MMA Fighter Duane Bastress Interview

What was the recruiting process like when you were in high school for your wrestling abilities?

To be honest, I wasn’t really heavily recruited. I had a few colleges looking at me, such as Bloomsburg University, York College, The Citadel, and Franklin & Marshall. I didn't get any scholarship money when I first went Bloomsburg until after first semester when they decided to give me $500 a semester.

You ended up going to York College and winning two D-3 national championships. Do you think you can compete with a lot of wrestlers in D-1 programs?

There is no doubt in my mind that I could compete at the Division 1 Level. During my time at York, I beat guys from, Penn St., Lehigh, Clarion, Duke( 2x ACC Champ), Maryland, Lock Haven, & Delaware State to name a few. After I won nationals my senior year, I was ranked #3 out of all 184 pounders in all divisions ( I, II, III).

Can you describe the transition from wrestling to competing in mixed martial arts?

I was never into fighting and I'm still not into fighting. That’s street fighting. The hardest thing for me to learn was the striking game. I watched videos and went to practice, but after my first pro fight I went to my dad (Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do) to teach me. However, I fell in love with the grappling part. I continue to work tremendously hard at every aspect of the fight game.

With your wrestling pedigree and your current record; have you gotten any attention from major MMA promotions like UFC, Strikeforce, Bellator, etc?

To this point, I haven't heard anything from the major promotions. The goal however is to make it into a major promotion before the end of the year or early next year. I seriously am taking one day, one training session, one lift, and one fight a time. I will let the other stuff figure it out. I just try to control what I can and worry about that.

What does your training schedule look like when you are currently training for a fight?

I work from 7am - 2:30pm. I lift from 3:30-4:15pm. Coach wrestling practice at York College from 4:15-5:45/6pm. Then I usually have stand up from 7:30-8:15/:30pm. If I am scheduled to, I will have a run/cardio workout later that night. A typical week might look like this.

Mon: Lift, Wrestle, Stand up
Tues: Cardio, Stand up
Wed: Lift, Wrestle & Ground (MMA)
Thurs: Cardio, Stand up
Fri: Lift, Wrestle, Stand up
Sat: Rest
Sun: Cardio, Ground (MMA)

I also listen to my body and how it is feeling. If it starts to get run down then maybe take a training session off here and there. I also start to back off with the hard training the closer I get to a fight. The week prior to a fight, the workouts intensity backs off. All of my training sessions are short and intense. Once we get started, it's none stop for around an hour.

Would you like to thank anyone (family, friends, coaches, sponsors, etc)

I definitely have a lot of people I would like to thank. First off would have to be my parents & sister. They have been there from day one of my wrestling career and now my fighting career. The next person is my fiancé. All four of them keep me humble and motivated to be the best individual & fighter that I can possibly be. I definitely have to give a BIG thank you to Chad Strawbridge & my dad! They are my coaches and push me to new highs and teach me something new every time we have a training session! Also, to my close personal friends who have always been there for me. Lastly I would like to thank the rest of my supporters who are at all my fights. They are by far the loudest group at the fights & that’s what makes it exciting for me. Thank you to everyone & I appreciate everything anyone has ever done for me!

MMA Fighter Tom Gallicchio Interview

Tom Gallicchio is currently participating in the M-1 Global tournament and has made it to the finals. He competes with Rhino Fight Team.

How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

I got involved in mma about 5 years ago. I was done with wrestling in high school and couldn’t afford college to wrestle. I talked to my wrestling coach at elite wrestling and saw Frankie Edgar had a fight. I said where is he training, I want in. They pointed me to team rhino and 6 months later, I had my first fight against Marc Stevens.

How often do you train and how long does each training session last?

I train about 2 to 3 times a day for about 4 hours total.

What is your favorite part of being a mixed martial arts fighter?

I just love to fight and just fighting in general.

What is your ultimate goal you want to achieve as a mixed martial artist?

To be able to do what I love and make living from it.

There have been rumors all over the MMA world that M-1 Global has a financial issue. Can you describe what it is like to compete in a major promotion like M-1 Global.

It feels great to be in this M-1 tournament and get the recognition I deserve. It’s not over yet, there are still to fights to go!

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I would like to thank Clinch gear and all my training partners and coaches.

MMA Fighter Lucas Taber Interview

Lucas Taber is a MMA fighter who has fought for promotions like the King of the Cage and Gladiator Challenge.


How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

My first exposure to MMA was really an accident. At the time, around 1999 I was a Marine in Okinawa, Japan; and I had no idea what Mixed Martial Arts or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was. I had heard the term "UFC" before, but in my mind I associated it more with pro wrestling and worked fights than I did combat sports. I had a friend who would tell me stories of another friend who trained in jiu jitsu. I decided to see for myself what all the fuss about this guy was. Needless to say, I got a quick, first hand lesson in the "gentle art" by a much smaller man who had half the physical strength I did. The first time he submitted me, I was like a young child being exposed to magic for the first time. I didn't understand it, but I was completely amazed and awed by it. After our session, he took time to explain to me about the UFC and its history. A few weeks later I came across VHS copies of UFC 2 & UFC 4... I was hooked. I became an instant fan and began collecting videos from all over the world, reading and watching whatever I could about Jiu Jitsu, MMA, and submission grappling, and their histories. As soon as I returned home to California, I immediately found a phone book and began my Jiu Jitsu training. Like so many other people, the more I began to grow and learn in Jiu Jitsu, the more passionate about it I became. There were a few years that I had to take away from the mats due to severe injuries unrelated to Jiu Jitsu training, but when I was able to roll again and looking for a new place to train, a mutual friend introduced me to Thomas Denny. After only a few days, Thomas asked if I was interested in fighting MMA. I considered myself a super fan of MMA and a pseudo-analyst of the sport, but I had always thought about fighting as a "someday I might" sort of thing. I went to work right away, training and learning the skills that would make me a mixed martial artist, not just a grappler. "Someday" had come much sooner than I had ever expected.

Currently you are working on achieving your black belt in BJJ. What would it mean to you when you finally earn that prestigious black belt?

Everyday, in some way, I'm working towards getting my black belt in JiuJitsu. That is one of my ultimate goals in life. I couldn't tell you how I'll feel when that day comes, because it'll be the culmination of so much for me. "Success is the journey not the destination," and it is everything and everyone I've met or learned on this journey that would make it so special. More important to me than "receiving" a black belt is "earning" it. I don't want to be handed a black belt for my time in an academy, like so many people are today. More important to me than receiving that belt is putting my name in the history of Jiu Jitsu beside some of the greatest competitors and instructors in the world; men, who I have followed, studied, admired, and looked up to throughout my journey. When that belt is finally wrapped around my waist, I want to know that I have the respect of my peers and the Jiu Jitsu community, both through my on the mat abilities and as an instructor. That is what's really important to me.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

When I'm not training, watching, or daydreaming about MMA or Jiu Jitsu, I'm probably near water or daydreaming about being near water. I love the ocean, swimming, surfing, boating, floating, beaches, islands, lakes, rivers, pools... you name it. I don't watch too much TV, but I love movies. My DVD collection is enormous; I spend too much money buying movies, renting movies, and at the theaters. I've always loved movies. I'm into most sports. So many MMA fighters and fans I know don't like or follow too many other sports outside of combat sports, but I do. I like all sports, but I'm a big fan of NCAA football and MLB baseball.

When is your next scheduled bout and how are you preparing for it?

I don't have any fights currently planned or set in stone. My goal for this year was to get back to improving fundamentals and basics in training, and stay as active as I can, both in the gym and competition. I wanted to fight as often as I could, just to stay continuous. Earlier this year I broke my arm while sparring. The training accident resulted in my arm being completely casted for almost 6 months. It was a disappointing setback, but I plan to get right back to the gym, and hopefully I will be fighting again soon.

What it’s like to train with a MMA veteran like Thomas Denny?

My first experience with Thomas Denny was the exact opposite of what I expected it to be. Before I ever met Thomas, I had seen him fight live and had heard all about his "Wildman" reputation. That wasn't the image that I wanted to represent this sport and I had an image in my head of Thomas Denny as a wild, flamboyant, thuggish brawler. He was a true life example of, "never judge a book by its cover." Not at all what I thought of the "Wildman," he was clean cut, well spoken, and very respectful. I hadn't even met him yet, and he was giving clear, concise, accurate instructions as I was sparring lightly in the ring. I watched as he did the same with some of his own fighters. It was immediately clear to me that Thomas had an underrated vision for the technical aspect of this sport. I hear many MMA writers, analysts and so called pundits of this sport write Thomas Denny off, or refuse to take him seriously because of the "Wildman" image, his up and down professional record, or maybe because of some lackluster performances... Don't let any of that fool you. As a coach and a mentor, he is absolutely phenomenal. I trained with Thomas for nearly 5 years and I was always amazed when we would travel to MMA events together, and world champions and coaches from the UFC and Pride would come and ask him for advice, tips, game plans, and strategies. I've been fortunate enough to travel quite a bit and train all over the world at some of the most prestigious and best regarded gyms in this business, and still haven't seen too many that can put the details into training and preparation like Thomas can. Thomas truly is a veteran of the sport and he brings that intricate knowledge of not only the tactical side of fighting, but the physical and mental preparation as well like few else I've seen. He gave me a lot of tools and help inside and outside of the sport, and he never asked for anything in return. I'm very thankful to have started my MMA career with him, because it's given me a lot of insight I don't think I could've gained anywhere else.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

There are so many people who have supported me, befriended me, and helped me along this journey... it's amazing. My best friend, Rachael for always supporting and motivating me. So many of my coaches and instructors who have inspired me and given me the greatest gift of knowledge; Thomas Denny, Jean Jacques Machado, Wander Braga, Bob Chaney, and many others. I'd like to thank the great fans of this sport, who keep it alive and continue to make it grow beyond everyone's expectations every day! THANKS!

MMA Fighter Shane Garrett

Shane Garrett is a veteran mixed martial arts fighter who fought before mixed martial arts became popular.

How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

After UFC 3 came to Tulsa, my brother in-law came home from the event talking about a skinny Brazilian named Royce(he pronounced the R) Gracie tying people in knot's. So, I checked it out at Blockbuster and was hooked!!!! Then I started watching Pancrase and any type of NHB (that's what us old-timers called it) I could find.

There is this new wave of mixed martial arts fighters all over the country that have only started martial arts because of the UFC. You, on the other hand, have fought a few years before the UFC became popular. What was the reason you decided to step into the ring/cage and fight?

I had always been bullied throughout my life up until age 17. That was another thing my brother in law helped me overcome. Then after watching the UFC's, it just progressed into something I wanted to do. It also helps pick up chicks.

According to Sherdog.com and mixedmartialarts.com, you took almost a 6 year hiatus between fights. Are there any particular reasons behind it?

Life happens is all I can say. But I can thank my wife for motivating me to get back in the cage one last time.

You haven’t fought in a year. Do you have fights scheduled in the future?

I actually officially retired a couple of months ago. I am teaching now at Extreme Combat and Fitness in Tulsa and look forward to helping others achieve their goals in MMA.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

I am a full-time father and when that's not taking up my time I like to play Call of Duty MW2!!!

You have fought for a pretty big MMA promotion, HOOKnSHOOT. What was it like fighting for them back in the early 2000’s?

It was a great time!!!! I met a lot of great guys and a lot of guys that would go on to fight in the UFC. HooknShoot is pretty much the only reason I am known anywhere. Anyone who was ever there cannot forget the Lucky Lady or Jeff Osbourne staring at my wangbone in my silver pants. No homo on my part.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

Bob Voss for being my first sponsor and helping me out when nobody else did. My brother-in-law Paul Day for helping me get my gear in the early days. I would also like to thank Cyco Submissions and Submission Soldiers. Jeff and Miguel with HooknShoot for making me a demi-legend. Aaron Riley for kicking my ass for 20 minutes and producing the highlight fight of my career. Mikey Burnett, and all the original Tulsa Lion's Den's guys. Troy Waugh for being my most reliable training partner ever. Beau "One Man Army" Taylor for helping me move onto bigger things after fighting. And every friend I have ever made in this sport.

MMA Fighter Anthony "The Recipe" Lapsley

Anthony Lapsley is a mixed martial arts veteran who has fought for promotions like King of the Cage, Bellator, UWC, and others. He was also part of the the famous double knockout in a fight.


How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

I started about 4 years ago. I met Cobra Rhodes (16X world champion Arm wrestler) at a bar. He’s good friends with Gary Goodrich and was following the sport all the time. After exchanging info and past achievements, we decided it was something I wanted to get into.

You have fought the likes of Mike Guymon and Drew Fickett. To this date, who has been your toughest opponent?

The hardest opponent I fought was Tyler Stinson. He was a tough as shit!!!

Before you started training and competing in mixed martial arts, did you have any martial arts experience?

Nope. I was just a high school state champion wrestler. Nothing before or after that except fighting

More than 2/3rd of your victories have come from submissions, do you prefer to take your opponents to the ground right away or do you like to stand and bang?

I don’t know, I can stand and bang, but I usually just end up taking it to the ground and pounding the guy or submitting these cats. I play it how it goes but I would rather hit the ground. I’m trying to stay pretty!!

You are part of the infamous mma double knockout fight. What was going on in your mind after both you guys go down?

All I thought was, “PLEASE don’t come hit me”. I didn’t know how I got down there, but knew to start kicking to prevent him from doing anymore damage.

You got redemption at Aaron Wetherspoon a few months later. This time you were able to defeat him by submission. What was it like to actually defeat him without any controversies?

I was relieved. I was also excited and pretty happy because I was champion.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

I like playing PS3, chilling with my family and children.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I would to thank God, because none of this would be possible. My haters, they are very important to my success. I also thank my children, my parents, My Dip Dip for sticking with me through all of this. Alan Buckley, Finis Tatum, Nick Craig, Mark Lemrick, BJ Hedger, Chas Bowling, Bubba McDaniel, Six Figures, LimeLite Fusion drink, Sponsored Fan Family and all the rest of my friends, fans, and family.

MMA Fighter Jimy Hettes Interview

Jimy Hettes is only twenty three years old, but has already made a splash in the mixed martial arts world. He is currently an undefeated fighter with all his wins coming in the first round. We were able to get an interview with him.


How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

Well, I was wrestling when i was young and I started boxing at fourteen years old. At the age of sixteen, I started doing jiu-jitsu and really became obsessed. After doing a few tournaments, when I was eighteen years old, I decided to give mixed martial arts a shot. I really liked how real the fighting was, and it was as close to a real confrontation as you can legally get.

What was it like fighting Binky Jones, a veteran of mixed martial arts, and being able to submit him in just less than 30 seconds?

It was a great feeling to say the least. I grew up watching his fights. So, it was a great opportunity for me to fight him in such a nice event as Shogun. Having that opportunity, I knew I couldn’t waste it or let my emotions get in the way of what I really had to do.

All your wins have come by the way of submission. It’s safe to say that you are mostly comfortable on the ground. What was your favorite submission you were able to lock in during your fights?

Yea, submissions have always come pretty natural to me, but I have really been working on my judo and boxing relentlessly with real good results. Don't get me wrong, I really appreciative all my submissions but my favorite one thus far has been the Achilles lock against a good opponent in Jay Haas. I like to use leg locks a lot in practice. It was good to have the opportunity to throw one when it counted.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

MMA takes up a lot of my time. In my free time, I like doing relaxing activities such as walking my dog (Nahla), playing video games, and doing anything outdoors. They are all great ways to let my body heal up and stay busy at the same time.

What is your ultimate goal you want to achieve as a mixed martial artist?

I really don’t have a goal when it comes to MMA. It’s not something Ii do for any purpose. The martial arts are something I simply can't see myself living without. I can see myself being seventy years old and still doing judo or bjj. So MMA is just a reflection on how I live my life.

None of your fights have gone past the first round. Do you always try to finish your opponent as quick as possible?

The way I was taught jiu jitsu is to always go for the finish. When I get in the fight, there is no hesitation when I see an opportunity; I go for it. I have simply been fortunate to have those opportunities.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

Without my coaches it wouldn't be possible. Thanks to all the guys at Swoyersville Submission Wrestling, Gracie NEPA, and Worldclass Boxing. Thanks to all my sponsors who help me eat every day, mma melee, Free Hurt, Tattoo Fightwear, Submission Effects, Bamf Mouthguards, Assassins Industry, Policy Collection, and dr. James Jiunta.

MMA Fighter Bubba McDaniel Interview

Bubba McDaniels has fought all over the country against tough opponents against the likes of Gerald Harris and others. Bubba McDaniels opens up during this interview about his perspective of mixed martial arts and how MMA is more than just fighting.


How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

I got into MMA in Sept. of 04’; I started training at the local youth opportunities center on the east side of town in Wichita Falls, Texas. I showed up and started getting my butt thoroughly kicked daily because they were a hardened group of guys who DID NOT welcome outsiders. Once I proved to them that I was not just some guy that wanted to run around in a fight shirt and claim to be a fighter they started to actually train me. I was 21 years old at the time and had fought a couple of toughman contests because I thought I was a tough guy by doing that, but I was DEAD wrong!

Have you competed in any other forms of martial arts competitions besides mixed martial arts fights?

I have competed in 2 grappling tournaments. The first one I competed in, I went 0-2. In the second grappling tournament, I went 2-0. Besides the two grappling tournaments, I only competed in toughman contests. MMA has been about the actual fight for me. I want to learn everything in a way to be able to string it together with the rest of my fight game.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

FREE TIME? WHAT FREE TIME? Ask anyone who trains with me now or anyone who has ever trained with me. I eat, sleep and breathe MMA; its my life. I would guess I would say I like to go watch movies or listen to music that I can sing along to. I suck at singing, but I still love to do it. Sometimes I get a call to play softball or go play golf. I enjoy both of those things in my free time, but it is very few and far between.

When is your next scheduled bout and how are you preparing for it?

I just fought twice recently within 3 weeks of each other, so now I am looking for the right fight, for the right money, in the right organization. I feel like I have paid my dues and have proven that I’m no push over for anyone. I want someone to put into me what I put into this sport. As for my training, I never stop training and staying in shape, I never know when that one call will come in which will put me on the map.

You have fought many great fighters like Gerald Harris, Kala Hose, Alexander Shlemenko, and others. Who has been the toughest opponent you have faced so far in your career?

What makes one fight tougher than another? I have had many fights that have presented new problems to face that have given me a fit in the cage, but have forged me into the fighter I am currently. My first amateur MMA fight showed me a new level of fear that just to be in a cage against another man (Joey Spencer). My second amateur MMA fight showed me what REAL fatigue was in a fight and the courage to keep pushing for a win. Also, the ability to fight off a choke that almost ended the fight before it started (Toby Duarte). My second pro fight showed me humility. When you realize that you are not ready for the big leagues and you got more stuff to work on. My fight against Gerald Harris showed me that even when you think that you’re doing well and you think you will be fine, you need to be most cautious because it IS a fight and it can shift on a dime. Alexander Shlemenko showed me that even when someone is hurt; it doesn’t mean that they have lost their drive to fight hard at all costs to win. I needed to finish when the opportunity arose instead of thinking that it will present itself again. There are a lot more lessons I have learned the hard way but that would have taken days to write.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

Anyone in my life that has helped me train or helped me stay in this sport and supported me knows who they are. They know they are precious to me and that’s all that matters. Well, I have had one guy put an actual money investment into me. He knows who he is too and knows he has done more than any one man should. He gave me a roof over my head, be able to train and the way how I want to train.

If any other "sponsors" want to put some REAL time and money into me, I’ll prove to you that I’m PLENTY worth the investment.

MMA Fighter Len Bentley Interview

Len Bentley is a prospect who has fought all over the United States and Canada. He is a gifted fighter who has fought for Strikeforce and M-1 Global. We were able to do an interview with this unique fighter.

You fought on the first Strikeforce Challengers card and beat Marques Daniels. Has Strikeforce been in contact with you about scheduling you for a second fight in their Challengers series?

we tried to get on this last Strikeforce show, but they used all amateurs for the under card. So, I was not able to get on that card, but then M-1 Global called.

How does it feel to be fighting in your second major promotion, M-1 Global’s 170 tournament?

I’m extremely excited to fight for M-1 Global. I have always wanted to fight in other countries besides just Canada. I know if I win the tournament, I will have those opportunities. I love the pressure of being able to compete at a high level.

What do you know about your opponent, Colin Schrader, and will you be watching his previous fights?

I looked Colin up and there was not much about him. He does not really have a long fighting background from what I could find. He has only had 4 MMA fights combined between amateur and pro. He seems like a game opponent and I’m not going to take him lightly. He has never fought a fight on my caliber so we will see what happens.

Besides mixed martial arts, what other hobbies do you like to do on your free time?

Some of my hobbies include watching movies. When I’m not training, I love to spend time in the theaters. I also spend a lot of time traveling and cross training with other camps in the northwest.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

First, I’d like to thank M-1 Global for this opportunity. Dennis Hallman, Brad Blackburn and all my training partners at Victory Athletics. Brad Swartz, Ali Crosby at Vision Quest Sports and Fitness. Carlos Hernandez and Todd Para at Next Level Boxing.

MMA Fighter Joe Garcia Interview

Joe Garcia is a young and upcoming mixed martial arts fighter trying to make a name for himself. He definitely has what it takes to make it big in the mma world. We were able to sit down with Joe and conduct a 1 on 1 interview.


How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

About three years ago my buddy and I, Chris Kleman, (who now is the 185 champ in our league) we’re talking about the growing popularity of the UFC and how we wanted to give it a shot. He had been a standout wrestler his whole life and I was a boxer, so we figured we had a pretty legitimate chance. So, I began training Brazilian Jiu jitsu at one of Saulo Ribeiros academies. At age of 17, I hooked up with Pro fighter, Rick Fitch, who set up my first fight.

What gym do you train out of?

I train out of Elite Sports academy in Tiffin, OH. We have some of the best athletes around and our training regimen is enough to break someone both physically and mentally. We put ourselves through the ringer on a daily basis and we have about ten Title belts at our academy to show for it.

What is your ultimate goal you want to achieve as a mixed martial artist?

I want to be the best, period. I want to one day be known as one of the best pound for pound fighters of all time. More importantly I want to make enough money so that my mom can quit her job. I would like to be able to take care of my mother, as well as the rest of my family. My family and I have never had it easy growing up, ever. One day, not only do I want to give my mother a great life, but to also repay her for all the stress I have put on her as a teen. I believe there are people, who are great at fighting, and there are great fighters, and I want to be a great fighter. I want to use my skills in the cage to put myself in a position to do good things as a human being.

What is the hardest part of the mma lifestyle that people do not know about?

The MMA lifestyle, as a whole, is something you have to be physically and mentally ready for and it requires a lot of adaptation. It means no wild parties, no drugs or alcohol; You really don’t have time for a big social life if you train all day, every day. Not to mention the bloody noses, black eyes, hyper extensions, twisted ankles and boxing fractures. I put myself through physical and mental torture long before I dance under those lights, and I don’t think just anyone could walk a mile in those shoes. Everyone wants to be the next Anderson Silva or Georges St. Pierre. They want to wear the Tapout shirts and boast and get the girls, but 99% of them don’t have what it takes to put in the time. I wish they would show more on television about what we put ourselves through in order to get ready for a fight. It’s not easy.

You have traveled all over the Midwest area. Where do you like to travel the most or is it strictly business with you?

I think my favorite place to fight is in Tiffin. We always get a ton of people that show up, plus I’m surrounded by fans and people that I know. The crowd gets so loud and I love to put on a show for them.

Do you have any upcoming fights scheduled and what are you doing to prepare for them?

Yes, my next fight is August 14th, which is two weeks from this Saturday. I’m competing for Havoc Extreme Cagefighting and it will be against Brandon "diesel" Adams. I have been training 5+ hours per day and working on every aspect of the game as well. I spar, train BJJ, and train wrestling every day. I also do power lifting and circuits. Brandon Adams likes to come out with guns blazing, so I have been telling my sparring partners to come right at me during training and to be ready for his explosiveness.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I would like to thank God, because without him, none of this would be possible and he has given me so many blessings in my life. I would also like to thank my mother for being the greatest mother ever, as well as my sister for being so supportive, and my trainer Rick Fitch. And last, but not least, all my family, fans, and training partners. No Color Line Clothing cannot be forgotten as it has supported me from the very beginning.

MMA Fighter Will Brooks Interview

Will Brooks is a rising MMA fighter training out of MTC.

How and when did you get into mixed martial arts?

Before I started training I was actually in college playing football at Harper in Palatine, IL in 2007. During that time, I actually suffered a knee injury that kept me out of football and I felt like I wasn’t doing anything with myself. I was watching the T.U.F TV and that was the first time I ever saw anything that had to do with the UFC and I fell in love with it and my buddy actually told me about a gym that he was training at which was MTC. I trained off and on during 2007 and then I stopped for a couple of years because I wanted to focus on college and trying to play football again. Things didn’t work out how I wanted them to and during that time all I could think about was getting back into the gym. 2009 rolled around and one day I finally just decided that I was going to commit to training and making it to the big show and so here I am training as hard as possible and following my gym at MTC.


What was the worst injury you ever sustained from training in the sport?

-Well actually I’ve been really lucky so far; during all the training I haven’t suffered any really bad injuries. I have had small injuries but nothing I can’t train through.


How would you describe your fighting style?

Right now I’m not really sure. The sport is so strategic you have to be able to adapt and change game plans depending on who you’re sparring with or fighting. If I just had to say though I would say that I’m more of a counter fighter. I like to stand in the pocket and slip punches and throw fast combination kind of like BJ Penn.


When is your next fight and how will you be preparing for it?

My next fight is in Addison, IL on April 24th. I’ll be doing what I do every day training as hard as possible with some of the best trainers and fighters in the Midwest.


People see how the best UFC fighters live, driving expensive cars and living in mansions. These fighters only represent 1% of all fighters. What is the lifestyle of an MMA fighter like who hasn’t yet made it to and succeeded in the UFC?

Man, it’s tough. Don’t get me wrong I know it’s still tough for those guys who have made it but for guys who haven’t it’s a battle to stay focused. Sometimes because we all set goals and people have the tendency to get a little impatient in the process to make it to the big show where we all want to be. Sometimes it’s the everyday grind that starts to wear you down. Some guys work regular jobs and then come to train after. Other guys have to work and take care of a family and then come train so it’s tough for guys who haven’t made it yet, but this is the life that we chose when we decided to take this journey so we battle through. That’s why it’s good to get in a gym where everyone can stick together.

MMA Fighter Dave "Pee Wee" Herman Interview

Dave "Pee Wee" Herman is a professional MMA fighter. He has fought for several promotions including EliteXC, Sengoku, Bellator and is currently 16-1.

It is pretty ironic that your nickname is “Pee Wee” considering that you are 6’5” and 240 lbs. Is there a story behind your nickname?

Most MMA fighters all have the same kind of nickname. First name, look how much of a bad ass I am, last name. Originally I did not want a nickname but one day people were messing around and throwing out some really stupid ones and I was going along with it and suggested that. It stuck and I've been Pee We ever since.

There are rumors that you are currently signed to a deal with Shine Fights. Did they sign you exclusively or are you still allowed to compete in other promotions?

I am not currently signed with Shine Fights. I would be, but I am having some trouble with Bellator at the moment. They failed to follow through with several promises made to me and breached our contract. I don't know how long it will take to get it resolved. However, I am still signed with Sengoku in Japan.

Not too many MMA fighters get the opportunity to fight in Japan. What is the biggest difference between fighting in front of a Japanese crowd and an American crowd?

In Japan the audience is very respectful no matter what. They understand that both people trained very hard for the fight and respect that even if the fight is what would be considered boring in America. They also know a lot more about submissions and ground game and enjoy watching them in fights. In America, it seems like everyone just wants to see a knockout. In Japan you will never hear anyone boo a fight or a fighter which is common here in the US.

Can you briefly describe a typical training day you go through preparing for a fight?

Lately my typical training day has been starting at 10:30 AM. I do jiu jitsu for at least an hour, sometimes it will take two. At 7:30 PM I work on my striking for an hour and a half. If I have a fight coming up I will add in an extra practice in the middle of the day.

What was it like fighting a legend like Don Fyre?

I enjoyed meeting Don Frye. He is a great guy and fun to be around, and he is always saying hilarious stuff. From a fighting stand point the opponents are all the same from my perspective; it doesn't really matter who I'm going up against.

Do you have anyone to thank (coaches, sponsors, family)?

I would like to thank my trainer Ed Clay and my gym Nashville MMA.

UFC Fighter Charlie Brenneman Interview

Charlie Brenneman is making his UFC Debut on March 31, 2010 on the UFC Fight Night: Florian vs Gomi.

Not many people know that you won Season 1 of Pros vs Joes on MTV2. Can you describe your experience on that show playing against other athletes?

P v J was an awesome experience. The pros were very cool to us, and the competitions were super intense. There was no acting going on; it was very real.

What was going through head the moment the UFC called and told you that they wanted to sign you to a multi-deal contract?

It was the realization of a dream. There is nothing I wanted more in life than to land that contract. It is the culmination of 20 years of hard work in wrestling and fighting.

We can only assume that you are training harder then ever before for your fight against Jason High coming up in a few weeks. Can you briefly describe your training schedule for us?

As I write this, I am in between training sessions. I normally do two-a-days, which could consist of Brazilian Jui Jitsu, wrestling, striking, strength and conditioning, or cardio. I've come to a nice mix of everything in order to prime my body.

You fought primarily on the east coast and your UFC debut will be in North Carolina. Do you think you will have the crowd support entering the cage?

I've been very lucky to have a very loyal fan base. I know for a fact I'll have close to 75 Spaniard fans at the event, and I'm hoping to get more. However, once the fight starts, my mind and body work as one, and outside distractions do not effect me.

WEC Fighter Courtney Buck Interview

Courtney Buck is a featherweight fighter who is currently fighting in the WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting). We had the opportunity to talk with Courtney and this is what he had to say.

How did you get into the sport of mixed martial arts?

I got into the sport because I love competition, especially one on one competition. Hand-to-hand combat is the most ancient competition known to man and I wanted to be a part of it.

Most featherweights stand between 5’5” and 5'7”. What kind of advantage do you have standing at 5’10”?

It's still rather weird to me that I'm considered a big man as far as height goes because I originally fought at 155 and I was a tiny guy at that weight class but I'm also really lean so it kind of evens itself out. My reach and my ability to keep distance will always be my advantage, I just have to be patient enough to capitalize on that aspect of my game.

On average, it usually takes most MMA fighters 2-4 years to make it into a premiere fighting organization like the UFC or the WEC. It took you only one year to be signed to a WEC contract after turning pro. How do you mentally prepare yourself fighting in front of thousands of people in the WEC?

It's still rather surreal to me that I've made it to the WEC this soon. I've only trained a few months longer than I've actually fought. I started training in March of 2008 and my first fight was in October of 2008 with no previous background in any martial art nor wrestling at all, so I have to learn many things on the fly. I was learning things the other guys already had programmed into their DNA at this point, but it also made me easy to coach and train. To me, it never mattered how many people watched my fights. I've done exhibitions in front of 30 people or so and fought in front of about 800 on the local scene in Minnesota. Mentally, I remind myself that the cheers, jeers, screams and madness will not bring me a win, so the only people I try to hear are my corner men when I'm in that cage.

The Brandon Visher fight didn't turn out the way you would have liked. What went wrong in that fight and what do you think you could have done differently?

Oh man, the Visher fight was a heartbreaker. That was the first time I'd ever been stopped, but I didn't feel like I was over matched. I've watched that tape many times and I've realized how rushed and impatient I was in that fight. I was able to dictate the pace but I didn't take advantage of my reach. I caught him early and ran into him, but didn't use good technique on the ground. In hindsight, if I had been patient and sat back I think I could have earned the "W", but that fight also taught me so much. It's weird how much wisdom can be gained in four minutes and forty-five seconds.

Your fight with Fredson Paixao is tonight in Columbus, Ohio. Can you describe the training schedule you have endured to prepare yourself for this fight?

For this fight I trained short sessions in the early mornings and afternoons and full sessions at night working on ground defense and different striking combinations focusing on using my body to gain the biggest advantage possible. I had three weeks notice for the fight so I was able to put together a solid camp.

Is there anyone you would like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I would love to thank my wife who has really allowed me to let it all hang out and chase this goal, all my friends and family in Burnsville, MN, my trainers Mike, Jeremy, and Ryan, all the hardworking guys and gals from Minnesota Top Team, Missy Germain and everyone at Bitten and Bound. And thank you, chief (The Buried Athlete), for even thinking I was worth your time. It means a lot.

Ian Rammel Interview MMA Fighter

How did you first start training in mixed martial arts and how long ago did you start?

Well I just finished my last year of competitive wrestling at Heidelberg University and I was bored with not competing. I saw a flyer for a local MMA show and gave the promoter, Rick Fitch, a call about training. Since the first time I trained I've been hooked on it ever since and that was a good year and a half ago.

You just turned professional and have a fight coming up in Cincinnati. What have you done to prepare yourself for this fight?

I really haven't changed much since I've gone pro. Ive always tried to train with a fast pace and high intensity. I have a pretty good gym that I train out of and a lot of good guys to push me.

What do you think is the biggest difference you expect to face moving from amateur to professional?

The biggest difference that I expect is the level of intensity. I look for a faster paced fight than those of my amateur fights.

What are some of your goals you wish to achieve in mixed martial arts?

My ultimate goal is to make it to the big show and be the best of the best in the UFC. I've always thought, "what's the point in competing if you don't aspire to be the best?" One day I want to be able to say my favorite quote from my favorite comic book character, Wolverine: "I'm the best at what I do, but what I do isn't very nice."

As an amateur, you were 7-1. Your last two fights, you won the Havoc Extreme Cage Fighting Maximum Force Welterweight Championship Belt and the Ohio Cage Combat Welterweight Championship Belt. Do you think winning those belts will give you a boost of confidence stepping into the cage against your next opponent, Tony Parker?

Confidence. That's something I always try to keep. I try going into every fight knowing that I'm walking out of that cage looking the same way I walked in. Confidence is about 50 percent of this sport. The other 50 is skill, in my opinion.

Is there anyone you want to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I would like to thank Elite Sports Academy in Tiffin, Ohio, my trainer Rick Fitch, all my sparring partners, my friends and family for their support, and of course the fans.

Carson Beebe MMA Interview

Before you started training in mixed martial arts, were you involved in other forms of martial arts?

Yes, I have been wrestling pretty much my whole life. I started when I was 4 yrs old.

How long did you train for before entering the cage for your first amateur fight?

I have been training MMA for quite some time. I was never able to fight in the cage because I was wrestling in college and it is against NCAA rules.

Your first professional fight is coming up really soon. What have you done to prepare yourself for this fight?

Not much has changed in training for my first pro fight. I go to war with the guys at Gilbert Grappling every night. I have added one element, which is a pretty tough strength and conditioning program at Vision Quest athletics in La Grange.

I assume that you enjoy playing other sports like football, basketball, etc. How do you compare other sports to mixed martial arts?

Training for wrestling is similar to fighting but I don't think anything can compare to the stress, nervousness and adrenaline of stepping into a cage with another trained warrior with nothing but bad intentions.

Your older brother, Chase Beebe, is a pretty well-known MMA fighter who has fought all over the world including WEC, KOTC, Dream, and other promotions. Do you think there is extra pressure on you to succeed because of the Beebe name?

I have dealt with the pressure of my older brothers' successes my whole life, so I am pretty used to it. The fact that Chase has been so successful has definitely opened up some doors for me in the sport, and I am looking forward to following in his footsteps.

Do you have anyone you'd like to thank (coaches, family, sponsors)?

I have a lot of people to thank. All the guys at Gilbert Grappling for pushing me beyond my limits every day, Steve Mologousis who is my trainer at Vision Quest Athletics, my brother Chase for being a great mentor and training partner, and lastly, my family for their unwavering support.