Fighting Words: Maegan Goodwin
Ready to make a name for herself in her professional debut, Maegan Goodwin steps into the Invicta FC cage November 1st against fellow Invicta FC newcomer, Kelly McGill.
Corey Smith: You initially thought that mixed martial arts might just be a hobby for you. Do you remember when you first believed it might be something you could pursue professionally?
Maegan Goodwin: Yeah, I NEVER thought I would be a fighter and neither did anyone else who knew me. I was never into MMA. When I started training I just fell in love with it.
MG: I love how challenging it was and how complex everything was. There are so many ways to win (and lose.)
MG: I remember like it was yesterday when I was watching the guys grapple and I thought to myself, I could do that. I want to do this for real!
CS: You have spoken about being inspired by athletes such as Ronda Rousey and Cris Justino. What specifically inspired you about them?
MG: Mostly their work ethic. I follow them on social media and watch all their training stuff; I have from the beginning.
MG: They’re just bada**es!! They don’t take crap from anyone and Ronda for sure, will always shoot you straight whether you like it or not.
CS: You were undefeated as an amateur, and will make your professional debut for Invicta FC on November 1st. What led to your decision to turn pro at this time?
MG: Haha! Shannon Knapp and Julie Kedzie led to my decision! I made it clear Invicta is where I wanted to call home and whenever that opportunity came I was going to be ready! And I am!
CS: Your height and reach make for a rare combination in women’s MMA. What advantages and disadvantages do your height and reach have?
MG: Ahh, different things. Obviously a reach advantage is never a bad thing. If I’m throwing/kicking right, I’ll always get to her before she gets to me.
MG: It’s also a benefit in grappling in some ways. A disadvantage in other ways. It’s a lot easier to take me down and a lot harder for me to take someone down, also.
CS: After signing with Invicta FC, what goals do you have within the organization? How has your experience been like thus far with the company?
MG: Right now my only goal is to fight my fight Nov 1 and make a statement! If I fight like I know I can fight, I should do just that! After that of course I would like to work towards the belt. But for now my sights are on Kelly McGill.
MG: So far it’s been great! They’re super quick about getting everything taken care of and answering any questions. I know it’s going to be amazing once I actually get there fight week!
CS: Your opponent at Invicta FC 9 November 1st, Kelly McGill, is an up and coming prospect as well. How familiar are you with McGill? What are you expecting out of the bout?
MG: I actually don’t know too much about her I have looked her up a little and watched a couple fights. I think she considers herself more of a grappler than standup fighter.
MG: I expect nothing less than a brawl! I kind of think she will try to take me down because I’m taller and have good stand up, but I could be wrong. I’ll be ready for both!
CS: What is your mood on fight night? Do you have any routines or superstitions that you have to perform?
MG: No, I never really have gotten into anything like that. I just show up and get focused and fight. I usually start out really calm, but then when my hands get wrapped the nerves kick in a little.
MG: Once I get in the cage though, that all goes away.
CS: Who generally accompanies you to the cage? What type of feedback and coaching do you prefer from your corners?
MG: My boyfriend is always in my corner. Generally I like a lot of criticism, but right before the fight I like more positive pumping up type of words! Haha.
CS: Aside from fight preparation, how much MMA do you watch purely for enjoyment?
MG: Quite a bit! Right now I’m watching TUF every Wednesday and it seems like every weekend there are fights somewhere or a UFC on!
CS: Outside of the gym and MMA, what types of activities do you enjoy for fun? What helps you to relax?
MG: Honestly, I really don’t do much else! If I’m not at the gym or working I’m just at home with my boyfriend. We’re very active, so were always outside doing something, visiting family or trying to find something fun. We’re not very good at relaxing!
CS: Lastly, MMA takes a team to succeed alone inside the cage. Who would you like to thank?
MG: I have so many great sponsors that help me so much! Revgear, Iron Jaw Mouthguard, XionX, Pro Event Sponsors/Ignite, Sports Food, Sallisaw Family Fitness, Floating Mats, Brian Dubuc (@The_Scalper), Soap-A-Licious.
MG: I also have THE best manager, Jay from Fresh Start Entertainment.
MG: Other than them, my boyfriend who helps coach me and Thunderkick who I recently started training with and all my family, friends and fans who give me constant support!
Invicta FC 9 takes place November 1st live from the RiverCenter in Davenport, Iowa. The full card will air live via UFC Fight Pass. Click below to subscribe to UFC FightPass.
Tickets will go on sale at the following link later this week.
