Interviews Archives - Page 5 of 13 - Invicta Fighting Championships

Fighting Words: Katja Kankannpaa

September 3, 2014

The “Killer Bunny” Katja Kankaanpaa returns to the Invicta FC cage in search of gold when she challenges Stephanie Eggink for the vacant World Strawweight Title September 6th at Invicta FC 8.

Corey Smith: Your last appearance in the Invicta FC cage, you suffered the first defeat of your career, a decision loss to Joanne Calderwood. Most athletes agree you learn more from your defeats than your wins. What did you learn?
KK: Most of all, I learned a lot on the mental side. The fight was tough and if I had been mentally stronger, the decision could have gone the other way. I thought that I was ready, but didn’t trust myself enough to take the win.

CS: You bounced back with a submission victory this past May. How important was it for you to stay active outside the Invicta cage?
KK: It was very important because otherwise the pause from fighting would have been too long. When fights are in steady intermissions you can keep a good touch to fighting. It also was very nice to have a fight at my home country, especially since it had been so long since my last fight here in Finland.

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?
KK: Lack of time. Sometimes it’s hard to schedule my day. I have a day job and when I add in training to my day schedule, I haven’t much free time left.

CS: Invicta FC recently signed a content distribution deal with the UFC, specifically all future Invicta bouts will be available via UFC Fight Pass. What were your thoughts when you first heard about the deal?
KK: Its huge thing and big step for Women’s MMA.

CS: Your bout on September 6th at Invicta FC 8, will be for the vacant Strawweight championship. How familiar are you with your opponent, Stephanie Eggink? What do you believe is the key to the matchup?
KK: I’m not so familiar. I just watched a couple of fight videos of hers, so that’s it. I just need to believe in myself and do my own things in the fight. I’m a well rounded fighter and I think if I just fight on my own level I can win the fight.

CS: The bout will see a new champion crowned in the Invicta FC Strawweight division. Does this carry any added pressure for you?
KK: I hope not =) I try to think that this fight is just one fight among others but I’m not sure if that works because I’m excited being in the title fight.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
KK: My manager and one of my coaches are with me in the cage. I just need simple instruction in a fight.

CS: For those that have not experienced it, how would you describe the walk out to the cage?
KK: I’m excited and focused on the fight. All the training is behind me and it is time to fight.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
KK: There are so many things that I would like to do, but sadly I haven´t much free time to do them. But just to mention a few: Climbing, swimming, cycling and running. I feel I’m always going somewhere but when I’m a home I just relax watching movies with my husband and playing with our dog.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
KK: My team, coaches, manager and all my training partners who have helped me with training. My family, my husband and my sponsors. I am very happy and pleased that I have people like you around me.

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.

Fighting Words: Stephanie Eggink

September 3, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Invicta FC newcomer Stephanie Eggink steps right into the fire when she faces off against Katja Kankaanpaa for the vacant Invicta FC World Strawweight title September 6th at Invicta FC 8.

Corey Smith: You have an extensive background in boxing, even fighting for the US National Team at one point. How did you first get started in Boxing? Was that your first entry in martial arts?
Stephanie Eggink: I started boxing when I was 16 and I fell in love. I had done Tae Kwondo when I was young but most of my life I played soccer. When I walked into the boxing gym for the first time I knew I had found my sport.

CS: You took a few bouts as professional boxer, but quickly transitioned in MMA. What prompted the switch?
SE: I got bored with boxing. Not discrediting the sport at all, but I was 21 and restless. I was sick of doing the same thing in the gym all the time. And, I realized how much more fun it is to sit on top of someone and punch them than do it standing.

CS: Other than obvious rule differences, what would you say is the biggest difference between MMA and Boxing?
SE: Wrestling and ground game are obviously not part of boxing, and a huge part of MMA. Luckily I took to BJJ very quickly so the transition to the ground was ok, but the in between stuff (wrestling) was more of a challenge to conform to, and I’m still working on it. But, both are combat sports, where someone is trying to hurt you and you them. There’s a lot of parallels there, ones you can’t find in any other sports.

CS: Your nickname “Snowflake” is rather unique to the world of MMA. How did that come about?
SE: Long story, one I can’t really share with you, but Sam Wilson started calling me that when I was still fighting ammy and it stuck. You can try to get the story out of her if you want to! What I tell people is that I’m unique, like a snowflake!

CS: Your upcoming bout at Invicta FC 8 will mark an exactly one year layoff for you. Do you have any concerns with ring rust? How does winning one title prepare you to win another?
SE: Ring rust is a real thing but that typically gets shaken off in the gym. I feel confident right now, the fact that I haven’t fought doesn’t mean I haven’t been training. School took precedence over fighting for this past year, and I don’t regret that at all. Having prepared for a title fight before helped me for this camp, I know what kind of shape I need to be in, but my last fight only lasted one round so I have never gone a full 5 before. Should be interesting!

CS: You will be facing Katja Kankaanpaa at Invicta FC 8 on September 6th for the vacant Invicta FC Strawweight championship. How familiar are you with Kankaanpaa and what should fans expect out of the bout?
SE: I think its going to be fight of the night. She is very aggressive, I am very elusive. Our opposite styles will make for a good fight. She is strong and good at what she does, but so am I.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
SE: I’m calm and collected right now, I feel very confident in my skill set. As far as superstitious stuff…this is kind of weird…but I always shave my entire body (other than my head) before I fight. Haha. I don’t know why but I have done it since I was just boxing and it makes me feel like I’m preparing my body for battle. Weird, I know.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
SE: My dad is always in my corner, he has been since my first pro boxing fight. He doesn’t coach me but he is always there, my biggest support. Other than him Shayna Baszler has been in my corner for my past 3 fights and will be this time as well, she is a book of knowledge and the best coach I have ever had. Also, my striking coach Luke will be in my corner, I just started working with him this camp. Shayna’s wrestling and MMA knowledge and his striking knowledge will compliment each other well.

CS: Lastly outside of the gym, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
SE: Between working as a medic and training, I don’t have a whole lot of time for extra activities! I am excited to be able to some time off and do things I enjoy, like hiking and rock climbing, after this camp is over. However, I do read a lot, every night before bed. Historical non fiction is my genre of choice (I’m a nerd).

Fighting Words: Tonya Evinger

September 2, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

A fighter’s fighter, veteran Tonya Evinger is always looking for a fight, and next up on the list is the ever tough Ediane Gomes at Invicta FC 8 September 6th.

Corey Smith: Before you began to focus more on mixed martial arts, you actually wrestled for the US Senior Freestyle team. How do you think that prepared you for success in MMA?
Tonya Evinger: When I started MMA, there were no wrestlers coming in. I was definitely ready to fight anyone. The hard part was finding someone that wanted to fight me. I got turned down by everyone. I remember so many girls turned me down. I looked online, and I searched and searched to find anyone. Back then you couldn’t search “MMA,” you had to search no holds barred fighting or something like that.
TE: It was a little tough. No one wanted to fight me because they said I needed more experience. Which was complete BS. I think no one wanted to fight because I was a wrestler. When all the wrestlers started coming over to MMA, wrestling was a big part of their winning. Still today I think wrestlers are in the best shape. MMA fighters look the best, but I think wrestling is just a really tough sport. You grind and grind and grind.
CS: As a well respected veteran of the sport, what advice would you give to an up and coming athlete in WMMA?
TE: I think that a lot of veterans that came in when I came in have similar advice. It’s changed a lot. Now there is amateur and pro and all that. When I came in it was nothing like that, no amateur or pro, you just fought. The athletic commissions came in and made all the pro and amateur deal. It’s a little different now, but I always tell my athletes now fight every fight you can fight. Fight anyone that you can fight, win or lose as an amateur you get to start over when you go pro.
TE: So get those hard fights, those ones that pull your heart out, the ones you learn a lot from. Learn to get your butt kicked, how to defend things, what the pace is going to be like, you learn so many lessons every single fight. I think that for anyone coming in don’t be scared, just jump in there and throw down. You have nothing to lose. I fought that way myself, I think my record shows that. I’ll take any fight.
CS: As someone who has seen the growth off MMA from the beginning, what types of changes have you noticed?
TE: I just feel like I’m a fighter. I wrestled for so long. When you go to a tournament, some of them come up with stupid excuses not to fight you. They take a bye against you, and then they wrestle someone else later. So they just didn’t want to lose. That’s just stupid. When you take a bye, you lose anyways. So why not just wrestle me and take the chance.
TE: I’m a fighter. I say I’m going to fight, and I fight. I run my mouth off, but I step in there do what I say I’m going to do. I’m not an internet fighter. I don’t want to post pictures and get sponsors, then never take any fights. That’s just unacceptable.
TE: I would never let my little brothers do that, I’ve made them fight when they were sick or injured. I’ve fought with a broken hand multiple times. I’ve fought with a fractured foot one time; I’ve fought with all kinds of injuries. I tell this to my fighters all the time. They want to make excuses and all this come fight time, but it’s too late. You’re not coming in my gym and training and then telling everyone you’re a fighter, and then do all this stuff to back out last minute.
TE: You’re either a fighter or you’re not. It’s not my choice if you haven’t trained hard enough. I’ve done that, but I should have trained harder. I think I’m a good enough athlete to win every fight, but you have to be ready when you step in there. I think there are a lot of BS athletes out there.
TE: When MMA first started getting popular, everybody and their mom was a fighter. It was the biggest joke I’d ever seen. Now you see the kids that have stuck it out and are still fighting. There are just too many posers out there. I won’t be one of them. No way will I sit here and run my mouth, announce that I am going to fight everybody, and then not fight anyone because of some stupid reason.
CS: Invicta FC recently signed a content distribution deal with the UFC to broadcast all future bouts via UFC Fight Pass. What do you think the deal does for the sport of WMMA?
TE: Our internet feed was down every time, and there was always some kind of problem. Invicta has taken it a lot farther than anyone else. There are a lot of promotions out there that try to do all women’s cards, but it was set up for failure. I still think it’s really tough to promote an all female card. Invicta has the best girls in the world, and they have the top talent, but we just don’t get the coverage. I don’t really understand it.
TE: Maybe it’s the fans that don’t care, they just want to see a couple women’s fights on a male card. But I think the talent is there for Invicta to be a mainstream promotion, and be on a real cable channel or network that people can see it in abundance. I do think it is going to go up though.
TE: The women’s MMA community is very supportive. They can’t hide which women are on TUF, they can’t hide anyone because the fans know all the female fighters. The women’s community is very supportive, and everyone talks a lot and pushes the females. It’s awesome watching the girls fight. I think that Invicta is very entertaining.

CS: This past December was your first bout with Invicta FC. How has your experience been like with the company?
TE: Shannon is great. The reason they call me is because they know I take fights. They called me and I said yes. They don’t have to convince me much. When’s the card? Let’s do it. As long as it’s against a quality fighter, or an opportunity that I can’t pass up, I’m going to take that fight. I’m not going to take anything ridiculous. If you pay me well and it’s a good opportunity, hell yeah. I’m happy to be fighting again. I like fights.
CS: On September 6th at Invicta FC 8, you will be challenging Ediane Gomes as she makes her 135lb debut. How familiar are you with Gomes and what are you expecting out of the bout?
TE: To be honest, I’ve heard her name a couple times. I don’t know a lot about her, never really cared since she wasn’t in my weight class. She hasn’t really done anything to catch my eye. That might just be because she wasn’t in my weight class. When she posted that stuff about calling out everybody, I thought how arrogant is that? How arrogant.
TE: I felt it disrespected the whole weight class. She hasn’t even made the weight class, how are you going to call out everyone? No one is afraid. People aren’t afraid that you are coming down. I don’t get it. People surprise you; maybe she is a good fighter. I’m going to put it out there, and see where it goes, see if she can handle it.
CS: This bout will take place close to where you train in Missouri. Are you anticipating any type of home field advantage?
TE: No. I think that it drives the athletes more, but I am not a believer in that. I think you perform or you don’t. It’s up to you. I like fighting in my hometown. I need someone to cheer for me. I watch them cheer for everyone else, but crickets for me. At least in Missouri I’ll have someone that knows my name.
TE: I never understood people that don’t want to fight in front of friends or family though. Why are you fighting then? Just go to the gym and train. Don’t take fights and compete if you don’t want people to watch you, or have people there that support you. That’s crazy.
CS: Outside of MMA, what do you do for fun and to relax?
TE: I don’t do anything. I work and I watch TV. I don’t do much. I hang out with my dog. My dog and I take selfies all day long. He’s a redhead just like me, full of attitude. He’s fantastic. He’s a red haired Dachshund.
TE: We like to take walks, and anything he can pee on he does. He likes to snuggle. We get some alone time, and watch TV. He’s a Dachshund with like deer legs. He has that Dachshund personality. He is always barking at things.
CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
TE: My gyms: Gracie Barra Champions, Aaron Pena. Scott Ward and Team Warrior Concepts. No-Gi BJJ Victor Pozas.
TE: My sponsors: Unique Kennels, The_Scalper. Iron Jaw Custom Mouth Guards, Dudley at Ignite,Align Chiropractic, Made MMA, RJ Contracting, ATP Mechanix, Outlaw Fight Gear, Airloop Glove, Drying Ring, Duomachy, Tap or Sleep.
TE: Jay at Fresh Start Entertainment, and Shawn Burdett.

Fighting Words: DeAnna Bennett

August 26, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Undefeated newcomer DeAnna Bennett looks to continue her upward trend, when she scuffles with Michelle Ould September 6th at Invicta FC 8.

Corey Smith: What initially attracted you to the world of martial arts? At what point did you decide it was something you wanted to pursue professionally?
DeAnna Bennett: In high school I was on the water polo team and one of the assistant coaches was also an assistant coach for the wresting team. He convinced me to join the team and I am so glad I did. I absolutely loved it.
DB: Then a few years later I found myself in Utah and took a kickboxing class in college (I needed the credit) and I liked it so much I joined the local boxing gym. That gym closed when a bigger one opened next door to it and I went over there.
DB: I did Muay Thai for a few years and really enjoyed that, but after watching the Jiu Jitsu classes out of the corner of my eye for so long, I finally braved my first class and never looked back. I’m not sure when I decided to do it professionally…
DB: If I have to say, it was probably when I entered the cage for my first amateur fight. I fought Ariel Endsley on Jeremy Horns Elite Fight Night card and I was hooked.

CS: Most MMA athletes have a home gym in which they spend the majority of their time. What gym are you currently training out of, and what makes you call it home?
DB: I train out of the Pit Elevated in Orem, UT. And, as cliché as it is, my team makes me call it home. And even beyond just my team, the people who work there and even just the general members make it my home.
DB: Everyone there is great. My team really is like my family and they are always so supportive and do everything they can to help everyone succeed.

CS: You are currently undefeated, with wins over several TUF alumni. How important is it to you to remain undefeated versus facing higher caliber competition in order to improve?
DB: I wouldn’t choose one over the other. I don’t want to hand pick my opponents just to maintain an undefeated record. I’d much rather push myself and fight high caliber opponents all while keeping my record intact.
DB: Even if I did happen to find myself not on the winning side of a fight against someone high caliber, at least I know that I can take that as a learning experience and use that to push myself in my next fight.

CS: Your nickname is the “Argentine Assassin,” yet you currently reside in Utah. Is the nickname a result of your heritage or were you born and raised in Argentina?
DB: Yes, about that. Haha. Well, to preface this story it is a result of my heritage. My mother was born and raised in Cordoba, Argentina and lived there until her late 20’s. The nickname came from when I was fighting Julianna Pena.
DB: So I was joking around with Scott Bowler, the promoter for the show we were fight on. I said “haha, well, since she is the Venezuelan Vixen, maybe I should be the Argentine Assassin.”
DB: Moral of the story, don’t joke with fight promoters because the next thing I knew he used it for the show and it ended up everywhere so I am stuck with it.
DB: I won’t complain too much though because I love Argentina. It’s a beautiful country and the heritage I predominately identify with.

CS: On September 6th at Invicta FC 8, you face off against the very experienced Michelle Ould. What are your expectations of yourself for the bout?
DB: I know this is going to be a tough fight and I definitely look forward to it. She has had a lot of fights and has been doing this for a long time and I am excited for the challenge.
DB: No matter the opponent or venue I always tell myself this is going to be my hardest fight to date and this one is no exception. (And this time it is probably 100% accurate.)
DB: I am just going to train my hardest and go out there to do my best. Make it a good show for everyone.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
DB: Is excitement a mood? My only routine is that I take my really long prefight bath and have my friend Brittany braid my hair.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
DB: My head Coach Jason Mertlich is always in my corner as well as my boyfriend/training partner Trever Mellen.
DB: I will take any feedback from my coach Jason because I know he will never steer me wrong and is hands down the best coach anyone could ask for. If he tells me to do something, I trust him and will do it.

CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
DB: I watch a lot of MMA. I love this sport and love to see different fighting techniques and see what I can take to help myself be a better fighter.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
DB: Wait; there is an outside of MMA and the gym? Just kidding. I love hockey. I’ve played since I was 11 year old, unfortunately I haven’t been able to play in a while, but I still love it. I keep hoping to free up some time to play one of these days.
DB: If I can’t play it, I can still love my team, the San Jose Sharks. They made me real sad this last year in the playoffs, but I still love them.
DB: I also love mountain biking. There are a ton of great places in Utah to go mountain biking. I also love to swim. I’ve done it my whole life and I can swim for days.
DB: I find reading relaxing and I love to sit back with a good book, no specific genre, I love fiction, non-fiction, whatever I’m really feeling at the moment.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
DB: I would like to thank my coaches, Jason Mertlich and Arnold Anderton. They spend so much time away from their families working to help us get better and succeed and words can’t describe how grateful I am for everything they do.
DB: I also want to thank all of the Pit Elevated fight team, all the guys and girls there; I wouldn’t be who I am without them.
DB: Will Ferrar for giving all of us there a beautiful gym to train out of and always supporting us.
DB: Dr. Dustin Drussel for helping to keep me in one piece, Arthur Kleinfelder as well. Rob Roveta and Scott Bowler for helping me out so much.
DB: The guys at Pro Formulations Labs for supporting me too and feeding me Warrior Fuel.
DB: Bas Rutten, Dynamic Fastener, and Vivint Home Security (my day job) for supporting me in this fight camp as well.
DB: Also all of my friends, family, and supporters, y’all make it possible to keep going even when I get a bit discouraged.
DB: And lastly, but definitely not least Trever for putting up with me when I’m hangry (hungry+angry), it’s a difficult feat, but he manages it.

Fighting Words: Ediane Gomes

August 26, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Making the drop to 135lbs, grizzled veteran Ediane Gomes looks to defeat fellow veteran Tonya Evinger September 6th at Invicta FC 8 in a pivotal bantamweight affair.

Corey Smith: What initially drew you to the world of martial arts? What has kept you motivated to continue improving throughout the years?
Ediane Gomes: I started training Jiu-Jitsu in my teenage years, just to be out of the streets for a little. What motivated me to keep going was that I saw it was something I truly loved. All I can say is this is all I can do. All my life was about fighting. It’s like I was born to be a fighter and a fighter only.

CS: You currently train at American Top Team in Florida, but have had trouble finding female training partners in your weight class. Has that situation improved?
EG: No, I continue to train like I usually do, I train with guys only and I find it better for me

CS: Regarding weight classes, your upcoming bout will mark your 135lb debut. What challenges have you had dropping down to 135?
EG: I always wanted to drop to 135lbs; I believe this is my weight class. This motivated me to train even harder and eat leaner. I believe getting used to eating lean 24/7 is a challenge, but I am here now and here to stay.

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?
EG: For me, there’s no hardest part this is something I love to do. I enjoy every aspect of being a fighter. I love everything. It makes who I am today.

CS: You spoke often about your desire to fight Cris Cyborg. Where does that desire come from?
EG: I was a big fan to Cris, until I noticed she never really says my name on her interviews only REFERS TO ME AS THE BRAZILIAN girl, SHE never really mentioned my name. I think it’s very disrespectful. One day I will mark my name on her face.

CS: Your opponent on September 6th at Invicta FC 8, Tonya Evinger, is a highly respected veteran of the sport. What challenges do you foresee in the bout?
EG: My challenge is to fight, I want to fight and do whatever it takes to do what it needs to be done. That is, bringing my victory back home

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
EG: My mood is pretty much focusing. I feel like hey this is it, fight day, can’t wait to go in the cage and kick ass. What I do, is I pray to God and go to war.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
EG: My corners. I like to hear that I’m ready and let’s do this.

CS: For those that have not experienced it, how would you describe the walk out to the cage?
EG: I feel like I can do whatever I want to do. I feel like I am free to play.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
EG: I like to go to the movies, and reading the Bible helps me to relax.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
EG: First of all, I want to thank God for giving me opportunity and placing amazing people in my life. Shannon Knapp for always taking care of the athletes, my team at ATT, my manager Linda , and my love, and all my sponsors and you for taking time to do this interview!

Fighting Words: Irene Aldana

August 22, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Mexican knockout artist Irene Aldana debuts for Invicta FC September 6th at Inivcta FC 8 when she takes on UFC Veteran, Peggy Morgan.

Corey Smith: What initially drew you to the world of mixed martial arts? What kept you coming back?
Irene Aldana: Curiosity. A few years ago I was looking for some sport to do in Guadalajara, because I just moved in to the city. While chatting with a good friend of mine, he told me stories about his MMA training experience.
IA: I got interested and really curious, so I went to take my test class, since then I fell in love with the sport and stayed.
IA: What keeps me coming back is the adrenaline, the beauty of the sport, love all techniques there are involved, the way you can always be learning something new, the challenge to improve professionally and personally every day.
IA: The goals I have to accomplish, the love and motivation of my team mates, the family we have made, and the journey we are doing together.

CS: You live and train in Mexico, which is somewhat rare in the MMA community. How would you describe the MMA community in Mexico?
IA: MMA in Mexico is growing fast; there are a lot of really MMA talented men and women. Mexicans are great warriors with a big heart. Now the UFC is coming to Mexico and just filmed TUF Latino-America. This is going to be big and great for the sport here.

CS: All of your wins thus far have come via knockout. Are you actively searching for the KO or do they just present themselves?
IA: I’m always looking for the win. I love to finish via knockout but I’m not really looking for it, all my knockouts had presented themselves. I’m prepared to win where the fight goes.

CS: After signing with Invicta FC, what goals do you have within the organization? How has your experience been like thus far with the company?
IA: Everyone working for Invicta has been so nice with us, so professional. Invicta is an excellent company, very well directed, and they really care about the wellness of their fighters.
IA: They make us feel so exited and confident we know we are in good hands and that it’s going to be a very exciting journey. My goal here is to give the best of me as a fighter and as a person. Keep improving and keep growing professionally and I hope someday to win a title shot.

CS: Your opponent on September 6th, Peggy Morgan, brings a similar level of experience with her into the cage. What are you expecting out of the bout?
IA: I think she has a little more experience, and she is a great fighter. I think its going to be a really good match up. I have been training so hard for my debut in Invicta. Like I said I’m always looking for the win but I also know how to lose. Most of all I hope this is a really exciting fight to watch.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
IA: I don’t have superstitions. I like to enjoy that moment with my team. Once we have recapped the game plan, I like to listen to music, and just be mentally focused.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
IA: My head coach Francisco Grasso, his brother Luis Grasso, and my teammate Alexa. I like the way they motivate me, they know how to make realistic and clear instructions that are easy to understand without stressing me.

CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
IA: Really often, I love to see K1 , BJJ tournaments, and of course UFC. All for learning and enjoyment.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
IA: Spending time at home relaxes me, I love to enjoy my house, spend time with my pets, read, play a good video game, watch a good movie, or spend time with friends and family. Also enjoy going to dinner at a good restaurant.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
IA: First my head coach Francisco Grasso, and my head coach at physical conditioning Fernando Quiroz.
IA: Also a big part of the team my coaches Tito Castro, Iuri Silva, and Roberto Ramirez.
IA: All my team mates, Alexa Grasso, Hoodler, and Daniel Esquivel. Just to mention some, because they are much more names here.
IA: To my family for their love and support, to our friends, sponsors and managers: Luis Grasso and the Alaniz brothers.
IA: All the companies that have been supportive in my career.
IA: I can’t write all names but to all the people that have been with me in this amazing journey. Definitely I would not be here if not for them.

Fighting Words: Peggy Morgan

August 21, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Invicta newcomer and UFC alumni Peggy Morgan will test herself against fellow Invicta rookie Irena Aldana September 6th at Invicta FC 8 in a pivotal Bantamweight bout.
Corey Smith: What initially drew you to Mixed Martial arts? Was there a specific moment that you realized you had the talent and desire to fight professionally?
Peggy Morgan: I came to MMA by way of boxing and kickboxing. I boxed and kickboxed as an amateur for a number of years. I stopped in 2008 when I got pregnant with my son. I didn’t plan to return to fighting, but I started learning BJJ for fun and it wasn’t long before my training partners convinced to take an amateur fight.
PM: There wasn’t really a moment that I decided to become a pro fighter. It happened more or less by accident. I took my first pro fight because an amateur fight I’d been preparing for fell through and a promoter called to offer me a professional fight.

CS: How long had you been training before going into the TUF house? What was that experience like for you?
PM: I’d only been training for about two years when I went into the TUF house. I knew going into it that I was still a little rough, but it was a great experience and a great opportunity.
PM: At the time the whole thing seemed just incredibly surreal. I never imagined that women would be on TUF and I certainly never imagined that I would be. At the same time, it was definitely difficult to be away from my family and friends. I missed my son, and it was hard to be separated from the people I count on for support.
PM: I think it was especially difficult for me because I didn’t really know any of the other contestants going into the show. Most of them knew each other and many had already fought, and I felt like a bit of an outsider.

CS: After the filming of TUF, you lost a decision to Jessamyn Duke. What lessons did you take away from that bout?

PM: To be honest, the bout with Jessamyn reaffirmed what I already knew about myself as a fighter. I knew I was incredibly tough but also very inexperienced.
PM: Skill wise, I had a lot to learn and a lot to refine. Following the loss, I got right back into the gym and started working to improve every aspect of my game.

CS: On the subject of lessons, you are also a professor of composition and literature. How do you juggle the two vastly different careers?
PM: Well, I’m not teaching right now, so I’m not really juggling them at all. It was really quite difficult to do both well. I ended up having to make a choice, and for the moment, I’ve chosen to fight.

CS: How has your experience been like thus far with Invicta FC? What do you think the Invicta/UFC FightPass does for the future of WMMA?
PM: So far my experience with Invicta FC has been very positive. I’m excited to be working with such an outstanding promotion. Before signing with Invicta, I heard nothing but positive things about the organization and about Shannon Knapp.
PM: The Invicta/UFC Fight Pass deal is awesome for WMMA. It gives women’s MMA more exposure and will lead to greater opportunities both for Invicta and for female athletes.

CS: Your opponent on September 6th, Irene Aldana, steps into the cage having secured all of her victories via KO or TKO. What are your expectations of the bout?
I expect a war! Obviously Aldana is a tough woman and a good fighter. I don’t expect it to be an easy matchup, but I do expect to come out on top. I’m not easy to put away, and I don’t think you’ll find many athletes physically and mentally tougher than I am.
PM: I’m also hoping to show everyone how much I’ve grown since my UFC fight. I’ve put in a lot of work and I really feel I’ve improved in every way since November.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
PM: I’m usually calm and happy. I enjoy fighting. No routines or superstitions.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
PM: I’ve had many different corner people in my short career. Probably the most consistent corner person has been Chuck O’Neil from season 13 of TUF. I’ve only been training with my head coach, Nate Ryan, for the past year and a half, but he’s become essential to my corner. His style of coaching works very well for me. He’s calm and low key; he doesn’t scream and climb the side of the cage or anything.
PM: I also like to have Jimmy Quinlan from season 17 of TUF because he has a great eye for the sport and he’s one of the best wrestling coaches around. Since I only have two corners for this fight, Nate and Jimmy will be walking with me to the cage.

CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
PM: I don’t watch a lot of MMA. I enjoy it when I do watch it, it’s just I don’t have a lot of time. When I’m not training or taking care of my son, I’m usually sleeping.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
PM: I don’t have a ton of spare time, but when I do, I like to read. I’m a huge nerd. There aren’t many things I enjoy more than curling up in bed with a book

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
PM: Okay, this is going to be a huge list. Firstly, I want to thank my coach, Nate Ryan. I also want to thank Jimmy Quinlan for agreeing to corner me/trying to teach me how to wrestle and Chuck O’Neil for pushing me.
PM: Everyone who trains with me and helps me to get better, but especially Tara Tremelling who comes in to spar with me religiously even though she isn’t currently fighting and has nothing to gain from it personally.
PM: Mike McCandless from Smartpowders.com for helping me in more ways than I can ennumerate.
PM: Linda Weenan Kriner for being an awesome manager.
PM: All of my sponsors for their support.
PM: Kyle Breire from Strength Lab NH.
PM: My family for putting up with me, particularly my son, Oliver, because it can’t be easy to have a crazy fighter mother.
PM: Invicta for giving me this opportunity, and the fans for supporting WMMA and making it what it is now and what it will be in the future.

Fighting Words: Roxanne Modafferi

August 19, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Women’s MMA pioneer Roxanne Modafferi will return to the cage September 6th at Invicta FC 8, when she squares off against fellow veteran Tara Larosa in a featured Flyweight bout.

In the rubber match of MMA’s friendliest rivalry, “The Happy Warrior” will look to establish herself as force to be reckoned with in Invicta’s 125lb division.

Corey Smith: Initially entering into the world of martial arts via Taekwondo as a teenager, you then transitioned into various other disciplines. What was it that drew you to martial arts? What kept your interest after your initial entry?
Roxanne Modafferi: I first started martial arts because I thought it looked cool. My passion for it grew, and I wanted to try as many disciplines as I could, and get stronger. Then I developed a love for Judo and jiu-jitsu as a sport, and wanted to try to compete on a higher and higher level.
CS: After majoring in Japanese, you naturally moved to Japan where you had a storied overseas career. How would you describe the main differences between the American and Japanese MMA communities?
RM: When I first moved to Japan, I felt like the Japanese accepted MMA and martial arts as a way of life more publically, where as in the USA people always gave the “Oh, don’t kung-fu me!” *fake fear* attitude. Eight years later, UFC Is on regular TV and I’m respected as a professional athlete.

CS: Your nickname, the “Happy Warrior,” seems to apply to you both inside and outside the cage. Where does that aspect of your personality originate?
RM: I always try and see the positive side of all situations. I’m generally a happy person, and I let it show.
CS: As one of the original pioneers of WMMA, what advice would you give to an up and coming athlete in the sport?
RM: Find a coach and a gym that will believe in you, and make an effort to help you grow. Listen to their advice. Be prepared to make sacrifices, either with your social life or working a crappy job to train, but always have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong with your career, like injury. Get an education if possible. Be passionate, but smart.
CS: You returned to the United States to participate in the first season of The Ultimate Fighter to feature female athletes. What was that experience like for you?
RM: It was a fantastic, eye-opening experience, showing me all the possibilities of what I could be. I grew so much as a person and athlete.
CS: You recently signed with Invicta FC. What has your experience been like with the company? What are your goals with Invicta?
RM: My goals are to win fights.
CS: On September 6th at Invicta FC 8, you will complete a trilogy with fellow veteran Tara Larosa. You each own a win over the other. What are you expecting out of the bout?
RM: It will be a hard back-and-forth battle. She is strong and talented, and I’ve improved so much since I last fought. I can’t wait to show the world what I’ve been doing at Syndicate MMA Fight Gym for the past year.
CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
RM: I watch fighting anime if I’m at home. I take walks if I’m at a hotel. I like to fantasize how awesome my life will be after I win. I visualize the fight a lot.
CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
RM: I used to not watch it too much when I was in Japan, because I didn’t have time. I worked, trained, and slept. People don’t have house parties to watch fights in Japan because people’s houses are so small it’s hard to entertain. Nowadays, I’m living in the US and I go over my coach’s house with the team a few times a month and watch fights. It’s awesome.
CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
RM: I watch Japanese anime and wrote blogs. I always take walks after meals and listen to music.
CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
RM: First, I’d like to thank the head coach at the gym John Wood, for his great instruction, and assistant coaches Mike Pyle, John Gunderson, Vinny Magalhaes and Casey Milliken.
RM: Thanks to my team, training partners, and manager Shu. Thanks to my current sponsors Herbal Papaya and Intimidation Clothing.
RM: And a special thanks to my wonderful loyal fans and friends, who send me love, support and socks. I have the best fans ever!
RM: A very special thanks to my mother who moved from Massachusetts to Las Vegas to be with me, support me, pay for my yoga studio membership and the rent, and bake me healthy banana bread.

Fighting Words: Michelle Ould

August 19, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

Itching to get back in the cage and make a statement, Michelle Ould will scuffle with Deanna Bennett September 6th at Invicta FC 8.

Corey Smith: Invicta FC recently signed a content distrubtion deal with the UFC, specifically via UFC Fight Pass. What impact do you believe the deal will have on the future on WMMA?

Michelle Ould: Well one can only hope that more females that participate in MMA will be given the attention and respect they deserve, not just the few & far between ‘standouts’ or ones that can pass the red tape to make it onto TUF.

MO: I’m hoping this will be the platform needed to boost our exposure and all the positive things that come along with that kind of exposure, such as sponsorships etc that help keep us going.

CS: You tried out for the most recent season of TUF, despite it being a weight class below your normal class. What was that experience like?

MO: It was interesting. Disappointing that I made it then something stupid came up that prevented me from getting in the house, but whatever I’m over it. Hopefully I will work with the UFC in the future but I’m just going with the flow and grateful to have a home at InvictaFC.

CS: You have trained the past several years out of Team Quest. For a female athlete, what are the advantages of training out of Team Quest?

MO: Same as any other gym. There are advantages & disadvantages; a lot of the time you won’t have anyone your own size to go with but then again sometimes that makes you work harder.

MO: There’s a lot of really successful fighters out of our gym that are super helpful and still grounded and helpful enough to extend their vast knowledge. Better yet, still sit around and discuss ways they can improve their game despite being considered some of the best in the world.

MO: Keeps you hungry & down to earth; I’ve seen guys win titles at other gyms that don’t handle it with near as much humility and nobility.

CS: Your bout in September will mark the end of a nearly two year layoff from the cage for you. Do you have any concerns with ring rust?

MO: Ring rust is a myth. I’ve been training hard despite having no idea when I will fight again. I’ve had layoffs before, and I come back better every time. I use it as time to pick myself apart and work on my weaknesses, and to fill out the holes in my physical & mental game.

MO: Sometimes when you’re just in training camp back to back you don’t have time to evolve. Of course that’s not ideally what I would want, 2 years off. But I couldn’t control what Bellator did by holding my contract exclusively then cutting us then I was signed with Invicta, then having to wait a whole year before having the opportunity to work for them.

MO: It taught me patience and definitely reminded me that this is what I want to continue doing; otherwise all of those inconveniences would have probably led a less passionate fighter to possibly retiring.

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 8, Deanna Bennett, brings an undefeated record with her into the cage. What are your expectations of the bout?

MO: I basically know nothing of her style aside from being aggressive, so I expect to be fighting a total stud in every way since my coaches can’t find any footage on her. She’s up amd coming and hungry so I’m prepared for that. Should be a scrappy bout.

CS: What is your mood on fight night?

MO: Always different. I tend to thrive in chaos; it actually calms me. But as I get older and with every fight it changes a little – which is good. Adaptation is what makes a successful fighter and that’s what I always aim to do in every situation; adapt.

CS: Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?

MO: As long as everything is chaotic and going wrong in one way or another I know it’s going to be a good night. If it all goes smoothly, I get worried.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?

MO: Bryan Harper, whom I refer to as Yoda. As long as I can hear them then that’s what I do. They know me and I trust them.

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

MO: I go through phases. Sometimes it gets old with how saturated the market is right now. I prefer watching the smaller weights and proven well-rounded guys that keep the ‘art’ in mixed martial arts.

MO: And any girl fight. I’m a fan of all of them. I’m a huge fan of Benavidez, Saffedeine, Joanne Calderwood, Miriam Nakamoto, and Kevin Ross to name a few.

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

MO: I like to do nothing. Doing nothing is awesome. Crowds and obligations give me anxiety and make me want to drink which is not something I enjoy much these days so I avoid it by staying home or doing things in non-crowded situations.

MO: Which can be hard when you have kids. Sometimes I have to bite the bullet and take them out in public lol. If I had it my way I would seriously live off the grid. That’s been my mentality lately.

MO: I love people but sometimes (most of the time), I over think things and am pretty good at reading people which usually leads to disappointment. I used to voice how I felt about it until I realized it usually doesn’t change anything and makes me just hate people in general some days.

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

MO: Lately I’ve had a skid in the luck department as far as finances, sponsorship, and management goes-although I planned things out financially for this training camp it went sour and women like Sam Wilson & Linda Kriner saved me from pulling out my hair.

MO: Of course my coaches and teammates at Team Quest, especially John Davis who has put a lot of time and effort into my individual strength and conditioning.

MO: I’ve had a lot of companies provide me with essentials such as Caveman Coffee, Soapalicious, Onnit, RevGear, Future Legend, Quadsnotincluded, Vehement Fight Co (which is products made from 100% organic vegan friendly material).

MO: Plus sponsors such as AmericanaMMA, MMARoadHog, SportsFoodInc, HypeXtreme, XionX bands, Primal Cravings, Goomba to Goomba Productions, Ignite, Tilted Kilt Temecula, FlatIron Sports Injury, and Perfect Tan Temecula.

MO: A lot of fans, teammates, and friends have come forward and helped contribute to the FundMe campaign I started once I found out my finances weren’t going to come through to make it through camp, or even to pay for the essentials, like bills and kid’s school supplies.

MO: All of these people and companies have helped alleviate these stressors so I can just focus on what a fighter needs to do to prepare for battle and with whatever time I have left focus on lecturing my kids lol.

MO: Seriously I am so appreciative of all of you it almost makes me want to cry. But seeing as I am a soulless b*tch, please just take my word for it ;).

Fighting Words: Ashley Cummins

August 14, 2014

by InvictaFC Interviews

St. Louis police officer and Invicta FC Straweight Ashley Cummins, returns September 6th, when she welcomes Alexa Grasso to the Invicta cage in a three round affair.

Corey Smith: Your entry in Mixed Martial Arts came after a soccer career filled with fights. How did it feel to finally find a proper outlet for your aggression? What was training like early on?
Ashley Cummins: Yeah I was getting into fights on the soccer field a lot. It felt good. I did Tae Kwon Do growing up, but the only thing I liked about that was sparring. On the soccer fields, I was the captain of my team. So if anyone ever cheap shotted any of my teammates, I would make sure to handle it, which is how I got into fights all the time.
AC: I knew all I wanted to do was fight. I was naturally just an aggressive athlete. I wanted to try mixed martial arts, so my sophomore year of college I gave up my soccer scholarship, in order to train full time. I fell in love with the sport immediately.
AC: Literally the first day, at the first MMA gym I trained at, I fell in love with the sport. It just felt right. I knew this was what I had wanted to do for years. I always thought, in my opinion, that MMA is the toughest sport out there. I wanted to mentally know that I could do it, that I could accomplish this goal that I have.
AC: I started training full time, and also being a student. Originally I didn’t jump into MMA, I did Jiu Jitsu, and then I did Muay Thai. I was at an MMA gym, but I separated it, to be able to get good at both aspects. Then of course I did wrestling as well. I had a couple Muay Thai fights before I had my first MMA fight, and also competed in some grappling tournaments.
AC: So when I started in my MMA career, I definitely had a lot of experience under my belt. I waited two and half years before I took my first amateur MMA fight, and within those two and half years I had 7 or 8 Muay Thai fights and probably competed in ten grappling tournaments. So I went into my amateur career with a lot of experience under my belt.

CS: This will be your first appearance in the cage in over a year; do you have any concerns of ring rust?
AC: Not at all. After my first fight for Invicta, I fought on a Saturday and that Monday I was back at the gym training already. I haven’t taken time off since my last fight. I spar a lot, so I don’t think ring rust is going to be a problem at all.

CS: During the layoff, what areas did you focus on to improve your skills? What was the layoff like for you?
AC: There was nothing specific that I focused on; I just went and trained every day over the past year. Normal training. I train all aspects of the game. I do boxing, Muay Thai, wrestling , Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu. I always want to try to be a well rounded fighter. I’ve trained all aspects since my last fight, and I definitely have improved a whole lot since my last fight. I am really excited to show the world my skills.

CS: What were your thoughts when you first heard the announcement regarding Invicta FC airing on UFC FightPass?
AC: I was very excited when I heard the news. I think it is going to open more opportunities for female athletes. It’s going to help show the world what Women’s MMA is all about. UFC FightPass is shown throughout the world, so it’s going to get more fans, and help the females out in every aspect possible. It will help the female side of MMA grow. I think that it was a great decision.

CS: Your opponent on September 6th, is undefeated Alexa Grasso. How familiar are you with Alexa, and what are your expectations for the bout?
AC: I know she is 4-0, and she is from Mexico. All of her fights have been at 125lbs; I don’t think she has ever fought at 115lbs. I have seen a couple of her videos, and she is a very talented fighter, but anyone that fights for Invicta is going to be talented. She is definitely a tough opponent, and I look forward to it.
AC: I never take easy fights. I always want to fight people that are going to push me, and help me become a better fighter. I think she is well rounded, and I think I am well rounded, so I think it’s a very good matchup. Invicta always has good matchups. All of the fights they put on are even and fair, and I am excited. I’m expecting Fight of the Night out of our fight.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
AC: I am very blessed and I have a great coaching staff behind me. My MMA coach Steve Berger; he’s phenomenal. The best coach that I have ever worked with throughout my career. Very encouraging.
AC: Before fights, I’m nervous like everyone is, and he always calms me down. I’ve always put in the hard work for every camp I’ve had. During the bout, he’s very technical. I can hear him clearly in my corner, and he is very helpful during the fight with instructions. I think that I have been working with him for so long, that I can pick out his voice very easily.

CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
AC: I work full time, and I train, so I don’t get to watch much TV. Every once and a while I’ll catch a couple friends and we will go up to Buffalo Wild Wings, and we’ll watch the UFC. There isn’t anyone in particular that I always have to see.

CS: Along with being a fighter, you are also a police officer. Which profession benefits the other the most?
AC: To be honest, I think that it’s about even. They both help the other in different ways. MMA training obviously helps my police work with staying in shape, so when people run from me or I get in a foot pursuit I’m always in great shape year round.
AC: It helps with self defense, when people resist arrest or try to attack me; my MMA has come in handy several times in the past four years that I’ve been an officer. I’m very thankful that I’ve always stayed safe and been able to go home to my family at the end of my shift.
AC: Being an officer helps being a fighter more so in the mental aspects. I patrol a part of St. Louis that’s pretty dangerous, a lot of gang activity, shootings and stabbings. I go into scary situations sometimes. Mentally you have to push forward. Whenever everyone else is running away from gunshots, I have to go towards them.
AC: That helps me in the cage, because in my mind, when I’m warming up for a fight, and about to go in the cage I think this is nothing like running towards gunshots. It’s a fight. It’s fun, it’s supposed to challenge you mentally and physically, and then the three rounds are up. The ref is there to make sure everyone is safe.
AC: When I’m on duty, you don’t know what’s going to happen; you don’t know what’s expected. Mentally the situations as an officer help me with being a fighter that it’s just a fight. It’s not life or death.

CS: Outside of police work, and MMA, you also enjoy being involved with animal rescue. How involved are you in Animal Rescue?
AC: I’ve been very involved with rescuing stray and abused animals my entire life, even before I was an officer. I do it even more now that I’m an officer because I patrol a poverty area of St. Louis, so there are a lot of strays running around. I volunteer for St. Louis Pet Rescue in St. Louis. I do a lot of volunteer work.

AC:When I’m on duty I’m always finding strays, or animals that have been abused. I take them to my house and rehabilitate them and foster them to find them great homes. It is definitely a huge passion of mine. Animals are defenseless; they don’t have a voice so we need to be their voice. It’s a big part of my life, and my family’s life.

AC:Anytime I can spread the word to stop animal abuse, I do it every chance that I get.

CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
AC: I’m a big movie buff. I love going to the movie theater, or chilling on the couch and putting on a good movie. It always relaxes me, and gets my mind off things. That’s probably the main thing I like to do if I’m not at work or training.

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
AC: I want to thank my coaches and teammates at Berger MMA, and my strength and condition coaches at Victory Training. I want to thank Gracie Humata St. Louis for all their help.
AC: My manager, Hector Castro with Empire Sports Marketing.
AC: My sponsors; Fear The Fighter, XionX Band, Tussle Fight Gear, Fight Chix, Fear The Fighter Energy.
AC: And of course all my family and friends for always supporting me with my dreams.