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FIGHTING WORDS: TECIA TORRES

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Tecia “The Tiny Tornado” Torres looks to install herself as a force to be reckoned with when she returns to the Invicta FC cage on July 13th at Invicta FC 6.

Asking for and receiving a bout with fellow undefeated prospect Rose Namajunas, Torres wants to show she is the future of a deep and competitive Strawweight division. Training out of the vaunted American Top Team in Florida, Torres will attempt to take the next step towards the top of the division on July 13th.

Corey Smith: You first entered into martial arts via kickboxing at a very young age. How did that come about? How long did you stick exclusively with kickboxing?

Tecia Torres: My mom placed me in karate when I was 5 and I loved it, so I stayed until college. I wanted something more and found Muay Thai in 2008. About 8 months after I began I was introduced to BJJ and quickly started competing in tournaments. After I got my blue belt and had about 15 ammy fights, I decided I would try MMA in September 2011. I continued to fight both MMA and kickboxing. By the time Invicta called me to make my pro debut in October 2012, I already had 27 total ammy fights. I was ready!

CS: Your first exposure to MMA was when it was made popular by EliteXC and Strikeforce. At that point did you have much submission or grappling experience? How did you go about making the transition to MMA?

TT: By the time I stepped into the cage for the first time I was already a blue belt, so I was comfortable when the fight ended up on the ground. The transition was very smooth. I enjoyed MMA very much, so that it became my main focus.

CS: After a perfect 7-0 record as an amateur, you have gone pro and won your first two fights. What grade would you give your career and progress so far?

TT: I believe thus far in my martial arts journey I have taken all the right steps at the right times. Never rushing it, always looking to improve and go from there. A solid “A” grade for my determination, talent, and will to succeed.

CS: American Top Team is one of the largest and most successful camps in Mixed Martial Arts. How do you benefit from working with such a camp?

TT: ATT is so widely diverse. We have many different talented people from all over the world at our gym. I benefit from a variety of teaching skills and diverse looks into the fighting world. There are fighters of all weight classes and various elite promotions all the time, so I’m never far away from talented people or people who can help me.

CS: Jessica Aquilar, considered to be among the best female athletes currently fighting, trains out of ATT. What type of non-physical advice does she give you?

TT: In the gym, it’s a time and place to be professional. I go to learn, train, and put work in. Leave everything and anything else outside the door when I walk in.

CS: You will be making your third appearance for Invicta on July 13th. How has your experience with the company been like so far? What types of things do they do to make the whole process run as smoothly as possible?

TT: Janet, Shannon, and everyone behind the Invicta banner are all superb and second to none. My experience thus far has been amazing. I am honored to fight for such an elite, well run and organized promotion. Invicta is great to everyone; fans and fighters alike.

TT: From the moment we arrive everything is set up for us, so our focus is making weight and fight night. I love how we have a set schedule with things to do. Every aspect has been taken care of… It’s the little things that make us feel special. Having someone to braid our hair, welcoming us with a gift package, shuttle bus, nice hotel, access to sauna, lists goes on and on. Invicta in one word = Awesome!

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 6 is Rose Namajunas, someone who is quickly becoming a fan favorite. How much can a crowd reaction sway your performance?

TT: I know that Rose is very well known and will have quite a crowd at the time of our fight. The crowd can only make me stronger. Whether they are rooting for or against me, I will push on and fight my fight.

CS: You spoke about how Rose was the opponent that you wanted the most. Why was that? How do you expect the fight to go?

TT: Rose vs me is the most logical fight. The fans wanted it, and so did I. We both are basically the young guns and future of Invicta. We are young, talented, and undefeated.

TT: We made our professional debuts with Invicta. It’s our homebase. I wanted it, or more so, knew the fight was coming. Rose and I make for an exciting matchup. I expect it to go the distance, and I foresee us both being each others biggest test to date.

CS: The 115lb division is one of the deepest divisions in Invicta. What are your thoughts overall on the division and your place in it?

TT: The division as a whole is freakishly talented from the bottom up. I see the belt-holder changing many times over the next few title defenses. I believe I am one of the up and comers to watch out for and that a win over Rose would definitely set the pace for what is to come from me in the division.

CS: On fight night, what is your mood like? Do you prefer to be left alone to focus? Or do you like to distract yourself in some way?

TT: Fight night I go into Princess mode. I like things a certain way. I like to be talkative, listen to my music, laugh with my corners, and be happy. I walk up to the cage smiling, in no way being disrespectful, but because I am truly happy to be there in that moment.

TT: Not many people get to experience what we do. Nor will they ever understand the feelings you get just minutes or seconds before you step in front of someone knowing they want the very same thing you want and you’ve come to take it away.

CS: Outside of the cage, what types of activities do you enjoy? What helps you to mentally unwind?

TT: I like the normal simple stuff. Being with my good friends, going to the beach, movies, and going out to eat.

CS: You also spoke about wanting to use your education after your fighting career is over. What type of education is that? And how would you want to use it?

TT: I have a Bachelors degree; double majoring in criminal justice and sociology. I graduated college in Aug 2010. I would like to work for a non-profit when I decide to slow things down one day.

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

TT: I would like to thank God for giving me the strength and ability to wake up every day and do what I love.

TT: My friends, fans, and family for all their unconditional love and support. My teammates and coaches for pushing me and teaching me everything I know.

TT:  My sponsors for believing in my talents. American Top Team, Brawl and Maul, Dawgs Forever, Forever Dawgs, Awakening Female Fighters, Slept, Babes of MMA, and Klench Mouthguards.

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FIGHTING WORDS: ROSE NAMAJUNAS

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Young gun Rose Namajunas  is not one for wasting time, and she immediately returns to the Invicta FC cage on July 13th after a 12 second flying armbar win at Invicta FC 5 in April.

Combating Namajunas on July 13th will be fellow 2-0 prospect, Tecia Torres in an ever deepening Strawweight division. With both athletes having a strong and aggressive style, the fans should witness a future contender emerge from what should be an all-out battle.

Corey Smith: On July 13th at Invicta FC 6, you will be making both your third Invicta appearance, and your third overall MMA match. How does it feel to be consistently asked back to fight for Invicta?

Rose Namajunas: I really appreciate the back to back fights Invicta has been giving me. It lets me know that I’m doing a good job. It’s also a blessing because I have goals to reach.  Even though I am one of the younger fighters, time is precious and I’m not going to waste it.

CS: Your win at Invicta FC 5 was easily one of the most exciting of the card, a flying arm bar twelve seconds into the first round. What emotions were running through your mind after that win?

RN: For me to pull of an armbar in 12 seconds against a tough opponent was very difficult for me to comprehend at first. I had gone through so much hardship in the lead up before the fight that I could of very easily have pulled out. I couldn’t do that to Kathina because I knew she would have done the same and show up regardless.  What got me through that moment was keeping a strong mind. So after it was over all my emotions were able to come out. It was a huge release.

CS:  Is there a small part of you that wishes that the fight had lasted longer as a showcase for your skills?

RN: No if it could end in 5 seconds with just one punch thrown like my girl Veronica Rothenhausler that would be ideal!

CS: How do you feel like your skills and your career are progressing at this point?

RN: This is only the beginning.  People have yet to see the tricks I have up my sleeve and I am only getting better! I know what I’m capable of; I just have to make sure that I perform on fight night!

CS: With training camp injuries occurring on a regular basis in MMA, how do you manage to train full bore but also minimize injuries?

RN: Injuries are going to happen and there’s not much you can do about it unless you lighten up training and I don’t do that.  Two weeks out before the last fight I was in the ER because I thought my ankle was broken. Luckily it was just a bad sprain and I was able to hide it and pull through and get my job done.

CS: Your opponent on July 13th, Tecia Torres, also sports an undefeated record. She has said you were the opponent she wanted.  How familiar are you with Tecia? What are you expecting from the bout?

RN: I’ve known about Tecia since I was an amateur. She’s the toughest opponent to date.  I go into every fight expecting Tyson. I don’t think too much about what my opponent will do because what I always plan to do is so ferocious that there won’t be an opportunity for someone to implement their game plan.

CS: What type of opponent do you prefer to face in the cage?

RN: I don’t have a preference.  Any opponent will do.

CS: After one of your fights, what do you want the fans to remember about you?

RN: My passion. I want people to be able to see the heart and soul I put in everything.

CS: You spoke in our previous interview about how you had recently begun using sensory deprivation floats. For those that aren’t aware of what those are, what do they do and what are their benefits?

RN: It’s a dark quiet tank filled with Epsom salt water so that you float.  It’s an environment that allows you to eliminate all worldly and societal distractions so that it’s nothing but you and your thoughts. It’s great for meditation, visualization, mental health. And it also has endless physical health benefits because your muscles and bones get a break from gravity weighing you down and soaking in Epsom salt not only heals injuries but is detoxifying and cleansing for the body.

CS: Any interview you do seems to reveal that you are well versed in many topics. From Lithuanian history to animals and farming. Do you think that it is important to be a student of many subjects?

RN: I think it is very important.  Being a MMA fighter helps to be well rounded and I think that applies to life as well. Da Vinci was not remembered because he was good at just one thing but because he was a Renaissance man! Learning has always been a passion of mine regardless of the topic. “The more you know, the more you grow!”

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

RN: Pat Barry, my family, Greg Nelson, The Academy, Trevor Wittman, Jake Ramos, Grudge Training Center, Horsepower SC, Brian Butler, Cage Potato MMA, Alienware, Fear the Fighter, Invicta, and all the loyal fans that keep supporting through thick and thin.

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FIGHTING WORDS: EMILY KAGAN

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World traveler Emily Kagan makes a stop in the Invicta FC cage on July 13th at Invicta FC 6, when she looks to get back on the winning trail against Ashley Cummins.

Both Cummins and Kagan are looking to rebound from their first career losses, and Kagan is motivated to entertain the fans with her hard nosed style. Training out of Jackson’s MMA, Kagan will draw on the experience and tutelage of her massive team in order to stand with her hand raised on July 13th.

Corey Smith: Your first foray into martial arts began with American Jiu Jitsu at the age of eighteen. How did that come about? What are the major differences between American and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Emily Kagan: For as long as I can remember, I had always wanted to get involved in martial arts.  I never felt that the opportunity was there until I went to college, where we had a Jujitsu “club”.  I immediately signed up and committed myself to training under the AJA for the next four years.  I remember spending the first year working on falling, rolling, off-balancing, and basic movement.  As “boring” as it seemed to an 18-year old, I had faith in my instructor, and knew that if I made it through the first year with mental discipline, I would eventually progress.  I am so thankful I did!

CS: Shortly after receiving your black belt in AJJ, you moved to Israel. What was the country like in general? And what was the MMA community like in Israel?

EK: I love Israel!  It is a beautiful and passionate country!  I lived and trained there as a new citizen for 3 years.  At the time, MMA felt like something people only talked about.  There were so many martial arts dojos though!  Krav Maga, Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, No-Gi grappling, and “Modern” Jujitsu!  Just as I was leaving to return to the US, a few martial artists, Ido Pariente and Eran Bert, started to emphasize MMA specific training in their dojos near the Tel Aviv area.

CS: After moving back to the United States, how did your MMA career progress? Where were you training at this point?

EK: Upon returning to the US, I went to live near my family in Maine and joined Team Irish in Bangor, ME under the coaching of Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis, as well as Garth Krane.

CS: At the end of 2009, you moved out to New Mexico and joined the world renowned Jacksons/Winklejohn fight team. What prompted that decision? How was your initial integration into the team?

EK: Through 2009, I had been training with Team Irish while working as a wilderness guide with at-risk youth in New Hampshire.  I had been training in martial arts for years, but had never considered fighting until my students at work began inquiring as to why I had never desired a professional MMA career.  And so I began to ask myself that very same question, while also going through a transitional time in my life- feeling a need for change.

EK: I had told Marcus that I was not ready to be back in Maine (which is where his MMA gym is located), and so he recommended that I make some inquiries to Greg Jackson’s gym, where female fighters received support.  I contacted the gym manager and Julie Kedzie, and flew out for a trial week with the understanding that I would move there if they wanted me on board.  Two months later, I packed my car and drove across country to join this elite team, and I have been here ever since!

CS: The list of female fighters at Jackson’s is lengthy, including Invicta Atomweight Champion Michelle Waterson, along with Invicta FC Commentator and UFC athlete Julie Kedzie. What does that type of talent do to prepare you for your work inside the cage?

EK: Being around other talented women who are pursuing the same goals provides a unique and tremendous sense of camaraderie and support that is impossible to achieve in an all-male environment.

EK: Women are different from men in many ways, and that does not change just because we are athletes in what once was a male-dominated sport.  It is amazing to have both male and female athletes to share our sport and experiences with.

CS: With that many female athletes available, how often do you still train with male athletes? Is there any discipline in particular that you would prefer a male athlete to train with?

EK: I am grateful for both my male and female teammates, and am thankful for all their different talents and skill levels… they each bring something different to the table, and the variety and availability of experiences accessible to me is rare.

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 6 on July 13th, Ashley Cummins, brings a similar level of experience with her into the cage. How familiar are you with Ashley? What are you expecting out of the bout?

EK: I am excited to fight Ashley.  I have watched some of her videos and she is clearly very passionate and driven to excel as a fighter as well, which will always lead to a very entertaining fight for audiences.  There is no doubt it will be a war.

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

EK: Fortunately, I have a variety of teammates, as well as Coach Jackson and Winkeljohn, coaching me during my training and sparring sessions, so I am used to hearing more than one.  Also, I would not say that there is a “type of feedback I like to receive”, since I trust them all 100% and always feel good about their coaching and feedback.

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

EK: There are always MMA fights happening!  But I hate to miss an opportunity to support other women in the sport, and I do my best to watch my teammates fight as well.

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

EK: Outside of fight training, I love the outdoors, but also find respite in good non-fiction books and conversations with family and friends.  However, since many of my loved ones are in different time zones, I will either slip away into a movie, or find more active recovery in my yoga practice.

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

EK: I would like to thank my entire Team Jackson/Winkeljohn, with special thanks to both head coaches, Greg and Mike.  Also, my additional striking coach, Mike Valle, as well as teammates Julie Kedzie and Joey Villasenor, who have been in my corner.

EK: My earlier Team Irish with Marcus Davis and Garth Krane.

EK: My amazingly supportive family and friends all over the world.

EK: My sponsors – Kara Worley, Adam Elcewicz, Akimma, Marshall Mouthguards, Hot Yoga Downtown ABQ, Grassroots Yoga ABQ, Victory Unltd., and Title Shot.

EK:  I would also like to thank Sam Wilson, Invicta FC, and all of my previous opponents for their talent and sports’woman’ship!!!

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FIGHTING WORDS: VERONICA ROTHENHAUSLER

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Being on the sidelines for Invicta FC 5, did not sit well with Veronica Rothenhausler. An undisclosed injury forced her off the card, but at Invicta FC 6 on July 13th, she will get a chance to face off with her original opponent, Mollie Estes.

With all of her amateur and professional bouts ending in victory via KO or TKO, Rothenhausler possesses rare knockout power. Veronica plans to use her power, and training at Team Alpha Male, to rise straight to the top of Invicta’s Featherweight division.

Corey Smith: You were scheduled to return to Invicta this past April, but withdrew after a training camp injury. Can you reveal the nature of the injury and how it occurred? Have you fully recovered at this point?

Veronica Rothenhausler: Yes, I have fully recovered and haven’t had any issues with it since.  

CS: How anxious are you to return to the cage after the injury? How soon after the injury were you able to resume training?

VR: It was really hard to sit on the side lines for IFC5, but Estes was pulled to fight Budd before I had made the decision to get an MRI.  I’ve been waiting for this fight for six months.  I can’t wait to get in there.   

CS: With all of your amateur bouts, along with your lone professional bout ending via first round knockout, how do you maintain motivation to train for a full three rounds?

VR: I’ve never known any champion to train for only one round.

CS: You train at Team Alpha Male, where Duane Ludwig recently began coaching. Many Team Alpha Male members have credited Ludwig with an increase in wins for the team. What has Ludwig brought to the team in your opinion?

VR: Duane Bang has changed my life, as a fighter and as a person.  That guy is like a hilarious Mr. Miyagi.  The boys and I work hard as hell and do whatever it takes to win, so adding the knowledge of Bang is a deadly combination.  He’s the best in the world at what he does.  We’re very thankful to call him ours!

CS: What is the best advice you have received from a veteran member of Team Alpha Male?

VR: I’ve learned so much from all of them, there’s no way I could pin point just one piece.  I’m crazy about my dudes, they’re the best.  They’re also super funny and the hardest working people I’ve ever come across.

CS: You will be facing off against Mollie Estes in your return to the Invicta cage on July 13th. How familiar are you with Estes? Do you anticipate any sort of hometown advantage for her, as she lives and trains in Kansas City?

VR: I introduced myself to her at IFC5.  She was cool.  I got to see her fight Budd.  It doesn’t matter what city we’re in, once we step into that cage it’s my world.

CS: What are your thoughts on the 145lb division in Invicta with the returns of both Cris Cyborg and Marloes Coenen?

VR: I love it!  We’ve got eyes where I want em’.  The 145ers are comin’ in heavy handed and giving the crowd what they want.  Cyborg and Coenen are bad ass vets and I am very appreciative of them for building the foundation of this weight class.  That being said, there’s a new kid on the block and I won’t stop until I’m on top.

CS: What are your goals for the remainder of 2013 in Invicta FC?

VR: I want to evolve into everything that I know I’m capable of.

CS: Excluding fight prep, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment? Any fellow Invicta athletes that you are a fan of?

VR: I pretty much eat, breathe and sleep MMA.  I’m always trying to learn more.  My dad always told me to watch the best and see how they do it.

VR: Invicta is like one big family.  Pretty much everyone that I’ve met has been cool.  I’ve found a long lost sister in my girl Thug.  She’s a stud.  I’m also a fan of Jo Jo.

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

VR: I want to thank my mom and dad.  I wouldn’t be here without them.  Haha, get it?

VR: I also want to thank my boyfriend, Zach.  He’s a dream come true.

VR: My coach and my team- we’re takin over boys!

VR: I’d like to thank my sponsors as well- BANG Muay Thai, PatinoDiet.com, Torque, UNBREAKABLEMOUTHPIECES.com.  You all make it possible for me to live my dream.

VR: I also want to thank Invicta for doing what people said was impossible!  Shannon, Janet and the rest of the IFC family.

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FIGHTING WORDS: MOLLIE ESTES

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Rugged and durable Mollie Estes will step in the cage in front of her hometown, July 13th at Invicta FC 6 at the Ameristar Casino in Kansas City, MO. A strong advocate of the sport, Estes is a welcome addition to an already stacked card.

Originally scheduled to square off at Invicta FC 5, Estes will faced noted strikeout artist Veronica Rothenhausler. Estes will look to test her opponent’s stamina as she tries to have her hand raised in victory on July 13th.

Corey Smith: You will be returning to the Invicta cage for a third time on July 13th. What has your experience been like with the company?

Mollie Estes: I couldn’t be more pleased than to fight for Janet and Shannon. They are first class ladies and professional business women. I feel very blessed.

CS: You spoke about how fighting before a hometown crowd can provide distractions leading up to the fight. How do you try to minimize those distractions?

ME: I plan on making this fight my focus. Just like turning off the TV, I plan on turning off many social and work aspects of my life and placing them on hold until this fight is over.

CS: Reading your comments about previous opponents, you seem to identify weaknesses very well in your opponents. Where does that come from?

ME: That comes from loving the sport. I have watched my own videos over and over and tried to re-live those unsuccessful moments in a more radiant light for my own benefits. Every move we make forms a pattern of who we are and we tend to repeat those same patterns. Humans are predictable and the ones who aren’t…well they are Beck Hyatt, lol, and we can’t get enough of that.

CS: You stepped in on short notice to face a well-respected veteran of the sport in Julia Budd at Invicta FC 5. What grade would you give yourself on your performance?

ME: Being competitive I was SO disappointed. Logistically it played out as anticipated by the critics, but my what-ifs keep following me. “What if I would have beat Julia to the take down each round instead of letting her shoot first? ” and ”Why wasn’t I meaner, more ruthless?”

ME: Honestly Julia is the strongest woman I ever fought. To finish my thoughts I did want to have more of a stand up fight, but she followed protocol and brought it to the ground again just as she had done in her past few fights. But if the shoe fits, wear it. I left the ring hoping that I made her feel like she earned her paycheck that night.

CS: Since the Budd fight, what have you been focusing on in the gym? What areas have you been trying to improve the most?

ME: I have been repeating more simple scenarios during this fight camp. Basic things that I think will remind me how to finish a fight more swiftly the moment that I am in a position to do so. It’s like watching UFC where one fighter gets top mount and ends up getting beat up from the guy on the bottom. I don’t want to waste any time to finish this one.

CS: You will be facing your original Invicta FC 5 opponent, Veronica Rothenhausler, at Invicta FC 6 on July 13th. How much training and game-planning was completed before the opponent switch last time? How familiar are your with Veronica’s game?

ME: Veronica has a right hand J . I worked on footwork, stand up, keeping my hands up and a lot of take downs to prepare me for my last fight that was to be against Veronica. Now I have been going over what I learned from the last camp. I am sure many would like to know if Veronica can go the distance.

CS: What are your goals for the remainder of 2013 in MMA?

ME: I always train one fight at a time. My vision as a competitor leads me to July 13th, however as an advocate for the sport I plan on helping out much beyond my fighting years. I give monetarily to the MMA community and that will not stop. I plan on getting my trainingforwarriors.com certification in August and my personal ambition is to help strengthen women’s minds as they empower their bodies by learning self-defense and MMA.

CS: Are your sons involved in martial arts at all at this point? At what age do you think that it is appropriate for children to begin instruction in some type of martial art?

ME: My two boys love sports and play so many, but for some reason they think ju jitsu is just a fun game and team sports is the serious side of the spectrum. I don’t try to persuade them either way and I never force them to go to class. It’s kept casual. Kid time should be fun time.

ME: Five years of age is a good time to start children in MMA. They are cognitively developed by that point, enough that they will enjoy it and learn. I do believe that one should not teach children to punch anything but mits and a bag though, until they are much older. It just isn’t necessary. Ju Jitsu is a perfect way to begin and mutual respect is the first rule that they should learn.

CS: With a strong history in rugby, and all things being equal, if rugby and MMA are on tv at the same time, which are you watching?

ME: J World cup final vs. a Versus UFC rerun?? World cup. Or Collegiate All-Star games vs. a Rhonda Rousey fight night? Ronda …ok I am cheating. MMA pulls me in like people staring at a bearded lady. MMA wins.

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

ME: I would love to thank Steve Crawford’s American JuJitsu and coaches whose home is inside my favorite gym, 68 Inside Sports.

ME:  Also thanks to my largest sponsors: The Mladenoff Clinic and iStressed out.com, Ahlers Building Maintenance and Timeless Tattoo KC, MO.

http://www.crawfordsmma.com/, http://68insidesports.com/, http://sedca-ceutics.com/custom_content/c_224224_istressedout.html, http://www.mladenoffclinic.com/,www.abmaintenance.com, FB: Timeless Tattoo KC.

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FIGHTING WORDS: LIVIA VON PLETTENBERG

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Invicta FC welcomes Austrian import Livia Von Plettenberg back with a bout against fellow exciting prospect Cassie Robb at Invicta FC 6, on July 13th.

Looking to erase the memory of her loss to the much more experienced Joanne Calderwood at Invicta FC 4, Livia is motivated to make a better impression in her return to the Invicta cage. Durable and tough, Von Plettenberg is a pupil of the legendary Matt Lindland, and plans to get back on the winning track on July 13th.

Corey Smith: How did your journey into the world of Mixed Martial Arts begin? What discipline did you begin training in first?

Livia Von Plettenberg: I started out with Thai boxing back in 2009. When I lost a fight given to a reach disadvantage, I joked about MMA being a more suitable sport for small, bulky people. Initially a joke, the idea about fighting MMA stuck in my head and soon I started training BJJ. After a couple of BJJ tournaments I added wrestling to my schedule. My first MMA fight was in June 2012.

CS: You hail from Austria, and had your first professional fight there. What is the MMA community like in Austria and in Europe in general?

LVP: The MMA community in Austria is very different compared to Switzerland, Germany or the Netherlands (those are the countries I have experienced MMA training and events in). WMMA barely exists. You already know all of Austria’s WMMA fighters, Jasminka and I.

LVP: MMA is becoming more popular, but to be honest I don’t have the highest opinion of what Austria has to offer. I prefer technical fights over mere brawls and these are hard to find. Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands show a more professional approach, there are better MMA gyms, well organized events and some very talented fighters.

LVP: The UK is a completely different story; they do their own thing and are probably five years ahead of mainland Europe.

CS: You now train out of Team Quest in Portland, Oregon. What prompted that move? At what point was that move made?

LVP: I did not move to the States, but as I mentioned before, I wasn’t really content with my situation in Austria, and since America is the place to be for MMA, I soon realized that I wanted to train here. I am still living in Austria, but having my fight camp at Team Quest Portland.

LVP: There are still a couple of things to figure out; we’ll see where I end up in the future. Team Quest will definitely stay the gym I’m fighting and preparing for my fights though, no matter where I’ll live.

CS: The one and only Chael Sonnen recently had a very successful stint as a coach on TUF. How much coaching and instruction does Sonnen give around the gym?

LVP: Chael Sonnen had left Team Quest Portland before I even got here. He is training at One MMA, former Team Quest Tualatin. My head coach is Matt Lindland, he is the one preparing me for this fight and the best trainer I could have ever hoped for.

CS: Your last bout was a decision loss to noted striker Joanne Calderwood, a fight you took on roughly a week’s notice. What did you learn from that fight? Would you ever accept another short notice fight?

LVP: I learned that my chin really is quite strong. ;-) There is not much to say, I think at that moment in time Joanne simply outmatched me, 9 years more experience is quite a lot. I analyzed my fight though, and worked on some things I wasn’t too happy with.

LVP: I took half of my Thai boxing fights on short notice and never really cared about the outcome; I just enjoyed fighting and wanted to fight as often as possible. After my loss against Joanne I realized for the first time that a loss could actually affect my career, so I guess I would be more careful than last time.

LVP: Even though this loss did turn out quite positively.

CS: This will mark your second appearance in the Invicta cage. How has your experience been with the company so far? What are your goals with Invicta for the remainder of 2013?

LVP: Invicta should be a role model for every other promotion out there, they treat their fighters with respect and put so much time and effort into laying a foundation for WMMA to grow.  I am so grateful for the outstanding work Shannon Knapp and everyone at InvictaFC do.

CS: You will be dropping down a weight class to face Cassie Robb at Invicta FC 6 on July 13th. Do you anticipate any problems with the weight cut? How familiar are you with Robb?

LVP: Not at all, I lost twelve pounds over the last four months so the cut will be pretty much the same as for my straw weight bouts, maybe even easier because my body fat percentage is much lower now.

LVP: I met Robb at Invicta FC4, she seems to be a very nice girl. Skill wise I saw some of her past fights. I’m pretty sure that this is going to be an exciting fight, we’re both pretty scrappy.

CS: On fight night, what is your mindset? Do you have any routines that you perform? Any superstitions?

LVP: I usually just take a moment to sit down, breathe and thank myself for choosing this exciting path.

CS: Who will be accompanying you to the cage on July 13th? What type of feedback do you prefer from your coaches?

LVP: That question is yet to be answered. It might be Matt himself or Cody Isaacson, another excellent trainer from Team Quest. This really just depends on their schedule haha.

LVP: I prefer short and positive feedbacks. Telling me things using negation doesn’t work for me, maybe it’s because I learned at University that the brain can’t process negations in a stressful situation. However, I tend to listen very well during the fight, so whatever my coaches want I’ll do.

CS: In regards to moving to Team Quest, are you enjoying living in America? What types of activities do you enjoy purely for fun?

LVP: I don’t live in America. ;-)   Back in Vienna I spend most of my time with my dog or at the gym. Other than that I prefer quiet evenings, watching movies with friends or cooking together.

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

LVP: I would like to thank my coach Matt Lindland and everyone at Team Quest, you are my second family.

LVP: Also, I would like to thank my sponsor BOXHAUS. Everyone interested in high class boxing in Austria should check out Pro-gym Sportcenter.

LVP: Last but not least many thanks to my mother Daniela and my brother Philipp, my biggest fans and supporters.

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FIGHTING WORDS: CASSIE ROBB

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Trying to prove critics and herself wrong, Cassie Robb originally got into MMA five short years ago, and has been hooked ever since. Losing her first amateur bout via submission, Robb quickly decided she wanted to be a well rounded fighter, and has worked nonstop since to develop a strong grappling game to compliment her boxing.

Cassie “The Hulk” Robb smashes her way back into the Invicta FC cage on July 13th, at Invicta FC 6 when she faces off against fellow prospect Livia Von Plettenberg.

Corey Smith: You originally got into MMA after seeing your first female fight at a local card in Wyoming. What was it that sparked your desire to begin training in MMA?

Cassie Robb: I think the fact that nobody thought I could do it was a big push for me to give it a shot. I wasn’t even sure if I could do it, but I wanted to try it anyway! It looked like so much fun!

CS: After only a few weeks of boxing training, you decided to take your first amateur fight. What led you to believe you were ready for that fight? What was your goal going into that fight?

CR: To be honest I wasn’t sure if I was ready. Like you mentioned I only trained for about 2 weeks at a boxing gym, then I heard of some fights in Cheyenne and thought I’d give it a shot.

CR: I was confident that my boxing skills and my natural instincts would kick in.  I learned not to take a fight without the proper training, that it’s something you have to work hard for, it’s not just given to you.

CS: How did you career progress after those first few amateur fights? What lessons did you learn?

CR: After losing my first fight to a submission, I decided I REALLY didn’t like how it felt to be submitted. I hated that I had to give up and tap out. From then on I worked my butt off to become a better grappler, and all my victories are by way of submission. I learned that it’s not smart to just get in there and try to do something like that without the proper training.

CS: Your fiancée, Stephanie Skinner, is also an MMA athlete. Some athletes have said that it is beneficial having a partner that is also a combat sports athlete, while others have said it can be stressful, especially if there is shared training. Do you believe it is beneficial on a personal and professional level?

CR: I believe that it is beneficial in both ways. Training with my fiancée Stephanie is a privilege. She is an amazing fighter and I look up to her more than she even knows.

CS: Where do you train now? What type of atmosphere do you have in your gym?

CR: I train with the Serial Boxe Killers. The atmosphere is amazing. My teammates are awesome, we are like one big family and we have a great time training together! I have some very talented people that I train with, and I am lucky to be part of such a skilled group!

CS: Where did the nickname “The Hulk” come from?  How do you feel it is appropriate for your fighting style?

CR: Haha I love being asked this! Around the time that I started fighting, the new Hulk movie with one of my favorite actors (Edward Norton) came out. I saw that movie and was obsessed….I felt like I could relate a lot to the character. I’m very calm, collected, and easy going….but once you get my adrenaline pumping, I turn into a beast!

CS: Your opponent on July 13th, Livia Von Plettenberg, will be dropping down to 105lbs for the first time. Do you feel like this could affect the outcome of the fight? How familiar are you with Livia?

CR: I don’t think that the weight matters honestly, its how you use it. I have fought girls bigger than me before that I could easily muscle off of me because they didn’t know how to keep themselves heavy or use their weight properly in that position. It all comes down to skill and who is the better fighter.  I am not very familiar with her aside from her fight with Joanne Calderwood that I saw when I fought on the same show. I kept thinking, “dang that girl is TOUGH!”

CS: What is your mood like on fight night? Do you prefer to be left alone or to interact with others? Any routines that you have to perform?

CR: I get very anxious the night of my fight. I like to kick back and relax with my teammates and only interact with a small amount of people to let them know how I’m doing and the outcome of my fight.

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback are you looking for from your corners?

CR: My two coaches Ben Schissler and Diana Rael accompany me to the cage along with my physician Dr. Alex Constantinides.

CR: I am just looking for them to help me through it like they always do, they have done this for a long time and I trust and have faith in every move they tell me to make. Diana to me has a very distinct voice, I can hear Ben also but for some reason Diana’s voice really sticks out and I hear her better than anyone else.

CR: I look up to her a lot too and its comforting to know she can help get me out of any bad position that I am in, so I really rely on her if I get stuck.  I try to tune out the crowd and listen to for her or Ben to tell me the next move to make.

CS: Outside of the cage, what types of activities do you enjoy? Any favorite TV shows that you never miss?

CR: I really enjoy spending time with friends and family, and my pit bull Marlei.  I don’t really watch much TV though.

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

CR: I would like to thank all my teammates, including Stephanie Skinner, Ben Schissler, Diana Rael , Ali Hanjani, Nathan Gates, Steve Paprocki, Steve Johnson, Samuel Gilmore, Kevin Powers, Luke Rutz, William Ellis, Rosa Acevedo, Matt Peckham, and our newest addition to the team Matthew Cox.

CR:  I would also like to thank my physician who takes the time off to come and doctor my fights, Dr. Alex Constantinides.

CR:  A big thanks to my family, friends, and fans out there as well!!:) I wouldn’t be where I am without this great support system!

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FIGHTING WORDS: MICHELLE WATERSON

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FIGHTING WORDS: MICHELLE WATERSON ON BECOMING THE NEW INVICTA FC ATOMWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

Michelle Waterson recently defeated Jessica Penne at Invicta FC 5 to win the World Atomweight Championship, and she took a few minutes to tell us what life has been like since winning the championship, what it’s like to be a fighting mother, and most importantly where she keeps the title belt!

Michelle also walks us through the championship bout itself, and reveals how important the mental aspect of training is to pushing through when you run into adversity. Fighting Words thanks Michelle for her time!

Corey Smith: You began training in martial arts at a young age, specifically American Karate and Wushu, which led to the nickname “Karate Hottie.” What aspects of those martial arts do you utilize the most in your MMA career?

Michelle Waterson: I think that right now the most that I use from my karate background would be my kicks. They aren’t necessarily karate kicks, but the quickness of the kicks is what sets me apart from a lot other MMA fighters out there. I can shoot the kicks out there quicker, and right now I’m working on putting some power behind it.

CS: After karate, you switched over to Muay Thai, and spent some time training over in Thailand. What is it like in a Thai training camp compared to an American training team?

MW: In Thailand, in a lot of the gyms they have the children living there. A lot of the families are poor, and fighting has always been a way for them to get out of poverty. When I was training in Thailand I felt how fighting was their life. The kids there live in the camp, they wake up there, they go for their run, and they eat breakfast and then go off to school. When they come back they train at night, and then do homework. In Thailand they fight pretty often and the fighters give their prize money to their families so they can eat.

MW: The camps themselves, and I’m not sure if it was just the camp that I was at, or if it is like this all over Thailand, but it was outside. So it was a great experience, and I would love to go back now knowing what I know and compare my fighting ability. When I first went out there to train I had only had my karate and Wushu background.

CS: You train now primarily out of Jackson’s MMA in New Mexico. What drew you to that team, and what keeps you there today?

MW: Before I was training out of Denver with Donald Cerrone, and he went out to New Mexico to train. I was on the reality show Fight Girls and I didn’t want to go back to Colorado. So I ended up going out there and seeing how I liked it, and ended up really loving it. Coach Jackson opened his arms and his gym to me, and treated me like family. Coach Jackson let me live in the dorm until I found a place there, and it really touched my heart and it became part of my life.

MW:  I liked the fact that he treated us like his own children, and it really did have a family feel to it to me. I loved the fact that there were so many people coming in to train, and I didn’t have to go to three different places to train, I could train at one spot. I ended up falling in love with New Mexico, and so I ended up staying.

CS: You gave birth to your daughter Araya close to two years ago, what has been the key to balancing your MMA career and being a mother? What has been the biggest challenge?

MW: I think the key to being able to balance it, is having a really supportive family. My husband supports me in what I do, and tries to help me as much as possible. My mom lives with us and helps watch Araya, so I didn’t feel guilty leaving her at home because she is with my mom.

MW: The hardest part is missing those “first” moments when she is so young. I feel like she is growing up so fast, and sometimes during a training camp you get in the zone and you have to go, which is hard.

CS: Your husband is a professional boxer, how much does that help with your career? How much does it help having someone who understands what a training camp is like when you get home at the end of the day?

MW: I think it makes a huge difference, I think that’s why we mesh so well. He has a boxing background, and I have MMA. There are similarities, but they are also different enough that we can have something to ourselves. He does understand, and we understand each other.

CS: Most fighters say that the weight cut is the hardest part about being a fighter. Aside from that, what would you say is the hardest aspect?

MW: I think getting through mental blocks is the hardest part for me. Your mental has a lot to do with your physical, and it all intertwines together. It’s the most challenging part for me, fighting through mental blocks, and it’s also the reason I enjoy fighting so much.

CS: How has your experience been like so far with Invicta Fighting Championships?

MW: Being an Invicta fighter makes me feel blessed. Shannon and Janet and everyone that works for the organization truly does have our best interests at heart. They want to see us succeed, and it’s a good feeling to know that they are on our side. I always tell people that they don’t call us “females” or “chicks.” They refer to us as athletes, and that’s what we are. That’s all we’ve ever wanted to be. In turn we want to perform for them, so it’s a win win for everyone.

CS: You recently defeated Jessica Penne for the Invicta Atomweight Championship. Jessica had you in trouble a few times, most notably with an arm bar in the third. How did the fight go compared to how you thought it would beforehand, and what were your general thoughts about the match and after the win?

MW: My game plan going into was to focus on what I needed to do to her, so in my mind I never visualized her beating me. It was always what I could do to her. I understood that wherever the fight went, I needed to be mentally strong enough to take it there. I wanted it to be a standup fight, and it always seems to work out that way for me. The biggest problem for me was that she was the champ, and there was a lot of hype behind her, and for good reason.

MW:  I was the overwhelming underdog going into the fight, and I needed to push all of that aside and know in my heart that I could beat her. So I didn’t pay attention to any of the media, and I tried to stay away from the internet. I got in the zone on my own, and just kept telling myself that I could beat her. I knew that I had the physical capabilities of doing it, I just had to go out there and perform.

MW: I thought the first round was kinda back and forth, and I feel like it could have gone either way for both of us. The second round I think that I was able to dominate her. I wish that I had done a little more ground and pound, but I also understood how good of a jiu Jitsu player that she is, so I just had to keep working her with heavy pressure.

MW: The third round I was just getting worked though. Everyone keeps asking me about the armbar, but truthfully the armbar isn’t when I felt like I was in danger. It was her ground and pound that I felt was never going to end. She had my back, and I felt like every time I moved she kept getting a better position for her ground and pound. I had to keep telling myself “keep pushing through.”

MW:  I was talking to Coach Wink today, and he told me had spoken to John McCarthy, the ref in the fight, and that John heard me say me say to myself “don’t quit.” I remember thinking it in my head, but I didn’t remember saying it out loud. It’s crazy how much mental control you have over yourself. I don’t have control over what Jessica could do to me, but I have control over what I can do.

MW: And so at that time and moment I choose not to quit, and I think that turned the tables. I don’t think Jessica was expecting me not to quit, and I was able to get out of that armbar. And then the forth round came around, and we went to the ground I was able to set up a string of submissions and landed a good one. So here we are.

CS: When you are in the cage, what type of coaching and feedback do you look for from your corner? Did anyone’s voice stand out over the others that night?

MW: I think that it’s important to have calm corners, corners that can see what I am not seeing and bring me back to the little things that I am not doing. I usually always look at my mom and Araya when I’m coming out. Coach Jackson, Coach Wink and my husband were in my corner for this fight, and I couldn’t ask for anything more. They are always there for me, and that’s a dream corner right there.

CS: What was the reaction at your gym when you brought the title in for the first time?

MW: Everyone just kept saying “The champ is here! The champ is here!” It was a good feeling, and everyone was happy for me. Lots of pats of the back. They all helped me get the title, so it was nice to bring it home.

CS: Looking at the Invicta Atomweight division, what are your thoughts?

MW: I think that our division is an amazing division. As far as me scouting out the other athletes, I’m not any good at that. I just take it fight by fight and let my coaches do the scouting. I always respect any fighter that gets in the ring, because they put in the time to get there. I take my training and I focus on myself though. I leave the outside stuff to my coaches.

CS: Where do you keep the title belt now? Do you take it to dinner with you or sleep with it like other champions?

MW: It’s the centerpiece for my dining room table!

CS: Are there any perks to being the champion that you didn’t realize before? Do you get a closer parking spot at the gym?

MW: No not really, I think it’s kinda just life as usual. It is pretty awesome to have someone call me ‘champ.’ It has meaning to it for me.

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

MW: For me it’s changed a lot since I had my daughter. I really enjoy spending time with her, and with family. It’s the little things you take for granted. She’s already two years old, and I just enjoy spending time with her and my family in general outside of fighting.

MW: I love to do crafts, I’m a scrapbooker! Anything crafty I enjoy doing when I have time, and I’m addicted to Pinterest. When I’m cutting weight I pin all the fatty recipes for later; for times when I can eat. I also enjoy doing anything adventurous and outdoors; camping, rockclimbing, anything like that. It’s hard to find time for it during camp with a family as well.

MW: During camp we always watch movies together. Movies take you out of reality for a little bit, so we love to watch movies. We just got a new house, so for my last camp all I did was come home and remodel the house. I didn’t have time to stress about Jessica in camp, or what was being said. After training I had to come home to tear down walls and paint.

CS: Now that you have won the championship, what are your goals moving forward?

MW: When I was the contender, I was talking to Coach Jackson and he told me it was easy becoming the champ, it’s hard to stay the champ. That is something that I have to keep in mind, because now I have a huge target on my head. Everyone is gunning for me, so I have to keep improving my game. I still feel like I wasn’t able to showcase my abilities when I fought Jessica. You do so much in training, and you practice so many moves, and then you get in the fight and don’t get to show it off. I still feel like I have so much to show people.

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

MW: I couldn’t do it without my husband or my mom taking care of Araya. And I want thank all my family and fans for being supportive of me and believing in me.

MW: Invicta of course for making it all possible!

MW: My strength and conditioning at Turning Point, and my coaches Coach Jackson, Coach Winkeljohn, Coach Izzy, and Coach Valle.

MW: My sponsors EatFit@ABQ.Com, Bony Acai, Buffalo Wild Wings, OnIt Supplements, and MMA Sporting Goods.

MW: Follow me on Twitter @KarateHottieMMA

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FIGHTING WORDS: BARB HONCHAK

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FIGHTING WORDS: BARB HONCHAK ON WINNING THE INAUGURAL FLYWEIGHT TITLE

Still humble despite winning the inaugural Invicta Flyweight Championship, Barb Honchak looks back at her career defining win at Invicta FC 5 this past April, while simultaneously looking forward at the future of a division in our exclusive interview.

CS: It has been a few weeks since you won the very first Invicta Flyweight Championship. Has it sunk in yet that no matter who holds the title years down the road, you will always remain the first athlete to have ever held the title?

BH: I am not sure I will fully understand what this means to me until I am well into my retirement.  I am very happy to hold this title from Invicta, as I feel it is a very legitimate world title.

CS: What types of changes have there been since you won the title on April 5th?

BH: I cannot say that there really have been any changes. I expect Invicta to continue to challenge me with the best women in the sport. I will continue striving to change and improve as I always have.

CS: What did it mean for you to bring a title back to Miletich Fighting Systems, with the long list of champions that have trained there?

BH: I think of all the emotions I experienced from this fight, the most intense were with regard to this topic. There is such a huge history with MFS producing champions and at one point it was said they would never produce another.

BH: I love to prove people wrong when they throw absolute words around like ‘can’t’ or ‘never.’  There is still a huge knowledge base there. The team weaned down a bit for a while but it is on the rise again, and I will not be the last champion from MFS.  I just got the ball rolling again with the help of my coach Junior Hernandez and our personal Yoda, Pat Miletich.

CS: What did it mean to have Pat Miletich corner you for the bout?

BH: Having Pat in my corner was incredible. He understood what this fight meant to the gym and I. Junior is a great knowledgeable corner, but having Pat there was like having an extra security blanket. I knew he would see things I didn’t, and when either of them yell something at me, I know I do not have to second guess them. I know they are right about what they are asking me to do.

CS: What was the reaction at your gym when you brought the title in for the first time?

BH: The first time I brought it up was for my BJJ coach Pedro Silveira, who was visiting from Brazil. He and a few of the other guys took pictures with the belt and I. I know they are proud for me, and with me. All of them helped earn that title. It belongs to the team, not just me.

CS: Vanessa Porto posed a stiff challenge in route to your victory to claim the title. How did you see the fight going beforehand? And how much did that differ from how it actually went?

BH: I did expect a more intense fight than what we had. I expected more exchanges and even more clinch and ground work. However, when I tried to visualize our fight before hand, I always ended up focused on standing with her. So I suppose I really did expect it to stay on our feet. I assumed she would look at me in a similar manner as she saw Tara, so I was not very surprised that she kept the same game plan.

CS: How confident were you that you had won the decision when the final bell rang?

BH: I am used to feeling more dominant than I did in that fight. I knew I had landed more strikes and I knew I pushed the pace for the majority of the fight. But you never know what the judges do or do not see, or what they were looking for.

BH: I did not feel like I made major statements in all the rounds. So at the end of the fifth round I looked at Pat and asked him if we had it. When he confidently said yes, I knew it was ours.

CS: Looking at the Invicta Flyweight division, what are your thoughts?

BH: I think there is still a lot of talent out there that I have not fought yet. I also see a good number of 135lb girls potentially dropping to the 125lb division.  I believe I have already fought some of the best, but many up and coming fighters are looking quite impressive and I believe I have plenty of challenges ahead of me.

CS: It was recently announced that Leslie Smith would drop to Flyweight and face Jennifer Maia in July at Invicta FC 6. The winner will earn the right to challenge you at a future event. What are your impressions of both fighters?

BH: This is the first I have heard of the match and of Smith dropping. I think that will be a great fight.  It seems to be a bit of the classic striker versus grappler type of fight.  Smith will have the reach advantage on Maia, but Maia has a lot of experience and will have a plan for that, no doubt. Either fighter would be a great opponent for my next fight.  I look forward to watching.

CS: Where do you keep the title belt now? Do you take it to dinner with you or sleep with it like other champions?

 BH: I think at the moment it is in my bedroom. So, in a way, I guess I do sleep with it.  The only trip it has made with me so far is to the gym, but I suspect it will be making more outings.

CS: Are there any perks to being the champion that you didn’t realize before? Do you get a closer parking spot at the gym?

BH: Haha! Not really. I hope it brings me a few more sponsors and fans, but nothing has really changed. I am still working hard and I still have a lot to learn.

CS: Now that you have won the championship, what are your goals moving forward?

BH: Now that I have it, I want to defend it, a lot. I have been told it is easy to obtain a title, the hard part is holding on to it. To prove yourself a true champion, I believe you have to repetitively defend your title as people constantly come for it.

CS: Lastly, as you mentioned, it took a team to win the inaugural Invicta Flyweight Championship, who would you like to thank?

BH:  I want to thank my team and coaches at Miletich Fighting Systems in Bettendorf, Iowa. My conditioning coach Josh Howat with Big Five Strength and Conditioning.

BH: Thank you to my husband Tim Beeman, my family and all my fans.

BH:  Thank you to all of my sponsors for Invicta FC5: POLANTI, ONE Coconut, Outlaw Fightgear, VII AD, KLENCH Mouthguards, Combatives Gear, Fight Soap, Throat Punch and SWOLE.

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FIGHTING WORDS: JESSICA PENNE

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Women’s MMA trailblazer Jessica Penne steps back into the Invicta cage on April 5th, for another first; Invicta FC’s first ever title defense.

Penne will defend her Atomweight title against Jackson’s MMA standout Michelle Waterson at Invicta FC 5. Few women can match the 10-1 record of Invicta FC’s first champion at any weight class, and Penne is focused continuing her reign long into the future.

Corey Smith: One of the common themes in your career has been firsts. You participated in the first Bellator Women’s MMA bout, and along with competing on the first Invicta card, you were the first champion of any weight class for Invicta as well. Do you enjoy being a trailblazer?

Jessica Penne: I do cherish my experiences and the opportunities that I have had thus far. I’m excited about the future of WMMA and hope to have a few more firsts.

CS: You have gone on a strong winning streak since settling at your natural weight class of Atomweight, with wins over Amy Davis, Lisa Ellis, and of course winning the Invicta Atomweight title with a win over Naho Sugiyama. What has been the biggest change in your life since winning the Invicta Atomweight title?

JP: There really hasn’t been any change. I was back in the gym a couple days later and back to work. Hopefully with this title, I can stay busy this year.

CS: You’ve spoken in the past about how hard it used to be to get fights at 105, and having to fight outside your weight class just to keep fighting. Why do you think there are so many talented women at 105 now?

JP: With the growth and popularity of the sport there have been many additions and shifts in weight classes. It’s an exciting time for the sport and for this division.

CS: What kind of effect does working for an organization that treats it’s athletes as well as Invicta have on your fight performances?

JP: I’m so thankful for Invicta. Janet and Shannon have given me and the other women in the sport a place to call home. It feels good to be treated with respect and treated as a professional.

CS: Reading the list of the gyms and trainers that you use, it’s quite the impressive list. Reign MMA, Checkmat BJJ, King’s MMA, Blackhouse. What is the advantage of having the varied gyms for training? Do you enjoy getting different feedback from different coaches?

JP: I am really fortunate to train at such amazing gyms! Each coach has so much to offer. I feel that it is important to train each discipline separately to have a better understanding of them. It’s nice to have coaches that are great in their respective disciplines. My coach Mark Munoz always helps me put everything together.

CS: Being at the bottom end of the weight spectrum in MMA, is it hard to find training partners in your weight class? How hard is it to train with partners, male or female, that are above your weight class?

JP:  It’s was more difficult in the beginning to train with larger people.  It was difficult to learn and apply everything that I learned because there was always such a large size difference. Now it is a little bit easier to find training partners. I have a couple of main training partners, both male and female. But yes, they are always larger than I am. I think it is better to deal with a size and strength disadvantage in training though.

CS: When you aren’t training, what type of things do you enjoy doing? What helps you unwind after a long day of training camp? What food do you dream of most while in the middle of training camp?

JP: I enjoy gardening, walking the monsters, going to the beach. I really like being active as well. I like paddle boarding, hiking, cycling etc.

JP:  I eat pretty clean when I’m not fighting so I don’t really crave a whole lot when I’m dieting. I just cut down on my portion sizes. My favorite junk food is popcorn and anything chocolate, I’ve got to have that every so often.

CS: You are defending your title for the first time against Michelle Waterson at Invicta 5. What type of challenge do you think Michelle brings to the table?

JP:  I think Michelle is a tough fighter and comes from a good camp; I’m looking forward to the challenge. I think it will be an exciting fight.

CS: Michelle fights out of Greg Jackson’s gym in New Mexico. Jackson fighters have been accused by some of sticking to close to a game plan for their fights. I understand you try not to have too much of a game plan going into your fights. Do you think that is an advantage in general or something that works best for you?

JP:  I don’t really know how other people plan for a fight.  I just know what works for me.

CS: What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer during a fight? Whose voice do you look to the most?

JP: I trust my coaches and corners to the fullest. I do what ever they tell me, however they tell me.

CS: Fighting is equally a team sport as it is an individual sport. Who would you like to thank?

JP: I’d like to thank my coaches and teammates at Reign training center, Kings MMA, Checkmat BJJ and Innovative results. Nathan Gable, Jason Parillo, Chris Franco, Prime Time 360 management. Thank you to my sponsors RVCA / VASport, Vega and Thrive Foods. Thank you for your support, it means everything to me!