standing with each foot in a different boat. It is important to stay humble because that’s how I stay open to learn things and find challenges in dealing with every training partner. It is also important to be confident because confidence is key. When you believe in yourself you can do anything.

LS: When I start a training camp I focus the most on learning new skills and so the humility is important but I still have to be confident in the skills I already have. When I am at the end of the training camp I have to have confidence in everything I do and everything I have learned but I am sparring with beasts and it takes humility to be comfortable with getting smashed. I train with UFC fighters, Jiu Jitsu world champions, pro boxers, and champion Muay Thai fighters, so I am good at dealing with being uncomfortable.

CS: You have fought on Invicta 1, 3, and 4, along with being scheduled to fight Sarah Kaufman on Invicta FC 5 in April. What makes Invicta different from other MMA organizations?

LS:  Invicta takes care of their female fighters, we aren’t just an afterthought thrown onto the card to attract a few extra ticket buyers.  I had my doubts about fighting on an all-female card in the beginning but I am so happy with Invicta and the opportunities they have afforded me. I have an extra reason to fight hard now; to show my appreciation to them.

CS: With respect to your previous opponents, Sarah Kaufman represents a leap in competition for you. What excites you about this fight and what do you expect from Kaufman?

LS:  I expect Kaufman to bring it. I’m not going to have to chase her around the cage, she will be there whenever I want and that is exciting to walk into a fight knowing. I look forward to Kaufman bringing out the best in me and I am looking to bring out the best in her. She is a very accomplished fighter and I am eager to show how bad I want it.

CS: When you aren’t training, what type of things do you enjoy doing? What helps you unwind after a long day of training camp?

LS: I like to read a lot, books about dragons and historical fiction and most recently two awesome books have been The Botany of Desire and Born To Run. I like to garden, and play with my dogs and go hiking. I’m lucky to have a wonderful boyfriend who I love to hang out with so my time is always happily occupied. I can’t remember the last time I said I was ‘bored’ and I laugh thinking that I was foolish to ever think there ‘wasn’t anything cool to do’.

CS: You’ve mentioned that you have a love of gardening and botany. What draws you to those hobbies?

LS:  The truth of the growth cycle of plants is a calming influence on my soul. There is an honesty is growing plants that interactions with humans just can’t imitate.

CS: Lastly, MMA is equally a team sports as it is an individual sport. Who would you like to thank?

LS: I want to thank my coaches Alessandro Ferreira and Mark Wine for working with me every single day. I can’t name all people who have helped me but pretty much everybody that is part of the GracieFighter team, especially the Skrap Pack faction, has made me better.

LS: Cris Cyborg opened the doors of her camp to help me. Gilbert Melendez is super supportive even though he has a title fight coming up, he has still been helping me, same thing with Nathan Diaz. Of course I have to thank Cesar Gracie.

LS: My sponsors Loyalty Before Royalty, Hella High Oakland, Dirty Pirate Skate Shop, Brentwood Embroidery, and Sip Moscato are all awesome!

Looking to provide main event level excitement at her Invicta FC debut on April 5^th, Kathina Catron will step into the cage against fellow prospect Rose Namajunas.

Ready for anything at Invicta FC 5, Catron will attempt to add a win to her current 2-1 record. With a healthy 5-0 amateur career, every time she has stepped into the cage, someone has been finished. Well rounded in all aspects of MMA, Catron will try to stand out in a talented 125lb division at Invicta FC 5 April 5^th.

Corey Smith: What first drew you to the world of mixed martial arts? At what point did it go from something you were starting to learn, and become a passion?

Kathina Catron: I first started getting interested in MMA, when I met my boyfriend and now coach Scott Lowe. I wanted to use it to get in shape and loss weight. Then I had a boxing match and decided that I wanted to do MMA. I’ve not missed a day of training since.

CS: All five or your amateur MMA bouts ended with your hand raised after a knockout. What did you learn in those fights that you couldn’t train for?

KC: I think the biggest thing I learned that you really can’t train for, is the speed of the fight.

CS: After your successful amateur career, you turned pro. Along the same lines, what did you learn in your professional bouts as opposed to the amateur ones?

KC: I think as a pro I’ve learned that the competition is well-rounded, so you can’t be a one dimensional fighter.

CS: With a rash of MMA injuries forcing changes to many MMA cards how do you manage training hard, but not over doing it to the point of injury?

KC: My coach really looks out for me and designs our workouts to cut down on injury.

CS: Your last opponent, Nicole Gaza had problems making the weight cut to 115lbs, and the bout was changed to a 125lb contest. How much do you feel that affected the outcome of the fight?

KC: All I’m going to say is when I fight at 125lb I’m walking around 135lb a week out. When we got the call one week out I was setting at 119lb and had to eat like crazy to get back to 125lb. The night of the fight I was at 129lb, but in the end I accepted the fight and it was a learning experience for us.

CS: You will be making your Invicta debut on April 5^th at Invicta FC. How has your experience with the company been like so far?

KC: It’s been great! They are very organized and treat the fighters with the up most respect.

CS: Thus far, Invicta cards have been known for being excited top to bottom. How motivated are you to help continue this steak on April 5^th? What are your thoughts on the 115lb weight class in Invicta?

KC:  I’m very motivated, I want them to remember our fight as if it was the main event.

KC: The 115lb class is an amazing group of talent and I’m excited to get to compete in it.

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 5, Rose Namajunas, brings a well-rounded game with her into the cage. How familiar are you with her? What are you expecting out of the bout?

KC: Rose is Pat Berry’s girlfriend, so I think everyone is familiar with her. I was lucky enough to get to attend her pro debut with Invicta FC 4 and she is a very talented fighter.

KC: I know she is very well-rounded, so I will have to be prepared to go where ever this fight goes.  So, I expect for our bout to be a war and I’m very excited to get to fight such a young talent.

CS: Outside of fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for the enjoyment? Anyone in particular you are a fan of?

KC: I get to watch a lot of MMA because we go to the local fight circuit almost every weekend with my teammates. When we aren’t at fights we like to watch UFC and Bellator. I’m a big fan of Jose Aldo, Ben Henderson and of course WMMA fighters.

CS: Inside the cage, whose voice do you look to the most? What type of feedback do you like to receive from your coaches?

KC: I look to my coach Scott Lowe for my instructions in the cage.

KC: Brutal Honesty

CS: Outside of the cage, what do you enjoy doing for fun? What helps you to unwind after a long day of training camp?

KC: I enjoy spending time with my son and boyfriend Scott Lowe.

KC: I like to soak in a hot shower, and relax with my two main men.

CS: Lastly, MMA is as much a team sport as it is an individual sport. Who would you like to thank?

KC: I would like to thank my coach Scott Lowe and all my teammates at Battle Ground MMA,  my strength coach Greg Richmond at GTR Fitness, my #1 fan Coy, ASMM Brett Atchley, Dr. Taverni, Vll A.D, Klench Mouthguard, Tussell, Combative Gear, Fight Soap, Throat Punch, Cherokee Nation, Dream Catcher Sports, and all my family, friends, and fans!!

KC: Without all of these great people I wouldn’t be able to do what I do.

Missouri’s own Mollie Estes, returns to the Invicta cage for the first time since Invicta FC 1, on April 5^th when she squares off against Invicta newcomer, Veronica Rothenhausler.

Fighting in the 145lb division, former professional rugby player Estes, wants to welcome Rothenhausler to Missouri in a rude fashion. In front of what will surely be a hometown crown, Estes will tangle with Rothenhausler on April 5^th, at Invicta FC 5.

Corey Smith: I understand Jiu-Jitsu is what initially drew you into mixed martial arts. How did that come about?

Mollie Estes: Actually I drove by it. There was a sign that said “ju jitsu” off of a busy street. I pulled in the parking lot and wrote down their info off of the window, Googled it and thought, hmmm, sounds like fun.

ME: I had just “retired” (as ruggers call it) from an 8 year rugby career with the Kansas City Jazz WRC. I was trying to figure out what non-team sport I could participate in to stay in shape. That was in September of 2008 and I have been hooked since

CS:  After Jiu-Jitsu, you moved into training Muay Thai. Which art do you feel fits you more naturally?

ME: In high school they called me the “Mahler” which was actually my first initial and maiden name (Ahlers), but it fit my prototype. I was aggressive, not graceful. I started Muay Thai training to find the graceful bird inside of me! Needless to say I enjoy grappling above head kicks, but soaking it all in and being able to filter what I think I can use to my advantage is key.

CS: Along with MMA, you used to play rugby. Which sport is tougher?

ME: When we would recruit new rugby players our first comment to them would always be, “You are going to get hurt.” I played 15 on 15, which means 80 minutes of tackling, getting up, getting tackled, stepped on, and getting up again.

ME: We played every Saturday during the season and I have witnessed on the field broken femurs, compound fractures, always a broken nose, dislocated shoulders, cracked ribs… I could go on. In MMA one trains for a few weeks for one fight which could last 1 minute or 15 minutes. Damage is sure to occur in either sport, but exposure is far less with MMA. The level of fitness is comparable as well.

CS:  You went 7-1 over your Amateur career. What were the best lessons that you learned from those fights?

ME: Going into my first fight I had never really punched someone. I remember thinking how surreal it was. I was about to step into a cage, hurt this girl, and I wasn’t going to be in the least amount of trouble for it (no fouls!). I was so excited!

ME: People always ask me if I am scared before a fight. I explain to them, “I am not stepping into a cage with a 250 pound man with a knife, so no, I am not scared.”

ME: Other lessons learned: When one wins a fight swiftly he or she hasn’t been put to the test. But when the fighter is put to the test and triumphs does the win feel earned.

ME: My first 5 round fight as an ammy, that lasted 4 of the 5 rounds, was the first time I remember feeling truly exhilarated. It was against Marciea Allen in Watertown, SD.

ME: My first lost: 2010 In Las Vegas Tuff N Uff. I learned that the little fighters can be fast as hell! TJ Cunanan buzzed me with a right and to be honest I have no memory of that fight. I don’t think she had to cut to make our fight weight of 135 and I think I was back at 150 the next day after weigh ins. I learned a lot more about nutrition and diet after that fight. Shout out to my nutritionist Ethan Benda at Fitinkc.com!

CS:  You were a part of the inaugural Invicta card last year. What was it like to be on the first card for a promotion like Invicta?

ME: Dreamy! When Janet Martin speaks, people listen. I wanted to shout to everyone every day, “Do you realize how historical this is?” “How could you NOT have tickets yet!?” I was thankful that they chose Kansas City and I felt truly blessed.

ME: Who has had Don House wrap their hands? Me! I really feel like I would have said yes to fight anyone, luckily they are fair matchmakers, ha!

CS: You live just outside Kansas City, how many friends and family showed up for that fight?

ME: My fight family is large. I knew a lot of people there that night. I probably had at least 200 friends there. I had some family there too, but to be honest they prefer to hear about it later. It is still tough for many of them to watch in person. Even some of my friends admitted that they kept their eyes closed most of the fight. I am ok with that because they were there to support me.

ME: They would have not been there for any other reason.

ME: I am uniquely excited for the diehard fans that flew across the country to be there. The type of fans that purchase UFC tickets and know every single fact about MMA are the ones that I get excited to see because they will be back time and time again whether I am fighting or not.

CS: What do you think Invicta means for the sport of women’s mixed martial arts?

ME:  I always had this gut feeling that when no one is around Shannon (Knapp) and Dana (White) speak alien to each other. An android type of clicking with pops and whistles. I do not know what type of relationship they have but Dana’s strategic comments defacing women in the UFC, then Shannon’s rising from the ashes, now 10 UFC WOMEN signed up. Those two are beings from a higher thinking planet if you were to ask me.

ME: Either that or they are the type to put it all on RED at the casinos and have the money to risk it. I am just enjoying the view from the sidelines.

CS: Before your bout last year against Randi Miller, you began to train in wrestling for the first time. Most of your wrestling training occurred at HDMMA, a gym in Kansas City, operated by longtime MMA veterans Jason High and LC Davis How far has your wrestling progressed? What type of support do most female competitors receive from their male counterparts?

ME:  I did train a lot with LC Davis, Jason High, and the HD MMA crew before my last fight. I had my first ever wrestling practice there at the age of 36 J. I have to be honest, the most I have learned since then has been through my two boys’ (ages 8 and 9) wrestling meets. They both won state at their rookie state championships this year.

ME: I have had great support from my male counterparts, although I have heard stories of negative things like a guy showing off because he outweighs his sparring partner (a female) by 50 pounds and ends up hurting her.

ME: I haven’t witnessed this, but I have had female fighters reach out to me since I am somewhat of a role model and confess some issues they face. I feel that I have managed to avoid this scrutiny partially because I am one of the larger female fighters. There are a lot of guys my size in the gym that I am able to go all out with and neither one of us will injure the other.

ME: Training with Jason High and LC Davis was like this. The only bruises that I received from LC was from his elbows on the top of my foot, but that is because I was trying to liver kick him!

ME: What I told a friend the other day was this, “You know when you become a fighter and are no longer just a “girl” at the gym. It’s when they kick and elbow you in the chest because they have forgotten that you have boobs.”

CS: Your  original opponent at Invicta FC 5 on April 5^th, Veronica Rothenhausler sustained an injury in training. After a few other injuries left Julia Budd without an opponent, you have agreed to step into the cage with her. What were your thoughts on accepting the change in opponent so close to the fight?

ME: I’m blessed with such a great opportunity! Win or lose, it’s a win-win for me. I plan to do my best. Wish me luck!

CS: Inside the cage, what type of instruction do you like to receive from your coaches?

ME: Do you ever work out to the Bas Ruten audio CD’s? He shouts out what you do next and you just follow it. I love it when my corner does that. It’s helped so many times and is almost an instinctive process.

ME: What I mean by that is one fight Sarah Schneider was my corner. She has a soft voice and after I won in the 2^nd round by a standing guillotine, I remember her coming out celebrating my win and saying, “You did great! You did everything I said!” I didn’t tell her that I didn’t hear a word she said.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any superstitions or routines that you have to perform?

ME:  I don’t eat any food less than 4 hours before my event. I like my hair braided the same day that I fight. I never shave my legs on fight day, although I do shave the night before. I like to nap and relax the day of my fight. Nothing exciting.

ME: If my corner is super nervous I like to play jokes. One time I hid my mouthpiece and as we were about to come out I asked, “where’s my mouth piece!?” No one could find it, then I pulled it out, “Oh, there it is!” and just started laughing at their pale faces.

CS: Outside of the gym, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you recharge from a long day of training camp?

ME:  I am a work-a-holic. I have a commercial janitorial company that I have owned and operated for 12 years (www.abmaintenance.com). I also have a tattoo shop located at 1005 Westport Rd., KC, MO 64111 (Timeless Tattoo KC on FB). If I am not working on that I love spending time with my boys at Lake Lotawana, MO.

CS: Lastly, MMA is as much a team sport as it is an individual one. Who would you like to thank?

ME: I am so very thankful for my dojo, Steve Crawford’s American Ju Jitsu and happy that their new home has moved into my 2^nd home which is 68 Inside Sports, Overland Park, KS.

ME:  Also thankful for trainers and training partners: Damiyahn Smith, Sarah Schneider, mit and cardio specialist Austen Ford, Muay Thai trainer Bryan Carroll, kickboxing instructor Mr. Dwane F. Lewis Jr., my friends at Brian Davidson’s Grindhouse, my Pink Ponies, nutritionist Ethan Benda, my chiropractor Dr Mladenoff and founder of IStressedOut.com. I’ll stop there, but there is always more.

Vicious knockout artist Veronica Rothenhausler returns to the Invicta cage on April 5^th, at Invicta FC 5.

Looking to put the 145lb division on notice, Rothenhausler will look to remain unbeaten when she squares off against Kansas City’s own, Mollie Estes. After recently joining Team Alpha Male, Rothenhausler is eager to earn another Knockout of the Night award while showing she will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come in the featherweight division.

Corey Smith: Growing up, you were involved in a wide variety of sports. What attracted you to mixed martial arts?

Veronica Rothenhausler: MMA was my first opportunity to experience an individual sport.  I had no idea how empowering it could be to compete on my own.  While team sports taught me more than I could ever write down, there was something much different about walking into the cage by myself. Just me and you.  There’s nobody else.  I like that.

CS: After only three months of formal training, you took your first amateur bout. What were your thoughts leading up fight night?

VR: I was excited.  I went into that fight with the same mindset I have now, there is no way in hell I’m going to let this girl beat me up.  I went in there with nothing to lose.  I try and carry that with me in all of my fights.

CS: Your career began attracting attention after a pair of five second knockouts as an amateur. How did each of those knockouts come about?

VR:  The first one (knockout), was my second ammy fight.  It was in my hometown so it was cool to have my friends and family there.  It was the first time my dad had ever seen me fight so that was a good one to have him at.  I came out, threw two jabs and a straight right, and that was it.

VR: The next fight was for the TUFF N UFF 145 ammy belt.  I felt great coming off that 5 second win and my confidence was through the roof.  That is another thing that I decided to carry with me throughout my career.  There was a bunch of controversy following that fight after my opponent didn’t want to touch gloves with me, but it didn’t bug me at all.

VR: Some fighters feel the need to mad dog ya before and even after the fight.  No skin off my nose.  Nonetheless, I dropped her with my right and followed up with a few more while she was on the ground.

CS: Your first professional bout, at Invicta FC 4 this past January, also ended in a knockout. It also earned you Knockout of the Night honors. Do you ever attempt to win in any other fashion?

VR: Whatever gets me that bonus! Just playin’. I’m a powerful striker.  Knockouts are bound to happen, but I just go in there to get the job done.  How it happens is all dependent upon the individual fight.

CS: You train now out of Team Alpha Male. What has the training there done to elevate your career?

VR: I am a frillion times the fighter I was going in there.  My team is the best thing that ever happened to my career.  They are so talented, helpful, and totally good looking.

VR: Why wouldn’t I want to be in the gym 24/7! Urijah (Faber) has really taken me under his wing, and I couldn’t be more grateful.  To train with champions of that caliber everyday is an honor.  These guys are the real deal.

CS: After earning Knockout of the Night honors at Invicta FC 4, you are competing for Invicta again on April 5th at Invicta FC 5. How has your experience been like with the company so far?

VR: Working with Invicta FC has been incredible.  They care about the athletes more than anything, and it shows.  They take care of everything so the only thing you have to worry about is your fight.  I love these guys.  No other organization compares, after all we’re a bunch of girls!

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 5, Mollie Estes, is a Kansas City native. Are you worried about any type of hometown advantage? Where do you see the fight going?

VR:  It doesn’t matter where we are.  Once we step in there, that’s my cage.  I’m going to make a statement with this fight.

CS: With Invicta FC recently signing Cris Cyborg to add to an already deep 145lb weight class, what are your thoughts overall on the division?

VR:  I love it.  That’s where I want the big names.

CS: How much of an advantage do you believe your height and body size are for you over most female fighters?

VR:  I was bred to be a warrior.  I’m strong, fast, and instinctive.  Not many girls are built like I am.

CS: What is your mood like on fight night? Do you have any superstitions or routines that you have to perform?

VR: My mood never really changes.  I get in the zone right before I walk out, but I like to stay calm and do my thing.  Apparently I’ve been called out on how much I frown which is hilarious to anyone who knows me.  Someone even called me “the blue collar knockout frowner”! Points for creativity for sure.

VR: I played ball for years so I am a little superstitious, but literally not one person on this earth besides myself knows what I do- but I will tell you it works!

CS: Post fight, what is the first thing you have to do?

VR: Relax and celebrate!

CS: What type of feedback do you like to receive from your coaches inside the cage?

VR:  It depends on who I’m fighting and who is in my corner.  I have Justin Buchholz with me this time, and he knows my fighting style pretty well and we’ve been drilling together a lot so I trust anything he has to say.

CS: When the lights have faded, and the roar of the crowd has dimmed, what do you want to look back on your career and say you accomplished?

VR:   I want to be the featherweight world champion.

CS: Lastly, MMA is as much a team sport as it is an individual one. Who would you like to thank?

VR: Urijah Faber, our newest addition Duane Bang, my cornerman Justin Buchholz, Chad Mendes, Danny Castillo, Lance Pamldale, Joe Benevidez, Dustin Akbari, and every person who’s in that gym working to be better.  Everybody at Torque for always looking out for me.  TEAM ALPHA MALE IS TAKING OVER THE WORLD!

Grappling and submission ace, Fiona Muxlow, looks to show the world of Women’s MMA that she has the all-around game to stake a claim as a top contender at 145lbs.

Taking on hard hitting striker, Julia Budd at Invicta FC 5 on April 5^th, Muxlow has spent most of her training camp in Phukett, Thailand sharpening her skills at the world renowned Tiger Muay Thai. The Australian veteran sports at 6-2 record, and most recently competed in December of 2012 against fellow Invicta Featherweight, Marloes Coenen.

Corey Smith: Before you competed full time in MMA, you primarily competed in BJJ tournaments. Was this the first discipline you trained or did you start with something else?

Fiona Muxlow: I actually started training in an Australian MMA system derived from kyokushin karate, aikidosabaki fighting, combined with BJJ, called Renshinkan – although it was before MMA was a common term. The system/school went thru a number of name changes from Renshinkan Combat Aikido, then Renshinkan Vale Tudo and finally Renshinkan MMA. It evolved as the sport did.

CS: What aspect of MMA is the most fun for you? Which aspect is the hardest for you to stay motivated while training it?

FM: I enjoy the ‘ground and pound’, ‘hugging’ and ‘hitting.’  The hardest part is early morning sessions, whatever they be! While I like being up early, my body doesn’t!

CS: Before your fight with Marloes Coenen at Dream’s New Year’s Eve show last year, you had never competed outside of your native Australia. What was fighting in another country like for the first time?

FM: Let’s dispel that little bit of Internet misinformation. I have fought outside Australia, although I have seen it written a few times. Actually, my first 4 MMA fights were held in New Zealand. Two against Australians, one Kiwi and an American . It wasn’t until my 5th fight, that I fought in Australia and I’ve only had two of my 8 MMA fights in Australia. With 5 in New Zealand, and 1 in Japan, it feels more natural for me to fight outside of Australia than in Australia!

CS:  You won a Princess of Pain one night tournament, securing three submission victories. What was it like fighting three times in one night? Is there any part of one night tournaments that you wish was implemented into general MMA?

FM: At the time it was kinda normal. I was coming off BJJ and Karate competitions where you would fight multiple opponents/fights over the course of the day, so it didn’t seem strange to me at all.

FM: I’m not sure if there is any thing that I would implement into general MMA. Other than the multiple fights, I didn’t see much difference compared to the shows I have been on. Over the course of the night, I fought 5 rounds, but only two of them went the distance.

CS:  You have also participated in the prestigious Abu Dhabi grappling tournaments. For those not familiar with ADCC, what were those experiences like?

FM: It was great and I’m very sad that I don’t get the chance to qualify this year. I am thrilled to have qualified twice for the ADCC World Championships. The qualifiers for my Asian region are three weeks away but only two weeks out from Invicta. If I had the money for flights and the permission, I’d be there in a heartbeat! But Invicta is my priority right now and I regrettably, have to give up the chance to qualify for the ADCC World Championships a third time. Who knows, but if I do we’ll enough against Julia maybe they will invite me to compete. ADCC is a biannual event and the only way you get in is to qualify or be invited so it’s very prestigious.

Hanging out with, and competing against, the top BJJ/ MMA fighters in the world in submission wrestling is something that cannot be matched. Going back the second time, it was like meeting old friends and I knew I had the opportunity to learn from, and talk with, some of the best grapplers in the world. I’ve been to the BJJ worlds but I think ADCC for me was more special.

CS:  On April 5th, you will be competing in the United States for the first time at Invicta FC 5. What are you most looking forward to?

FM: I want to redeem my loss to Marloes, it was not my best work. I want to show what I can actually do. I was under prepared and overwhelmed with my Japan fight. This time I will have more notice and training ‘under my belt.’

CS:  Fellow Aussie and Invicta athlete, Bec Hyatt, congratulated you on Twitter for signing with Invicta. What has she told you about the organization?

FM: Bec has been talking me up for a while and I thank her for that. She is great with promoting herself and WMMA. We haven’t talked much, and not at all in person as we actually live really far away from each other. Pretty much what you have seen on Facebook and Twitter have been our interactions. We are both busy ladies but I’m sure she will ‘word me up’ on the plane fight over to the States.

CS:  Your opponent on April 5th, Julia Budd, looks like a classic striker versus grappler matchup. What are you expecting in your bout with her?

FM: A tough fight, from what I have seen, even though she is a “classic striker” she can wrestle as well, but that’s okay because I’m a “grappler” who can strike. I think whoever of us can get on top will have the real advantage.

CS: What do you think a win at Invicta FC 5 would do for you and your career?

FM: It would definitely cement my Unified Women’s Professional MMA Top 10 Featherweight Ranking. America seems to be the place to be at the moment for MMA, and winning there will help my profile for sure. Thank you to Invicta FC for the wonderful opportunity. As I said a good performance would help in being considered for an invite to ADCC 2013 and build my support base and maybe get me some sponsorship, and of course more fights.

CS:  You’ve mentioned that you use CrossFit training as a main component in your physical fitness training. What is it about CrossFit that makes you feel it contributes overall to your fitness?

FM: Strength, endurance, flexibility, cardio. I get bored quite easily with exercise and the constant variety that CrossFit offers keeps me entertained. My workouts are tailored around what part of my fight prep I’m at, and if no fights are ‘in the works’ it helps keep my GPP up.

CS:  Outside of the gym and cage, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun?

FM: I like to sleep, I’m actually really boring. I’m fairly introverted – so after a big week of training with lots of people time alone is great. A long walk, or swimming, or ‘just chilling’ with a good book or podcast is fun. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology, so anything about the natural world interests me.

CS: When you look back on your career many years from now, when the lights have dimmed, and the roar of the crowd faded, what do you hope you have accomplished?

FM: I do what I do because I do it, not for the lights or the crowd, although I always want to put on a good show. If I can inspire someone to follow their dreams I suppose that’s a good thing!

CS:  Lastly, MMA is as much a team sport as it is an individual one. Who would you like to thank?

FM: I’d like to thank Chris Shen and Team Takedown, all the guys and girls at Tiger Muay Thai and MMA, my wonderful clients and coaches at CrossFit North Queensland, Rocktape Australia and Fightergirls. I also want to thank anyone who has ever coached me in the past. And of course, Shannon and Janet and everyone involved in Invicta for putting on such a great platform for female MMA fighters, and to the wonderful fans who love to watch WMMA.