A rising prospect out of Brazil, Jennifer Maia will make her Invicta and US debut on April 5th against Zoila Gurgel at Invicta FC 5.
Maia is a member of the legendary Team Chute Boxe, who have produced such notable athletes as Wanderlei Silva, Shogun Rua, and Invicta’s own, Cris “Cyborg” Santos. A submission ace looking to make a name in the US, Maia should provide a stiff matchup for Zoila Gurgel on April 5th.
Corey Smith: How did you first get into MMA, and what was the discipline you started training first? What keeps you competing in the sport?
Jennifer Maia: I started to compete in Muay Thai initially. When I found MMA getting more exposure I migrated to MMA, and won my first fight by knock out. I want to be recognized for always giving good shows in my fights.
CS: This will be your first bout in the United States, what are you looking forward to the most?
JM: I preparing myself very well to fight a good fight and keep going with Invicta FC.
CS: What types of challenges do female fighters face in Brazil? Are you able to maintain a regular fighting schedule?
JM: People are still a little biased towards females fighting, but now it is slowly starting to change. A lack of sponsorships for female fighters can also be a problem. And yes, I have been able to maintain a regular fighting schedule here in Brazil.
CS: When you aren’t training, what type of things do you enjoy doing?
JM: I like to run, and hang out with friends.
CS: What helps you unwind after a long day of training camp?
JM: A long hot shower and watching a good movie.
CS: Many considered it a controversial move, but in your last fight Sheila Gaff went on the offensive immediately following the traditional touching of the gloves. Do you feel like it was an unfair advantage on her part, and would you like a rematch?
JM: I would not like a rematch. It was unfair from her, we never touched hand. Sheila give a fake touch with one hand and then punched with the other.
CS: Many fighters say they learn more from their losses than they do from their victories. What have you learned from yours?
JM: I learned to be a better athlete, and a better professional.
CS: This will be your first fight for Invicta FC, how has your experience with them so far been? Have you heard from other fighters in regards to fighting for Invicta?
JM: I have seen a very organized event, along with a high level staff. Yes, the event has a good visibility and reputation with the fighters.
CS: You are set to face off against Zoila Gurgel at Invicta FC 5, who brings great standup and a wealth of experience to the cage. What are you expecting out of this fight?
JM: A very hard fight, but a great show for the public for sure.
CS: How familiar are you with Gurgel?
JM: I watched her fights, and we come from the same style of fighting
CS: When you are in the cage, what type of coaching and feedback do you look for from your corner? Does anyone’s voice standout over the others?
JM: I just listen to my coach voice, he knows my game. He knows how to make me attack or defend better.
CS: Many consider you a submission specialist. Do you prefer a submission or a knockout?
JM: I am looking for the win, so I always go where the fight is easiest for me.
CS: Most fighters list the weight cut as the hardest part of MMA. Aside from that, what do you consider the hardest part?
JM: The worst part it is the day to day grind. Working and training everyday, but luckily I love my job. Some days get me very tired.
CS: Lastly, MMA is equally a team sports as it is an individual sport. Who would you like to thank?
JM: I would like to thank my coach, who’s believed in me and is always on my side. My training partners at Chute Boxe, and my sponsors Tanoshi equipment and Suplemais supplements, both believed in me since I started fight.