Fighting Words: Jinh Yu Frey

by Interviews

When your knockout win is viewed over 2 million times, finding an opponent can become a difficult thing, but Jinh Yu Frey believes those struggles are behind her with her debut at Invicta FC 8  September 6th against Jodie Esquibel.

 
Corey Smith: Like many others, you initially entered into the world of martial arts for the fitness aspect. What caught your attention and kept it in regards to martial arts?
Jinh Yu Frey: I’m a very competitive person and martial arts are the epitome of competition.

 

CS: Most of your immediate family has a history with martial arts. How do they feel about your fighting career?
JYF: Everyone has been really supportive. My older brother has actually started fighting as well, and my nephew competes in Jiu Jitsu. My niece just turned 5, and I believe she wants to start Jiu Jitsu too.

 

CS: Speaking of careers, you manage to fight professionally, maintain a career, and pursue an MBA. How do you balance all three aspects of your life?
JYF: I don’t know myself sometimes. Some days are pretty crazy. I just have to be a diligent steward of my time because I don’t get a lot of free time. Luckily, I have a very supportive husband who understands what the demands on my time are. He does most of our house work and prepares most of my meals for me. He also helps set my training schedule for the week.
JYF: Recently, he purchased wrestling mats for our guest bedroom so that we can do extra drilling at home. My work is usually pretty easy going about my fighting and gives me time off when I need it.
JYF: In the MBA program I attend, most of it is group work and my classmates have been generous in doing a little extra when I can’t and vice versa. To sum it up, I think I am just blessed to be surrounded by such supportive people.

 

CS: Fighting was also responsible for your marriage to your husband. How did that come about?
JYF: I was helping a team mate with her weight cut and was there to support her for her pro debut which also just happened to be on a card that my future husband was fighting on as well. After the fights everyone was out celebrating and we hit it off pretty well, even though he had been hitting on my little sister at the weigh ins. (He swears he thought I was with someone, so he hit on her)

 

CS: In just your second professional bout, you scored what many considered the best knockout in all of MMA for 2013 against Darla Harris. The KO went on to become a viral sensation. What was that experience like for you?
JYF: It was pretty surreal to see the extent at which it blew up. I wouldn’t by any means call myself famous, but I am still blown away by the attention my fighting has garnered. I’ve actually been on another continent and met someone who has seen it.

 

CS: The video also caused problems for you in regards to finding willing opponents. Do you believe that will still be a problem in Invicta FC? How has your experience been like thus far with the company?
JYF: Not at all. Invicta FC has been great. They are extremely professional and I think the long wait will be well worth it.

 

CS: Your opponent on September 6th, Jodie Esquibel, has had a slightly longer career, and brings a wealth of knowledge with her via Jackson’s MMA. What are you expectations of yourself and your opponent in the bout?
JYF: I think I’m taking a big leap in competition in accepting a bout with Jodie. She has quite a bit of experience and a lot of ring savvy. She comes from a very strategic camp and is a very good athlete. That being said, I also believe in my abilities and my camp. I have been working extremely hard and I’m anxious to see the fruits of my labors.
JYF:  Jodie will be a good test of where my skill is. I don’t believe there are any easy fights coming out of Jackson’s camp, but I know I possess the needed determination, ambition, and perseverance. There are very few things that I have failed at once I set my mind to it.

 

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
JYF: I just try to stay calm and mellow. I usually go over things in my head that I may have had trouble with over the course of my camp. I also go over in my head what to do if I get put in a bad position.
JYF: That way, if it should happen, it’s fresh in my mind and I can stay composed. I don’t have any routines and I’m not much for superstition. Little things like that do not change the work I’ve put in.

 

CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
JYF: I love watching MMA. I don’t watch any other sports besides combat sports. I like watching other people’s styles and flow.

 

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
JYF: I’m an avid world traveler. I love getting out of my comfort zone and off the beaten track with my husband and our backpacks. We’ve recently started trying to climb a mountain in every country we go to. We started off climbing Ben Nevis in the Scottish Highlands, then the Peruvian Andes on our trek to Machu Picchu, and this year we tried to summit Cotopaxi in Ecuador. We fell about 2,000 feet short of the summit, but 17,000 feet is still much higher than I have ever been. I’ve done missions work in Kenya, seen original Van Gogh’s in Amsterdam, surfed in Fiji, and I still haven’t even put a dent in my bucket list.
JYF: I’m also a bookworm. When I’m not in school or training for a fight, I can easily devour 5 books a week.

 

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
JYF:  My husband, my coaches, my manger Adolph, my team at Mohler MMA, the people at Team Takedown where I cross-train, and Invicta FC for believing in me enough to give me this opportunity.
JYF: Also, my amazing sponsors who help me on this crazy journey of mine: Gamma Labs, Apocalypse MMA, KV Cattle Co, #FritzFowler, and Damage Control Mouthguards.

 

Invicta FC 8 takes place September 6th live from the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. The full card will air live via UFC Fight Pass. Click below for tickets, or to subscribe to UFC FightPass.

 

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Fighting Words: JJ Aldrich

by Interviews

After an extensive amateur career, Colorado’s JJ Aldrich will make her professional debut September 6th at Invicta FC 8, when she quarrels with submission artist Delaney Owen.

 
Corey Smith: What was your first exposure to martial arts? What prompted you to continue training in martial arts?
JJ Aldrich: I started in martial arts when I was nine. My mom sent my sister and me to Tae Kwon Do, at a local rec center. It just clicked right away. I loved every second of it. Before I was into martial arts I grew up watching Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris movies, stuff like that. I was always into it as a kid.

 

CS: You had quite an extensive career as an amateur, what led you to the decision to turn pro?
JJA:I just finally feel like I have enough fights under me, and I finally got to the weight class that I needed to be at. One of my first fights was at 135 pounds, and now I am down to 115. I wasn’t in a rush; I wanted to make sure I learned everything that I needed to learn before I turned pro.

 

CS: You train out of the 303 Training Center in Colorado. What makes 303 your home? What advantages does training at altitude offer an athlete?
JJA: I train at 303 because they have the best coaches. Tony Basile, a great Jiu Jitsu black belt, turned his Jiu Jitsu into MMA really well. Also my training partners. I get to cross train with a lot of great people. The atmosphere there is great, everyone is so good. They really push you. It’s more like a family than a team.
JJA:The altitude, well today I went up to 1700 feet for running. So it’s a big advantage I feel. It’s a huge difference.

 

CS: You also cross train with Grudge Training Center members. Among them you have Invicta alum Rose Namajunas, and current Invicta athlete Cassie Robb. What is the team atmosphere like at Grudge?
JJA: 303 helps them out with their Jiu Jitsu, and Grudge helps us out with their striking. We get to cross train with whoever we want. I get to spar with all of their guys, which helps a lot. Cassie Robb, Rose, Stephanie Skinner, I get to spar with some of the best training partners around. I’ve trained with Raquel Pennington before. I have a lot of good training partners here in Colorado.

 

CS: Most fighters list the weight cut as the hardest aspect of being a fighter. Setting that aside, what do you consider the hardest aspect of being a fighter?
JJA: Honestly I would say the mental part. Going to class, going to the gym every single day and trying to give it your all. Pushing through injuries, and trying to stay mentally tough and mentally good. If you’re not mentally strong you go to the gym and do it half way all the time, and it doesn’t get you anywhere.

 

CS: What was the process that led to signing your Invicta FC contract? How has your experience been thus far with Invicta FC?
JJA: My last fight was against Ashley Greenway, who is also an Invicta athlete. After I fought that one and won, it was time to go pro so we made a movement toward Shannon Knapp. Hit her up on Twitter, sent her emails, and really just tried to get my name out to her. She started emailing me back and retweeting me, and before you know it I was signed.
JJA:Invicta has been awesome to me. I can’t believe that I got signed, and the same exact day I was signed I already had a fight. So they have been really good to me. They matched me up with a pretty fair fight. I don’t feel like anyone is really overmatched on either side of the fight card.

 

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 8, Delaney Owen, brings a strong submission game into the cage with her. What are you expecting out of the fight?
JJA: I’m sure she is going to take me down and try to submit me. She is a purple belt in Jiu Jitsu, and so am I. I don’t think that it is that big of a difference on the ground. I have a lot of submission victories too, so it will be a good fight.

 

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
JJA:I don’t have any superstitions or anything; I just make sure I’m warmed up. I’m pretty relaxed when it comes to being in the back. I just try to relax, put my headsets on, talk or joke around a bit. I don’t like to take it too serious until it’s time to fight. Otherwise you get tense, which is not good.  Everybody has their way of preparing themselves to get ready.

 

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
JJA:Mike Gonzales, my head coach, normally goes with me everywhere. I like them to be calm, I don’t like it when they yell. If they do then I get frustrated, I just like them to tell me what I’m doing wrong or what I need to do better. If they can calm me down in-between rounds, then the minute or so you do get will go slower.

 

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
JJA:As far as for fun, I just like to go for hikes, or do stuff like that. When I am just trying to relax I like to watch movies, or just hang out. I like action movies the best.

 

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
JJA: First of all I want to thank all my teammates at 303 Training Center. Brittany Elkin, Stephanie Skinner, Cassie Robb, Rose Namajunas, and anyone else that I am not thinking of there.  They push me everyday.
JJA:I want to thank Rosa from White Buffalo Management, Mike Gonzalez, my corner.
JJA: Brawlin Combat Gear, Outlaw Fight Gear, Clinch Mouthguards, FYU Lifestyles, and Sic Chic Fight Gear.

 


Invicta FC 8 takes place September 6th live from the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. The full card will air live via UFC Fight Pass.

 

Tickets for Invicta FC 8 may be purchased here.

 

Start your free 7 Day UFC FightPass Subscription here.

 

 

Fighting Words: Delaney Owen

by Interviews

A natural athlete from her youth, Florida’s Delaney Owen looks to remain undefeated when she joins fellow Invicta newcomer J.J. Aldrich in the cage September 6th at Invicta FC 8.


Corey Smith: Before picking up martial arts, you were interested in becoming a professional triathlete, before your body essentially shut down. What was that situation like for you?

Delaney Owen:That was a scary time; no one really knew what was wrong with me. I was tired all the time and after I was diagnosed they told me I shouldn’t compete in sports anymore. I was devastated.


CS: What led you to become interested in martial arts?

DO: I went with a friend to try out Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I wanted to learn self defense. I really had little idea what it was about just that it was good for small people.


CS: What keeps you involved in it today?

DO: The power to walk through life without fear.


CS: Highlander MMA in Tampa is the gym you call home. What is the atmosphere like there?

DO: Well it’s been my only school, and my only instructor. I’ve trained with other people and schools the phrase “old school” comes to mind.

DO: Professor Yanez was fortunate enough to train under Professor Jorge Popovitch father of ADCC champion Pablo Popovitch, who at the time was just a purple belt when Yanez came to their academy. Yanez took from him that same attitude; he treats his students like family.


CS: What made you want to call it home?

DO: Professor Yanez is a very intense person; he’s brash at times and outspoken. He’s very misunderstood. As they say the best masters are the ones that sacrifice everything for the art they love.

DO: He has believed in me from the start, and he has been a mentor and my best friend. I barley recognize the girl I was that walked into the class the first day, I watch martial arts movies now and realize “wow I’m a martial artist.”


CS: You spoke several years ago about how your goal was to fight for Invicta FC. What do you think it means for female athletes to have a promotion that features only women?
DO: I remember watching Invicta and thinking how cool it must be to be one of these girls, for women how empowering to have an organization like this in a once male dominated sport.


CS: After achieving your goal and signing with Invicta, how has your experience been like thus far with the company?

DO: I watched Julie Kedzie in Hook n Shoot DVDs I thought she was really sweet. I liked her and the way she changed in the ring, now she sends me emails lol. I admit I will be a little star struck it’s just awesome to think I’m part of this group of amazing athletes.


CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 8, JJ Aldrich, is making her professional debut against you. Do you believe that gives you any kind of advantage?

DO: Everyone has an advantage over me. 3 1/2 years ago I didn’t even know what UFC, Jiu Jitsu , or cage fighting existed. Most of these girls have been in martial arts for over 10 years. I just train hard and let my coaches worry bout those things.


CS: What are you expecting out of the bout?

DO: I have never been the first fight of the night before, I’m sure it will be exciting and loud from anticipation.


CS: You have stated that you have to find something to dislike in your opponent in order to fight them effectively. Why do you believe that is?

DO: Ha ha! That was a specific opponent. If a girl wants to make things personal so be it let’s dance! I’ve always been the nice girl the loyal friend until you do me wrong, then watch out!


CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage?

DO: My Coach and fiancé Mike Yanez and his brown belt Trent Lally, who has been to a lot of my most important fights.


CS: What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?

DO: We need a chapter for that lol! I know that silence is good!


CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?

DO: Every fight from the fights on AXSTv to UFC. I support local MMA in the state of Florida and I even judge sometimes. Even old fights are better then some basketball or baseball finals live on TV. I watched live fights on New Year’s Eve, and I’ve watched them on the internet live from Japan at 5am.


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

DO: Watching fights at the bars with my teammates. I go to the beach sometimes but really I love to train.

CS: What helps you to relax?

DO: Patron Margaritas! Sometimes really just 11 hours of sleep at a time is perfect.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?

DO: My fiancé Mike Yanez , all my Highlander Fight Team, my family, my sponsors, NALADOG, Brawl & Maul, Titan Medical, Covenant Business Solutions, The Press Box sports bar, Byrd & Gonzalez Attorney at Law, and South Tampa Smiles.

DO: My boxing instructor Chevelle Hallback.

DO: Fight fans can follow me on Twitter at @scrappydl, on Instagram at lilscrappydl and at my Facebook fan page, Delaney “lil Scrappy” Owen.


Invicta FC 8 takes place September 6th live from the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri. The full card will air live via UFC Fight Pass.

 

Tickets for Invicta FC 8 may be purchased here.

 

Start your free 7 Day UFC FightPass Subscription here.

 

 

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR INVICTA FC 8

by News

(PRESS RELEASE) — KANSAS CITY, Mo. (August 1st, 2014) – Tickets for Invicta Fighting Championships’ return to action September 6th, will be available for sale beginning August 1st at 10am via TicketMaster, all local Kansas City TicketMaster locations, and the box office at the Municipal Auditorium in downtown Kansas City.

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“We could not be more excited to be back! Invicta FC is ready to continue our tradition of providing a platform for female mixed martial artists to showcase their skills,” said Invicta FC President, Shannon Knapp. “Top to bottom, this is one of our most exciting cards to date. Every athlete on this card is ready to show the world that Invicta FC will continue to put on cards full of world class talent and thrilling action.”

Tickets for the world championship doubleheader on Saturday September 6th at the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City range from $35 to $100. Ten total bouts mark Invicta FC’s eighth event since it began promoting world class women’s mixed martial arts in 2012.

The main event of the evening will see Invicta FC Atomweight World Champion Michelle Waterson (11-3) of Albuquerque, New Mexico, make her first title defense against Japanese veteran Yasuko Tamada (15-8-3) of Tokyo, Japan.

The bout will mark the first title defense for Waterson after a stunning submission of champion Jessica Penne in April 2013. The Jackson’s MMA trained Waterson owns 7 of her career 11 victories via submission.

Trained by the legendary Megumi Fuji, Tamada currently owns a three fight win streak in Japan, where she regularly competes for DEEP and JEWELS.

The co-main event will bring a second world championship bout to Kansas City, when Finland’s Katja Kankaanpää, (9-1-1), and South Dakota’s Sephanie Eggink, (4-1), will compete for the vacant Invicta FC Strawweight World Championship.

Invicta veteran Kankaanpää will bring a strong and varied attack across the Atlantic with her. She is coming off a second round armbar win over Alyona Rassohyna in May, and fights for the title in her third appearance in Invicta.

With a strong background in amateur boxing Eggink will look to add a second championship belt to her resume when she returns to the cage exactly one year since her last bout.

Other bouts on the card include Brazil’s Ediane Gomes, (10-2), making her 135lb debut against the ever aggressive Tonya Evinger, (13-5), of Missouri. The bout will mark the third and second appearance for Invicta FC for each athlete.

In the rubber match of one of Women’s MMA’s oldest, albeit friendliest rivalries, UFC veteran Roxanne Modafferi, (15-11), of Nevada will take on well respected veteran Tara Larosa, (21-4), of New Mexico. Larosa won the first bout via decision in March of 2006, before Modafferi evened the score via split decision in May of 2010.

In a 125lbs (Flyweight) bout Michelle Ould, (7-3), of California is set to oppose the undefeated DeAnna Bennett, (4-0), of Utah. Both women will be making their Invicta FC debuts.

UFC veteran Peggy Morgan, (2-1), of New Hampshire will step into the cage with hard hitting Irene Aldana, (3-1), who hails from Mexico. All three of Aldana’s wins have come via knockout.

Set to square off in the first bout of the newly minted Invicta FC 155lb division, Charmaine Tweet, (5-4), of Canada will compete against California’s Veronica Rothenhausler, (1-0). The bout will mark the debut of both athletes at 155lbs.

Missouri’s own Ashley Cummins, (3-2), will challenge Mexico’s Alexa Grasso, (4-0), in a 115lb bout. Grasso owns three of her four victories via knockout or technical knockout.

Jackson’s MMA trained Jodie Esquibel, (3-1), of New Mexico will make her third appearance for Invicta FC across from Texas knockout sensation Jinh Yu Frey, (2-0), in a 105lb bout. Frey’s knockout of Darla Harris in July of 2013 received over 2.3 million views on YouTube.

Kicking off the eighth Invicta FC card will be JJ Aldrich (0-0) of Colorado versus Florida’s Delaney Owen, (2-0). Aldrich will be making her professional debut after winning a four woman amateur tournament for an Invicta FC roster spot.

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About Invicta Fighting Championships: Invicta Fighting Championships (www.invictafc.com) is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport. Currently Invicta FC has promoted eight all female fight cards.

About Municipal Auditorium, Kansas City, Missouri: Located at 301 West 13th Street, in Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, Municipal Auditorium was built in 1934, and opened in 1935. Fully renovated in 2007, the Municipal as it is commonly known, has hosted all manner of events, including concerts, NBA basketball, and college athletics. The Municipal has a maximum seating capacity of nearly 11,000 seats.

UFC FIGHT PASS SIGNS HISTORIC CONTENT DEAL WITH INVICTA FC

by News

This is a historic multi-year, multi-event deal. When we launched UFC FIGHT PASS last Christmas, we said that we would never rest in bringing the best value to our subscribers. The addition of live and archived Invicta programming is going to be of enormous interest to our existing subscribers and bring in new subscribers, too.” – UFC Fight Pass chief content officer Marshall Zelaznik

UFC FIGHT PASS

The Ultimate Fighting Championship and Invicta Fighting Championships are excited to announce that UFCFIGHTPASS.com, the UFC’s digital streaming service, is now the exclusive digital broadcaster of the world’s leading all-female MMA organization.

UFC FIGHT PASS chief content officer Marshall Zelaznik said: “This is a historic multi-year, multi-event deal. When we launched UFC FIGHT PASS last Christmas, we said that we would never rest in bringing the best value to our subscribers. The addition of live and archived Invicta programming is going to be of enormous interest to our existing subscribers and bring in new subscribers, too.”

He added: “UFC FIGHT PASS already has subscribers in over 155 countries, which is a huge platform the Invicta athletes. Invicta fighters are now sharing the same stage as elite UFC fighters like Alexander Gustafson, Conor McGregor, Cung Le and Michael Bisping. For any UFC fans that haven’t seen these women compete before – I guarantee they will be blown away when they see what Invicta is all about.”

Invicta FC president Shannon Knapp said: “This is a great day for my company. Since the start of Invicta, I’ve been committed to providing the biggest and best possible platform for women athletes and, with this distribution deal with UFC FIGHT PASS, Invicta will reach the most passionate MMA fans, wherever they are in the world.”

In addition to every upcoming Invicta event screening live, the entire Invicta archive will be made available anytime, anywhere, on UFC FIGHT PASS.

That means subscribers will be able to check out fights featuring talents like atomweight world champion Michelle Waterson and flyweight title-holder Barb Honchak, as well as Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos, former Strikeforce champ Marloes Coenen and early-career fights of UFC stars like Alexis Davis, Cat Zingano and Liz Carmouche.

The Invicta FC library joins the libraries of PRIDE FC, Strikeforce, WEC, WFA, EliteXC, Affliction Entertainment and the UFC on UFCFIGHTPASS.com.

Invicta will be announcing the first event to be screened on UFCFIGHTPASS.com shortly.

Knapp said: “We are targeting a late-summer event, headlined by a world title fight. This is an historic event for myself, the company and my athletes, and every one of them is going to want to be on this first card.”

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FROM UFC.COM

FIGHTING WORDS: ESTHER LIN

by Interviews

Though Esther Lin remains conspicuous ringside at the largest bouts in combat sports, her iconic shots are anything but. Covering Invicta FC since its inception, Lin is widely recognized as the pinnacle of her profession in mixed martial arts.

Corey Smith: How did your passion for photography first come about? When was the first time realized you had a talent for it?

Esther Lin: I started in painting and film and my father is an artist so I have always been around the arts. I went to college for documentary production and cinematography and worked various jobs all over Hollywood until I landed a post-production job at a small production company that asked me to shoot production stills for their low-budget films.

EL: I spent weekends shooting production stills for a schoolmate who directed music videos and honestly, I was pretty terrible. But I kept doing it even after I left the job for yet another random production job.

CS: At what stage in your career did you first begin to photograph mixed martial arts shows? How did that opportunity come about?

EL: In late 2006, my fiancée Casey started working for ProElite and brought me in to work their in graphics and some productions. Then in early 2007 I went to my first MMA smoker in a local gym while doing production work for ProElite.  I brought along my camera and shot the fights and had a lot of good shots for my first fight ever.  I spent the next two years going to local events for the ProElite website.

EL: I wasn’t really a photographer before I shot MMA.  I did shoot and I did try to get jobs as a photographer, shot a few weddings and events, but I wouldn’t have introduced myself as a photographer.  From 2007, I have pretty much exclusively shot MMA and boxing.  In late 2008, EliteXC and ProElite laid me off and I spent the next six months living off my unemployment checks, honing my craft and trying to pick up freelance jobs as a photographer.

EL: Fighters Only Magazine then gave me my first cover, a photo I took of Kimbo Slice.  In April 2009, Strikeforce went on Showtime and I covered all the press events and the fight.  When I got to the fight, they didn’t have a cageside spot for me, shooting for Fighters Only Magazine, so I had to sit in press row.

EL: Instead of wasting the trip, I photographed all over the event, the walkouts, wide sprawling arena shots, different POVs of each fight from the audience and Ken Hershman, who was at Showtime but now at HBO, saw my gallery and asked me to come work for Strikeforce.

CS: What do you think Invicta FC does for the sport of Women’s MMA? How has your experience been with the company thus far?

EL: I think Invicta FC is a fantastic platform for WMMA. Actually, it’s a great platform for MMA.  MMA grows faster when the women’s divisions flourish as well.  I love working for Invicta FC.  It is my favorite promotion to shoot because the athletes are full of heart and love and just dears to photograph. The action is unparalleled and Invicta president Shannon Knapp allowed me and Casey creative freedom in our photography and video work.

CS: Other than MMA, what other sports do you shoot? What types of unique challenges are there while photographing a mixed martial arts event?

EL: I only shoot combat sports, mainly MMA and boxing.  MMA has the cage, which is a challenge, and ground fighting is difficult to photograph at certain angles while boxing is pretty easy, it’s just timing and a little luck.

CS: How much are you able to enjoy a bout while you are shooting it?

EL: I always enjoy shooting a fight. Maybe I’d be a better shooter if I wasn’t so into the fight.

CS: Are there any major differences in working a small show compared to a larger one?

EL: Big shows have more breaks, different timing, and brighter lights.  The athletes are mostly the same but there’s less access and intimacy at large shows.

CS: Have you faced any barriers as a female photographer in a largely male populated profession?

EL: There’s been a few times when people have suggested that I only have gotten work because I’m female, which is pretty ridiculous because I can tell you that it is not an advantage.  I don’t want to call anyone out but there have been a handful of times I’ve been passed up for less experienced male competition.  Their loss, though.

CS: Regardless of the sport, what do you believe is the key to an iconic shot?

EL: Story is key.

CS: You have a genuine love for the sport beyond a means of income. What do you love most about MMA?

EL: I just love all the stories.  Everyone involved from fighters to coaches to the people that build the cage.

CS: With the type of access you have to mixed martial arts athletes, what moments stand out in your mind?

EL: I remember my first press tour was a day with Gina Carano hitting up various media outlets in New York City in 2009 and that was really big for me.  I loved every countdown shoot I’ve done for Invicta.  And being in the locker rooms at Strikeforce was important for me, you see the before and after in the most intimate space.  And this last year I went on a nine-city press tour with Floyd Mayweather and Canelo Alvarez — perhaps the biggest series of events I’ve ever been a part of.

EL: I’ve also been at every major women’s bout from the first on CBS, Carano vs Cyborg, Ronda Rousey’s UFC debut, etc. I welled up with emotion when Ronda Rousey and Liz Carmouche walked out at the Honda Center.

CS: Lastly, who would you like to thank?

EL: I’d like to thank Casey for being my cheerleader. Showtime for giving me really huge opportunities, mainly Chris DeBlasio for his continual support of my art.  And Shannon Knapp for trusting that I know what I’m doing — and letting me do it.

Tuff-N-Uff announces four-woman strawweight tournament

by News

Tuff-N-Uff announces four-woman strawweight tournament, winner to earn pro contract with Invicta FC

LAS VEGAS – The nation’s premier amateur mixed martial arts promotion is happy to announce an exciting new venture with the sport’s top all-female organization.

“Tuff-N-Uff: The Future Stars of Mixed Martial Arts” will host a four-woman strawweight tournament, and the winner will be rewarded with a professional fight contract with Invicta Fighting Championships.

“Tuff-N-Uff has long supported women’s martial arts, and we’ve been fortunate enough to have some of the best ladies in the game compete in our cage,” Tuff-N-Uff Vice President Jeff Meyer said. “The chance to partner with the best all-women’s MMA organization in the sport for this unique opportunity was a natural fit for us, and I’m looking forward to seeing this tournament play out.”

The four women involved in the tournament include Texas’ Jianna Denizard (5-2), Las Vegas’ own Jamie Moyle (3-2), Arkansas’ Laura Uyeda (5-0) and California’s Molly Wren-Holmes (4-0).

The opening round of the bracket takes place at Tuff-N-Uff’s April 11 fight card at The Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the event, which start at just $25, are available at Tuff-N-Uff’s official website, tuffnuff.com.

Denizard comes to the tournament on the strength of her quality striking. However, she also boasts two submission wins on her record, proving she’s a threat wherever the fight takes place. At 5-foot-7, Denizard will be the tallest of the four competitors; and she knows how to use every inch of her reach to her advantage, utilizing her range to force opponents to over-extend themselves and fall prey to counters.

Moyle has already faced the likes of undefeated four-time Invicta FC veteran Tecia Torres during her time in the amateur ranks, and she comes from one of the best camps in the world in Syndicate MMA. Moyle possesses some of the sharpest techniques in amateur MMA today, and her ability to put pressure on opponents is her strongest asset. Despite being the smallest competitor out of the four, no opponent will be able to take her lightly.

Uyeda is probably the best all-around athlete in the tournament. She earned a bronze medal in the No-Gi Worlds 2012, and in college earned a full athletic scholarship to New Orleans University at Monroe. Her ground game is clearly her strength. However, she also possesses a knockout win on her record and has taken two victories by decision.

Wren-Holmes is the craftiest MMA practitioner in the tournament, earning comparisons to a former Tuff-N-Uff competitor, Mike Pyle. No matter what position or situation Wren-Holmes is in, she’ll find a way to use it to inflict some pain on her opponent. The Californian is adept at landing the first and last punch of any exchange, as well. This helps her gain advantages over opponents not only physically, but mentally. She’s finished three of her four bouts by knockout.

The winners of the two April 11 semifinal bouts will meet in the tournament final on June 7 at Thomas and Mack Center.

About Tuff-N-Uff:

Tuff-N-Uff Productions, Inc. (www.tuffnuff.com) is the nation’s premier amateur mixed martial arts promotion. Founded in 1994, Tuff-N-Uff has helped many amateur fighters gain the experience needed to pursue professional fight careers. Tuff-N-Uff is proud to have helped groom the following professional fighters: Ronda Rousey, Ryan Couture, Marina Shafir, Chris Holdsworth and Jessamyn Duke.

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships (www.invictafc.com) is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.

Fighting Words: Natasha Wicks

by Interviews

Original Invicta FC Phoenix Girl Natasha Wicks has done it all; long distance running, modeling, and of course the aforementioned position with Invicta FC. Looking forward to continuing with Invicta FC, Natasha gives us her take on her wide ranging and unique career.

Corey Smith: Before any involvement in MMA, you are first and foremost a long distance runner. How did your love for that sport come about?

Natasha Wicks: It all starts with my parents. My father was a sprinter; a red haired, golden-eyed Irishman who could medal in the shorter distances. While my mother was a distance runner; she holds the first ever High school Cross-countryState championship medal for a woman in Las Vegas. Combine the two and you have me, the human Seabiscuit. I began running with my mom in the morning before home school in 8th grade and went to Public high school so that I could compete in XC (Cross Country) and T&F (Track And Field).

NW: I ended up at NorthernArizonaUniversity, a Division 1 school, on a full ride academic and athletic scholarship. My dad died when I was young and there is something in me that feels I keep him “alive” in me through my running. Running is in my blood, nothing excites me more then competing.

CS: You spoke in the past about training for the 2016 Summer Olympics. Are you still training towards that goal?

NW: That has been a goal of mine since high school. Competing in the Olympics. Because of some serious injuries after college, I stopped running altogether and went through a depression because of it. I was always “Natasha Wicks the Runner” and felt like nobody if I wasn’t racing/winning. Now that I am healthy and have the most amazing team around me, I feel like I can really show what I am capable of as an athlete. If I end up being ready and a true competitor by 2016, then I will try. But in all truth, I so much prefer trail racing since I am a long distance runner… 25 laps on a track can be hell at times. Haha.

CS: As part of your training regime, you adhere to a pretty strict juice diet. What are the benefits of such a diet? What are the challenges of a juice diet?

NW: I do Juice fasts, cleanses and intermittent fasting throughout the year. I juice everyday, but that is usually with a meal. The benefits are vast! Fasting, cleansing and detoxing are all great to give your body a reboot, to flush out inflammation and fungus and keep my body functioning at the highest level. It is impossible to compete at the highest level if you don’t keep your machine fine tuned on the inside as well as the outside. The challenges of doing cleanses and fasts is really only hard for the first 3-4 days then it’s easy. It’s only hard because I love food. ;)

CS: At what point did you begin to model full time? How did that portion of your career come about?

NW: I began modeling at the end of 2007 and was in full force model mode all through 2008 and on. The kick start happened in Hawaii were it was brought to my attention that models are not all tall and that I could have a real career in it. So I figured I’d try and give it a go.

CS: You were selected to be a UFC Octagon Girl via a national search. What was that experience like for you?

NW: Winning the UFC/Maxim Octagon Girl Search was definitely a life changing moment. It has brought me to where I am today and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I only submitted my Bio and photos because it was for a coveted position in a ever growing sports organization. And I love my sports!

NW: Upon arrival though, I quickly decided to just have fun because I did not see myself winning. Thousands of girls submitted themselves to be in the top 40 that would compete at the UFC expo for UFC 100. When they announced me the winner at the end of 3 rounds, I was beyond ecstatic and at the time didn’t really realize how big a deal it was. And working as an Octagon Girl was so much fun!

NW: Despite the random hatred I get from Arianny, I really loved working the fights with her, Logan and Leslie our Octagon mom. Always being goofy and talking about boys and the awkward weigh-in moments…. it was a laugh fest. I loved being there, watching the fights live, signing autographs and having my hair pulled to come back and sign someone’s shirt. ;)

CS: As the original Phoenix Girl for Invicta FC, what has your experience been like thus far with the company? What differences are there between Invicta FC and other promotions?

NW: Being personally selected by Invicta president Shannon Knapp to be her first official Phoenix Girl/Ring girl was such an honor. I love that she views me as a strong woman who represents other strong woman in the first ever all woman’s MMA organization. Shannon Knapp gave me the task of putting the Phoenix Girls/Ring girls together as well.

NW: Before any outfit decisions she asked my opinion and has always made me feel like a valuable asset to this ever growing organization. I’ve been at all 7 of the fight events and have seen so many big changes all ready. All good! The vision, Organization, and staff are all top notch and the athletes truly are some of the most amazing woman. Being surrounded by athletes, especially women, pushes me and inspires me in my own sport.

NW: The difference between Invicta and other promotions is that it is all about the athletes. Shannon Knapp created a stage for woman from all over the world to display their skills and she takes everyone into consideration and pulls out all the stops. And because the athletes and the employees see how much Shannon does for them, they have so much more respect for her. There is something comfortable about being at Invicta’s events. You feel like an important and valuable team player. I am sure all the athletes and staff feel the same way. I’ve never seen nor felt that way in any other organization.

CS: Between running, modeling, and your work within the MMA world, your professional plate seems to be rather full. Do you think it is important to have varied interests and professional opportunities?

NW: My plate is definitely full! But in all good ways. I am doing what I love and what makes me the happiest. Training full time with a part time job at a Specialty Running Store(Running Revolution) makes for a very relaxed and stress free life. To add all the companies I represent, gigs, shoots and Invicta events on top doesn’t really change much. Modeling can be time consuming, depending on the gig, but it is so easy. I love the variety of it all. Keeps me interested. Haha. I am a very active and adventurous person so getting to travel for work and getting paid to play dress up has been a dream the last 4 years.

CS: You have participated in two overseas tours for American Troops. What were those experiences like?

NW: The first Tour for the Troops that I did was in Iraq and Kuwait in 2011. I was invited by Amber Nichole Miller, the OG UFC octagon girl whom I had only met and worked with once at a gig in Vegas. Karaoke brings people together lol. The Tour was so rad! We visited the different bases, talking to the soldiers and hearing about all the different jobs and positions. We flew around on Black Hawks, shot Sniper 50 calibers, machine guns, made a bomb.

NW: My grandpa served in WWII and I have brothers in the army, so I loved that I was able to show my love and support to all the men and woman who have sacrificed so much for our country. The second Tour for the Troops was in 2013 in the Middle East as well; 6 countries on that Tour. Just like the first, I had such an amazing time and hope to do many more. I love our Troops!

CS: Outside of your professional interests, what types of activities do you enjoy?

NW: Outside of Running, Ring-girling and modeling I have quite the array of interests and hobbies. I love to sew, crochet, stitch;  in fact in college I started making my own handbags for fun and it very quickly turned into a little business for me. I probably made over 200 bags and even made some shoes and jeans. I’ll still make them from time to time as a gift.

NW:  I was an Art student in College, so I still enjoy drawing/painting. I love photography, skateboarding(since my road rash of 2011 I avoid hills), cooking, baking, gardening, watching movies, writing, scrapbooking, rock-climbing, surfing, hiking, shopping, traveling…. ;)

CS: Lastly, it takes a team behind you to succeed. Who would you like to thank?

NW: First and foremost I want to thank Invicta, Shannon Knapp, for bringing me into this amazing organization. I want to thank my running sponsors Oak Grove Technologies and Premiere Spine and sport.

NW:  My team of trainers at The Riekes Center, always taking my fitness to the next level. Thank you to the team at SNAC, monitoring me on the inside and supplying me with the best supplements.

NW: I want to thank Apocalypse MMA for working with me and creating the most beautiful website. Thank you to Randy Couture and all the guys at Kountermove for putting my face on all over their company.

NW:  And of course a big thank you to all my fans, they have continued to follow and support me in everything that I pursue. I wouldn’t be where I am without my fans!

FIGHTING WORDS: LAUREN MURPHY

by Interviews

Lauren Murphy recently defeated Miriam Nakamoto at Invicta FC 7 for the inaugural Invicta FC Bantamweight Championship, and shared with us her thoughts about her win, what has changed for her, and most importantly; where she keeps the Invicta FC title belt.

Corey Smith: The coverage of your remarkable life story has been fairly in depth. What do you think it is about your life that seems to draw so much attention?

Lauren Murphy: I don’t know! My life seems pretty normal to me, haha! I actually think that’s why people like it. I’m just a normal person. I wasn’t raised to be a champion, I haven’t been an athlete since I was a kid, I am not an Olympian, and I’m not a black belt in ANYTHING.

LM: I’m just a normal person who had some struggles, which I believe everyone has in some way or another. I’m just your average Lauren, who worked really hard, and achieved some cool things doing something I love. People look at me and they can relate to that. If I can do it, maybe anyone can do it. It’s hopeful.

CS: You recently defeated Miriam Nakamoto for the inaugural Invicta FC Bantamweight Championship. What was your game plan going into that bout? How much did the fight deviate from how you envisioned it?

LM: It didn’t really deviate until she didn’t stand up in the fourth round. Our game plan was solid, in my mind. We knew I would have some trouble with her on the feet, of course! I would hope so, she’s a Muay Thai stud, right?!

LM: But, I didn’t want to run out there and shoot on her right away. To me, in a way, that seemed cowardly, and the fans don’t want to see that. I’m here to fight! I wanted to show her, and everyone else, that I was willing to stand and trade with one of the best strikers in the world. So that’s what I did.

LM: I know she got the better of me on our feet, but I landed enough punches hard enough to bloody her nose and let her know she couldn’t knock me out. I’ve only trained for four years, so to stand with an 8-time world champ who has trained for 14, I’m proud of that.

LM: We also figured she would get tired in the third and later rounds, and wouldn’t be as likely to stop a takedown. But shooting on her, in the open, when she’s fresh, that’s just dumb. That’s a great way to eat one of her infamous knees. So we weren’t going to do that.

CS: Nakamoto suffered a knee injury in the bout, and was unable to continue. What are your thoughts on how the bout ended?

LM: There is no doubt Miriam was hurt, and I think that’s too bad. You never want to see an athlete get seriously hurt like that. Some people have said I don’t deserve that belt and that she should have won. I think that’s just silly, for a lot of reasons. Miriam asked for that fight to be stopped, not me. She fell and did not pull guard or try to fight off her back. She did not look for sweeps or armbars or anything.

LM: We were not even in striking distance when she fell, yet she rolled and turned her back. There were a lot of pics on social media of her later, training the day after surgery and such, doing Jiu Jitsu and whatever else. I saw that many people thought that was very amazing, and I just had to wonder, why wasn’t any Jiu Jitsu done during the fight, when it counted? When the world championship was on the line, where was the toughness and heart that would allow her to return to training one day after surgery?

LM: Many fighters have fought with torn up ACL’s, for instance, Conor McGregor went on to put on the fight of his life with one, so it is possible. “The mind rules the body”, as they say. I’m not saying she wasn’t hurt. I am saying, if she wanted to win, she should have kept fighting. It’s not my fault she didn’t continue. If the fans have an issue with it, I believe they should take it up with her.

LM: I was willing to fight Miriam on one leg. I would have crawled out to the 4th and 5th rounds if I had to, that’s how badly I wanted win. Some fighters would rather quit than take an ass beating. Me, I’d rather take an ass beating than ever quit. That’s why I am the champion.

CS: Can you tell us what you said to Miriam before the official decision was announced?

LM: Yeah, I just asked her what happened.

CS: What do you think will be the biggest difference between winning the belt and defending the belt?

LM: Nothing changes as far as my mindset goes. I have always worked really hard and improved by leaps and bounds between each fight. That won’t change. What has changed, maybe, is everyone else’s mindset. Now they have to come get me and try to take what’s mine. That means they’ll be hungry. But I’ll be hungrier. I always have been. I still am. I still have something to prove.

CS: As champion, what are your thoughts on the Invicta Bantamweight division?

LM: It’s great!! I have fought three really tough girls in there so far J, so I would say it’s full of talent. I think there are a lot of very good up and comers that are young, hungry and talented. It’s exciting. I can’t wait to see how the story of the bantamweight division unfolds.

CS: This January you provided commentary for your home state promotion, Alaska Fighting Championships. How did that come about? What was the experience like for you?

LM: It was really a lot of fun! The AFC has always been good to me. I am actually the title holder for the women’s division there, so the owner (Sarah Lorimer) found out I was coming to Alaska for a while and asked if I would like to commentate. I was nervous the first fight, but got the hang of it quickly. The guy I commentated with, Kevin Avellar, has been commentating a long time, so he knew how to fill the silences, what to talk about, how to introduce the fighters, etc.

LM: I have a lot of respect for good commentators; they can make or break a promotion trying to get home viewers! It was a very cool experience and I hope to be able to do it again sometime.

CS: Some champions sleep with the belt, others put it up on the mantle. Where do you keep the title belt?

LM: HA! Actually, it’s been toted around in my backpack through airports and across state lines in my car maybe more than anything since I won it. I have been travelling a lot, and it’s been coming with me. Everyone wants to take pictures with it, and I am more than happy to break it out anytime someone asks. I like showing it off.

CS: What was the reaction like your first time back at your home gym after you won the championship? Are there any perks of being champion? A closer parking spot perhaps?

LM: HA! I usually park on the sidewalk anyway ;) I got a lot of hugs from my team mates and a lot of kids wanted to hold it and wear it, but other than that, people treat me pretty much the same….I really only try to associate with good, positive people anyway, soooo……it’s hard to tell a difference!!  I can tell my coaches are proud are proud of me, and that means a lot. A big part of me fights hard to make them proud, because they take so much time with me.

LM: Other than that, I noticed I basically have a big target on my back now, because everyone wants to be able to say they beat up the champ, whether it’s kickboxing, BJJ, wrestling, whatever. So I basically have to work twice as hard and take much more punishment. It’s really a good thing I like that sort of stuff ;)

CS: Lastly, it takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?

LM: I want to thank Gracie Barra Katy. My coaches Pat Applegate, Alex Cisne, and Aaron Pena have brought me a long way in the last year. In one year they turned me into the fighter I am, and that’s pretty amazing. Pat especially has put in a TON of time with me. I am so grateful to him and to his family.

LM:  My husband has also been a huge support to me through all of this. He’s amazing, and I absolutely would not be here if it weren’t for him.

LM:  My team mates at GBK are awesome; the belt, as well as my last four victories, are theirs as much as mine. They are a phenomenal team and I love them like brothers.

INVICTA FC ANNOUNCES SIGNING OF FIFTEEN NEW ATHLETES

by News

INVICTA FC ANNOUNCES SIGNING OF FIFTEEN NEW ATHLETES IN VARIOUS WEIGHT CLASSES

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (February 14th, 2104) – Invicta Fighting Championships has announced the signing of fifteen women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes to the Kansas City based promotion. The fifteen new athletes are spread across all five of the current weight classes in the women’s world championship MMA promotion and represent the next chapter in the history of Women’s MMA.

Since the inaugural Invicta FC live event in April 2012, Invicta has maintained its goal of showcasing current stars of Women’s MMA, but also building the stars of the future. To date over a dozen athletes have made their professional debuts fighting for Invicta FC, a trend that continues with the signings announced today.

“Invicta has always endeavored to balance delivering the athletes fans know and love, with an eye towards building the next generation of female MMA stars,” said Invicta FC President Shannon Knapp. “It has always been important to give the fans new athletes to cheer for, and to give the athletes themselves a platform to showcase their talent for the entire world to see.”

Continuing another Invicta FC trend, recently signed athletes hail from all corners of the globe, including as far away as New Zealand. “Women’s MMA is truly a global sport, and at Invicta we have scoured the globe in order to bring the best talent to our fans,” said Knapp. “There is talent all around the globe, and our goal at Invicta has been to provide athletes with a worldwide platform to display their talent.”

Newly minted Invicta FC Matchmaker Julie Kedze is excited with the options the new signings represent for Invicta. “This new class provides me with added depth to put together match ups that we believe the fans want to see.” remarked Kedzie.

Invicta currently plans to hold six world class MMA events in 2014, with the first tentatively planned for early April.

The following is a complete list of the most recent signings by Invicta FC, led by Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) veterans Peggy Morgan and Roxanne Modafferi.

Atomweight (105lbs)

Amber Brown- 3-1, United States

Strawweight (115lbs)

Livia Renata Souza- 5-0, Brazil

Karolina Kowalkiewicz – 4-0, Poland

Mellony Geugjes -0-1 MMA, 18-5-2 Kickboxing, 10-0 PRO Boxing, Netherlands

Herica Tiburcio- 7-2, Brazil

Ashley Greenway- Pro Debut, United States

Flyweight (125lbs)

Rachel Ostovich- 0-1, United States

Joanna Jedrzejczyk –  4-0, Poland

Valerie Letourneau – 4-3, Canada

Delaney Owen – Pro Debut, United States

Bantamweight (135lbs)

Peggy Morgan- 2-1, United States

Roxanne Modafferi – 15-11, United States

Cindy Dandois- 5-1, Belgium

Irene Aldana-  3-1, Mexico

Featherweight (145lbs)

Faith Van Duin- 4-0, New Zealand

Invicta FC’s most recent event on December 7th saw Barb “Lil’ Warrior” Honchak (9-2) make the first defense of her Flyweight World Title (125 Pounds) against Leslie “The Peacemaker” Smith (6-4-1). Invicta FC also crowned it’s very first Bantamweight World Champion (135 pounds), when Lauren Murphy (8-0) defeated Miriam “The Queen of Mean” Nakamoto (2-1) by way of TKO (knee injury).

About Invicta Fighting Championships:

Invicta Fighting Championships (www.InvictaFC.com) is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis.  Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.