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Fighting Words: Jodie Esquibel

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Learning to stay in the moment, Jodie Esquibel returns to the Invicta cage September 6th at Invicta FC 8 against newcomer Jinh Yu Frey in an Atomweight showdown.

 
Corey Smith: After a lengthy boxing career, you eventually made the transition over to MMA. What keeps you competing in MMA?
Jodie Esquibel: My last fight was actually a boxing match. I took the boxing match trying to work on my hands for my MMA style. So I fought the boxing match as if I was fighting a MMA fight. So you could say that I am more focused on MMA right now. It’s where I’m at in my career.
JE: I’ve fought overseas boxing, and I’ve fought the big title fight out of the country. I just feel like I am super motivated and on the right track as far as my MMA career goes. I’m fighting for Invicta, and it’s the best women’s organization, if not the best organization for MMA right now. So I’m exactly where I need to be, and focusing on MMA.

 

CS: You have trained at Jackson’s/Winkeljohn’s since before they were one gym. What types of changes has the gym and team gone through over the years?
JE: It’s a great change. Things are only getting better.  With the coaching staff, we have brought on more coaches, and I have more training partners now that we are merged into one gym. I train with the best guys in the world. It doesn’t necessarily mean that I am sparring with Jon Jones or the Andrei Arlovski’s or Alistair Overeems. But they stay after practice, and we sit down and they say “hey you dropped your right hand.” Are you kidding me? To be able to have that knowledge in the gym, and merge as one big family has been great.
JE: We plan on moving into a bigger facility in the next year or two. Mike Winkeljohn has a big part to do with that, and how we stay on top of our game with conditioning, strength, and recently he has become a big advocate for fighter safety. I’m just lucky.

 

CS: With training camp injuries a common occurrence in MMA, how do you balance getting the full amount of training that you require but still guarding against injury?
JE: It’s hard. Training accidents are going to happen. The cool thing is, we are a big family here, and so I trust my training partners. If some freak accident happens in training camp, than oh well, we will figure it out. We go hard though, and I trust them, we trust each other.
JE: We are just careful; we are not a bunch of newbies coming up trying to just knock each other’s heads off. We are really technical, and we can take it to the edge and be technical, but still be safe. That’s most important.

 

CS: What were your first thoughts when the content distribution deal was announced between the Invicta FC and UFC FightPass?
JE: I thought it was great! I knew to just stay positive throughout the layoff. I believe in Shannon, and I believe in Julie. I knew they were going to figure out what they needed, and what was going to be the best for us. So I put my faith in them, and we came out with the UFC FightPass deal. It’s unbelievable. Shannon has been providing that platform for the fighters, and now we have an even bigger platform than before. It’s great. It’s amazing.

 

CS: You last fought in April of 2013 for Invicta FC. How do you combat any concerns of ring rust after such a long layoff?
JE: No. Not really. I am excited to get back in there. A punch is a punch. Once the gloves start to fly, it will shake off. It hasn’t been that long in my eyes, and I was very active during the layoff, spending the time to get better. I don’t feel like it was a super long layoff, and I am not worried about that at all.

 

CS: On September 6th you will square off against Jinh Yu Frey at Invicta FC 8. What are you expecting out of yourself and your opponent that night?
JE: I think it’s a great matchup. I think I’ve said it before if stylistically you match up well then you expect a battle. I think she is great, and it is a great matchup. I don’t really pay attention to my opponent. There is nothing that I can change about how they are preparing.
JE:  I’m just assuming she is going to train as hard as she can. It’s her first Invicta fight, and that’s a big motivation. I’m just going to train as hard as I can, and get myself to a point where I can perform at my best.

 

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
JE: You know what? I did earlier on in my amateur career. I always had to have my right hand taped first, or something like that. My mood is calm; I’m trying to conserve energy. I’m about to go max effort, and try to win this extremely tough athletic competition before the night is up. So to me, to expel extra energy is useless.
JE: I like to stay calm, and I like to stay cool and just hang out. I don’t like the idea of superstitions because you don’t want anything to mess with you.  Say Stitch accidentally does your left hand before your right, and then you freak out. You are already in a high stress environment, you are about to get punched in the face. Anything you can alleviate is better, so just go with it. Enjoy the journey, and try to stay away from superstitions.

 

CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
JE: I work very closely with striking coach Brandon Gibson, and of course Mike Winkeljohn, along with Greg Jackson. Lucky for me, I have Keith Jardine in my corner too. Keith usually flies out with me, but the coaches come out later. I guess that’s too many corners, but who’s counting right? I am super lucky. It’s crazy to even say. Greg Jackson and Mike Winkeljohn are legends. Brandon Gibson is one of the best striking coaches in the world. And I have them all in my corner. Are you kidding me? I’m super lucky.
JE: I didn’t think that it would be this way, but I can hear Keith’s voice very clearly. Greg is unbelievably clear, and they all work so well together that no one is ever yelling over anybody. They are just simply talking. I can hear what they are calling out. I always thought that I wouldn’t be able to hear Keith, because I hear him every single day at the house, but he is very clear to me. I trust his voice, so that helps me too.
JE: In the very beginning it was hard for me to take direction from Keith, which it shouldn’t have been because he is a legend himself and so smart. Sometimes it’s just hard to hear your significant other tell you “hey you are dropping your right hand.” In my head I think “you don’t know, I was tired or whatever.” But he does know, and he’s been there.
JE: I just had to get over my own ego to benefit from what he was offering. He is just a wealth of knowledge, and I am lucky to just get over myself. I ask him to watch me spar or how I got taken down that day, and that’s our conversation over dinner.

 

CS: Fighters seem to be split on the benefits of being in a relationship with a fellow fighter. What do you believe the advantages are?
JE: I think it’s good. It’s fun to have someone that understands the weight cut, and understands the ups and downs of camp. I got my ass kicked today, and I want to talk about it. If you haven’t fought competitively in a combat sport, you don’t know what it feels like. You don’t know the feelings. Team sports are a lot different, football players, its different when you get in there by yourself.
JE:  And to have someone that understands that, it’s huge. Especially to have someone that has competed at the highest level that there is, I’ve benefited from that.

 

CS: Most fighters list the weight cut as the hardest aspect of being a fighter. Setting that aside, what do you consider the hardest aspect of being a fighter?
JE: I think just finding that balance. I think a lot of us over commit ourselves to training, or miss family events. And maybe it’s just now because I am getting older and I’ve been fighting for a long time that I look back on some things that maybe I didn’t have balance.  Missing birthdays or what not just because you are training or in camp. We put our whole lives on hold for eight to ten weeks and just involve ourselves in training if we have the opportunity to fight.
Finding that balance is really hard. It’s hard for young fighters, and it’s hard when you are at the end of your career. It’s a hard thing to do. Finding symmetry in your life, finding things outside of fighting that you enjoy as well. I feel like I’ve done that this last year and I feel like I’ve been able to enjoy camp a little more.
JE: Enjoy the journey, more than just the end. Look past the grueling camp, and just enjoy every single day of it. It’s super important. Before you know it, no matter how many boxing matches or MMA fights you have, you don’t want it to be a blur. Just enjoy the ride, and be present in every single moment.  Every single bad day, every single loss. Don’t brush anything off. We are on this amazing journey that not a lot of people get to have, and I’m just trying to find that balance. But it’s hard.

 

CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
JE: My team. Without out all my teammates, male or female, I wouldn’t be here. We have a great team here, and I am blown away by the talent that we have.
JE: The coaching staff, which is of course Greg Jackson, Mike Winkeljohn, and Brandon Gibson.
JE: Gracie Barra, Professor Barata and Professor Ortega have all opened their Gracie school for me.
JE: Caveman Coffee for always keeping me fueled. FightChix collaborated with me on the shirt, which is super cool because I’ve never had a shirt before. FightChix jumped on board, and I am super excited to be working with them.
JE: My family, who puts up with me. My mom and my dad have been my rock, my solid.
JE: Keith has always been in my corner.
JE: My team, my coaches. I am blown away by how selfless that they are, and I am humbled by it all. Except for Ike Vallie Flagg.

 

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

 

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Fighting Words: Jinh Yu Frey

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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Fighting Words: JJ Aldrich

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 


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

 

Tickets for Invicta FC 8 may be purchased here.

 

Start your free 7 Day UFC FightPass Subscription here.

 

 

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Fighting Words: Delaney Owen

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


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

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


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

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


CS: What keeps you involved in it today?

DO: The power to walk through life without fear.


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

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

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


CS: What made you want to call it home?

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

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


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


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

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


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

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


CS: What are you expecting out of the bout?

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


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

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


CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage?

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


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

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


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

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


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

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

CS: What helps you to relax?

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

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

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

DO: My boxing instructor Chevelle Hallback.

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


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

 

Tickets for Invicta FC 8 may be purchased here.

 

Start your free 7 Day UFC FightPass Subscription here.

 

 

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FIGHTING WORDS: ESTHER LIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EL: Story is key.

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

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

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

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

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

CS: Lastly, who would you like to thank?

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

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Fighting Words: Natasha Wicks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FIGHTING WORDS: LAUREN MURPHY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LM: Yeah, I just asked her what happened.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FIGHTING WORDS: SWAYZE VALENTINE

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Like Invicta FC, Swayze Valentine is a pioneer in the world of Mixed Martial Arts. The first woman to work as a cut person for the major MMA promotions, “The Queen of Cuts” continues to knock down barriers and show that she is capable of performing her job as skillfully as anyone in the sport.

Corey Smith: Swayze is rather unique for a first name.  What is the origin of your first name?

Swayze Valentine:  Swayze is a beautiful name that originates from Germany.

CS: You have spoken about becoming instantly addicted to MMA after your very first live show. How much of the show are you able to enjoy as you work?

SV:  That is a good question, as a Cutman, you get the best seat in the house. For me, I personally am too focused on my fighter that I don’t catch the fight in its entirety. I record the fights at home so when I get back, I can actually “watch” it! J

CS: After trying other avenues to become involved in the world of MMA, Cut-person attracted your attention. Whose hands did you wrap the very first time? How did your skills progress from there?

SV:  The first persons’ hands I ever wrapped besides my own, was Kit Cope’s hands. He was a coach at the Combat Fitness in Boise, Idaho. He was the first person I saw when I walked in their door that day. I told him that I wanted to learn to wrap hands and I needed someone to practice on. He told me I could wrap his hands. We went to the local Rite Aid and purchased very expensive gauze and tape. I went back and started to wrap Kit, the way I learned just the night before from watching Stitch’s Youtube videos.

SV:   I would travel 120 miles round trip to that gym in Boise, every day to wrap all the fighters I could, for their sparring sessions. Some nights I would wrap 1 and some other nights I would wrap 3-4.  I feel bad for those victims that let me wrap their hands in the beginning stages of my career! J

SV:  They never complained and when I would ask them how it felt, the fighters would have a smile on their faces and tell me, “Feels great!” Looking back on it now, I know I wrapped their hands too tight. Those fighters wore my hand wraps like champs! I’m so thankful for all the fighters that sat down in front of me, to let me practice on them. Their good sportsmanship was so valuable!

SV:  Through trial and error for a few years, my skills have progressed so much, that I have had the honor to wrap the hands of Chael Sonnen, Brian Stann, Yushin Okami, Scott Jorgensen, etc. That was a huge step for me! I get the honor at every show, to wrap the hands of so many extremely talented fighters and future legends of this sport! I’m thankful for any hand that allows me to keep up on my craft and for that fighter to trust me with their weapons!

CS: Along with wrapping of hands, you are licensed as a Cut-person, and also licensed to carry Epinephrine. How did the training process for treating cuts unfold? What is the purpose of the Epinephrine?

SV:  My personal training process for learning the cut side, was with great help from my mentor UFC Cutman, Adrian Rosenbusch. I flew out to Las Vegas where he lived, and he worked with me for 10 days straight. There was a lot of early mornings and late nights of repetitious scenarios and practicles. Of course this was just the start of it. The real test is to work on an actual person in real life scenarios. He took the time to have me learn every step as perfectly as I could. We spent a lot of time learning each step perfectly. Even on how to apply the grease (Vaseline) to the fighters face. I must have done it over a thousand times in those 10 days J When it came time to work the cage for the first time, we went slow. SV:  I would work several shows just greasing the fighters before they enter the cage, then I worked my way up to actually working in the cage. I went slow and took the time to learn every intimate detail of this profession.

SV:  The purpose of Epinephrine is to stop bleeding. Epinephrine is a blood coagulant, a vasoconstrictor.

CS: What do you believe a standard cut person’s duties are during a bout? Do you deviate from those in any way?

SV:  In my opinion, a Cut person’s duties and priority is the fighter safety! Make every step, to keep that fighter safe. I do not believe I deviate from that one bit.

CS: What does a typical fight day entail for you? How early do you start and when are you finished?

SV:  A typical fight day for me entails me waking up around 8am. I start checking all of my supplies after I have some breakfast.  I end up checking my supplies several times through out the day, making sure I haven’t forgotten a thing! I catch the shuttle at call time and head to the venue. Once I get to the venue, I will cut towels and set up my hand wrapping station.

SV:  I have my wrap list from the day before and I head to my first fighter and begin wrapping in fight order. Once all the fighters on my list have been wrapped, I get ready to head cage side to start working the fights. My evening comes to a close pretty soon after the fights have ended. I gather my things, say congrats, thank you and good bye to everyone I can find. Then I catch a shuttle back to my hotel. I usually get back to the hotel around 11:30-Midnight.

CS: What do you consider the hardest aspect of your job? What challenges do you face if any, by being a female cut person in a traditionally male dominated occupation?

SV:  I would have to say the hardest aspect of my job is also the best aspect about the job. Like travel! It is so cool to travel to different places, but the jet lag or delayed/missed flights can be quite difficult.  As for challenges I have faced being a female in a traditionally male dominated sport is gaining the trust of the coaches and fighters. In the beginning, a lot of people didn’t take me seriously. Being a woman, they didn’t trust my work or my ability to take care of them. I would have corners refuse to let me wrap their fighters hands or grease them before they go into the cage.

SV:  I have had a man controlling the cage door; refuse to allow me in the cage to take care of an injured fighter. I have even had my hand wraps cut off of fighters by coaches, cursed out by corners. The worst that had happened to me, I was physically assaulted in the cage by a corner, while I was trying to help an injured fighter.

SV:  I will always have challenges being a woman in this industry, but I appreciate those challenges. I just shake it off and not let it get to me emotionally. It makes me stronger and pushes me to work that much harder!

CS: What kinds of preferences does a fighter have in the way their hands are wrapped? What is the interaction like as you wrap their hands?

SV:  Usually a fighter isn’t too picky about their hand wraps. They are typically in a completely different state of mind and trust you to do what you do best. The most common preference is a thinner hand wrap, thicker pad or to not wrap their thumb. These are the most common requests.

CS: This was your first time working an Invicta FC show. What were you impressions of the company and the way the card was conducted?

SV:  This was my first time working with Invicta. I was extremely impressed with the company. The show ran like a well oiled machine! Every person running that show ran it perfectly! I cannot say enough great things about it. There was so much care and thought put into every aspect of this company and it show’s through their production and colleagues. The card was phenomenal, so many amazingly talented woman. I was honored to be asked to be a part of woman’s MMA History!

CS: What was the atmosphere like working a show comprised entirely of female athletes compared to a show that featured only men, or one or two female bouts?

SV:  The atmosphere was very well balanced. Even though there were all female fighters, the majority of the corners were male. I think it married beautifully. The interaction between everyone was very supportive. I remember being in the shuttle on the way to the venue and a coach was talking about his experience with working with woman vs. men and he said,” I have to talk to the woman calmly in the corner. It’s not like working with a male fighter. You can’t yell at a woman or she will cry or get all emotional, you have to speak softly!” I thought this was a very logical opinion. J

CS: What do you believe an all female promotion such as Invicta does to further the sport as MMA as a whole?

SV:  I feel that Shannon hit the nail on the head. I think that her values for the sport are allowing it to grow in a way no one could have ever imagined. Shannon said it beautifully in her own words,

“My goal has always been — always, from day one and from the moment I ever stepped into this sport — to make a difference. And when I had the opportunity to start Invicta, and to build Invicta, the goal professionally and personally was to still make a difference. And to create opportunities. So for me, this is an amazing thing not only for Invicta, but for athletes and for future athletes. Because these girls are going to go in there and continue to break down those barriers that we’re fighting hard to break down everyday, and they’re going to get the opportunity and the recognition that they deserve.”

CS: Lastly, who would you like to thank?

SV:  I would love to thank my children, family and friends. They have all be such great supporters of me.

SV:  My mentor, Adrian Rosenbusch. Rob Monroe, Stitch and Don House, I thank them all for their kind words and encouragement.

SV:   I really want to thank Invicta for being a monument for all of us women to grow with them and make history!

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FIGHTING WORDS: TECIA TORRES

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Dubbed the “Tiny Tornado” for her whirlwind fighting style inside the cage, Tecia Torres will lock horns with Felice Herrig December 7th at Invicta FC 7.

Though Herrig represents a significant jump in terms of experience, Torres believes she possesses the tools to secure a win December 7th, and is ready to show she can be counted among the very best at 115 pounds.

Corey Smith: After a busy amateur career, you turned professional in October of 2012. How has the experience been like thus far?

Tecia Torres: I am really glad I choose to turn pro last year. I feel like I made the right choices at the right time. I came into the professional arena at a great time for women. The sport is expanding and there are more options now for us. Especially with Invicta and now the UFC offering two weight classes. It has been super thus far. Every aspect of my training, fight life, and fans/media has grown. I am happy with my continued success and progress. I look forward to a bright future.

CS: All of your professional fights have come under the Invicta banner. How would you describe your relationship with the company?

TT: Invicta is simply amazing. Shannon and everyone who stands behind the Invicta banner have been so supportive of WMMA and doing all they can to expand and mainstream us even more so. I love it and am grateful for all the opportunities Invicta has given me and will give me.

CS: You currently train out of American Top Team in Florida. What makes ATT the gym you want to call home? How would you describe the atmosphere at ATT?

TT: I call American Top Team my home because it is a world class facility that breeds champions and top world fighters. I have access to everything I need as a fighter. I train with some of the very best fighters in the world, including women who are my peers.

CS: With training camp injuries a common occurrence in MMA, how do you balance getting the full amount of training that you require but still guarding against injury? What does a typical day of training camp entail for you?

TT: Thankfully I’ve stayed injury free throughout all of my training camps thus far. I listen to my body. When I need rest, I rest. A typical day of training consists of 2x a day. My morning session is typically harder, more explosive and the evening session is technique, drills. I also do a lot of 1 on 1 sessions with my boxing and Thai coaches. Plus strength and conditioning and any other random training sessions. For example, I like to attend women only BJJ/grappling sessions held once a month in town. It gets me different looks and fresh faces.

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 7 on December 7th, Felice Herrig, represents a significant jump in competition. What do you think a win would mean for your career? What are your thoughts on the bout?

TT: I believe that the matchup against Felice Herrig is most definitely a step up in competition, but at the same time I know that I am right in her league. I’m ready to exchange with the “lil bulldog.” Its surreal, a year ago I was the #1 amateur at 115lbs and now on Dec 7th I will face the #5 in the World Professional Straw weight. I’ve come along way in a short period of time. It’s my time to show all I have and make everything I can out of this opportunity. A win would place me even more so amongst the very best in WMMA at 115lbs. It would put me even closer to a title shot and potentially being the champion one day.

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

TT: Normally a coach, a girl training partner, and my brother accompany me in the cage. I like positive reinforcement and hearing familiar voices.

CS: For those that have not experienced it, how would you describe the walk out to the cage?

TT: For me the walk out to the cage is lots of fun and smiles. I’m in the zone, which is my own zone. I like to wave to the crowd, look around and see/feel the energy. I’m at my happiest. I’m about to do what I love most!

CS: Most fighters list the weight cut as the hardest aspect of being a fighter. Setting that aside, what do you consider the hardest aspect of being a fighter?

TT: The hardest aspect of being a fighter to me is just balancing my time. I’m always on the go and want to do everything.

CS: Your coach orders you to take a day off from training. How are you spending that day?

TT: At the beach, with friends and family, out to dinner or the movies. Simple stuff. Shopping too.

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

TT: I would like to thank everyone at American Top Team my coaches and teammates.

TT:  My Sponsors, family, friends, and fans for supporting me.

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FIGHTING WORDS: VANESSA PORTO

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Fresh off a hard fought defeat to Invicta FC Flyweight Champion Barb Honchak, Brazilian veteran Vanessa Porto again faces a stiff test when she takes on Zoila Frausto Gurgel at Invicta FC 7 on December 7th.

With the judge’s decision at Invicta FC 5 leaving a bad taste in her mouth, Porto is aiming for a knockout on December 7th; hers or Gurgel’s. With standout submission skills, and a focus on improving her Muay Thai, fans should not blink come December 7th.

Corey Smith: Your passion for marital arts was ignited your first day of training. How do you keep that passion alive through the grind of a training camp?

Vanessa Porto: My passion stays alive because I love what I do. Being a fighter is a very tough job but this is what I love and I’m blessed that I am able to keep doing it. The will to win and all my training partners and my husband/coach keep me motivated. Now that WMMA is getting so big, the stakes are higher and the girls are getting better so that motivates me to be on top of my game.

CS: You train in Brazil for most of your camps, but also spend time at MMA University in New Jersey right before any fight in the United States. How does the split benefit you?

VP: I train with my husband in NJ and Brazil so I’m happy either way. Training in America at the MMA University has given me more opportunities and better training partners. I feel like things are a little more advanced here.

CS: With training camp injuries a common occurrence in MMA, how do you balance getting the full amount of training that you require but still guarding against injury? What does a typical day of training camp entail for you?

VP: I get physical therapy sessions and massages after training. Accidents do happen in this sport but we try and train smart to prevent injury.

VP:  It depends on the day but always do my running in the morning and a physical conditioning session and then two training practices whether its Muay Thai or BJJ or MMA sparring. Since Zoila has very good Muay Thai we have been training a lot of Muay Thai to counter her strength. It’s going to be a war.

CS: How would you describe the growth of MMA in your home country of Brazil over the past few years?

VP: It’s been huge!! The UFC came in and everything in Brazil has changed. They are better opportunities for all fighters in Brazil now; men and women. Also with Invicta the top girls in Brazil are getting to fight internationally and show the world their skills. Now we just need more sponsors in Brazil to step up and support their athletes

CS: You most recently competed against Barb Honchak at Invicta FC 5. What did you learn from that bout?

VP: I learned that you can’t let the fight go to a decision. LOL Everybody has different opinions on who wins a fight. Barb and I were very evenly matched, but I felt that my shots were more powerful. This fight I’m going in there to KO Zoila or to get KO’d because I love to strike but I have to be more aggressive this time. No more judges

CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 7 on December 7th, Zoila Frausto Gurgel, is a well known and accomplished competitor. What are you expecting out of the bout?

VP: I’m expecting Zoila to be very tough. She is with a good camp as well. She is very well rounded. She has very good Muay Thai, but I do too. I feel like I will be more powerful and I plan on using that power in our stand up exchanges. She’s a former champion and a great test for me. There are no easy fights in Invicta.

CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?

VP: I have been fighting professional for almost 10 years. I stay calm the whole day. I like to focus on my fight and I don’t do much talking on fight day. I get serious. No rituals though.

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

VP: My husband/coach Pedro Iglesias is always in my corner. He knows me well and always give me good advice. My manager Chris is flying out to corner me as well.

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

VP: Yes I enjoy watching UFC. We always watch the fights and of course every Invicta if I’m not on the card. I’m a big fan of the sport. I like a lot of fighters.

CS: If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

VP: Just to start my martial arts training earlier than I did.  But I’m happy that I started in MMA when I did in 2004. I feel like I’m a pioneer in women’s MMA, especially in Brazil and now I get to enjoy the WMMA boom when I’m in my prime. Twenty years from now I can look back and be very proud that I helped pave the way for all these talented women fighters coming up now.

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

VP: I would like to thank God first. My husband Pedro for dedicating his life to me and my manager Chris Vender for all the work he does for me.

VP: Of course Invicta and Shannon for the opportunity they have given me.

VP:  My teammates at MMA University, especially Ricardo Ruiz, Javier Gonzales, Bobby Markowski, Erin Blanchfield and Katlyn Chookagian for all their sparring to get me ready and all the Muay Thai girls that have been brought in for this camp to prepare me.

VP: Thank you for the interview.