Featured Fighter: Yann Oliveira

Name: Yann Oliveira
Age: 24
Height: 5.11″
Fight Weight: 135lbs-145lbs
School: Renzo Gracie NH/Sityodtong Boston
Record: MMA 2-0
City/State Born: Conselheiro Pena, Minas Gerais, Brazil

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

I started doing MMA in High school when a friend of mine told me about a place that his cousin used to train at, so I decided to try it because I was sick and tired of getting bullied by certain people. I wanted to learn how to defend myself properly and earn my respect from the ones that never gave it to me and if fighting the guys that use to bully me was the only way of getting it then I was going to do what I had to do, but not at any point did I think I would do MMA just to get revenge on anyone.  I just really wanted to learn and get better.

2. Did you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc prior to being a
licensed in MA? 

I did Capoeira when I was younger for a couple of weeks then I also tried Jiu Jitsu for a couple of weeks but what I really wanted to do was play soccer, specially living in Brazil that’s all I really did besides going to school as a kid.

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it? 

The Nickname that has stuck with me the most is “Handsome” Yann, and I got that nickname from Chris Grandmaison, former fighter out of Renzo Gracie NH. It all started because I would always come to practice showered and well dressed with my hair done and smelling good so one day I walked in to practice and I said Hi to Chris. He Replied back by saying ” whats going on Handsome? so my teammates that were around and heard it just kinda kept it so I went along with it and that’s what it is now. ( Sorry Chris I had to give it out) but my nickname is all because of you brother! hahaha

4. How did you get into the sport of MMA? 

Question number 1 answers this question.

5. Can you tell us something about your supporters and why they believe you should
be a Mixed Martial Artist? 

I believe I have the best support group I could possibly ask for. My coaches and teammates at Renzo Gracie and Sityodtong are the best there is out there. I’m not the best guy in the gym but I’m not the worst either. My Teammates push me very hard and never take it easy on me because they know in a real fight no fighter will take it easy on me and just let me win a fight. I just started working with Suckerpunch Athletics and I think its going to be a great relationship. I’m currently working on some new sponsorships and we will see how it goes and where it will take me. I have Krystyne Curtis and Michael Strazzere taking care of everything there is to be taken care for me as a fighter and they have really taken me in as one of their own. Global Warrior Management is a new thing for me and so far I couldn’t be any happier with how things are going and how on the ball they are about everything when it comes down to taking care of me.

6. What are your ultimate goals in the sport? 

My ultimate goal is to be a Champion in the UFC one day. i never dream small because i believe in my self and i believe i have what it takes to get there. Anything is possible through Christ and through hard work so if you combine the two you can move mountains if you needed to.

7.  What does your family think of your passion for combat sports?  Do you have
children?  Are they involved in the martial arts?  Do you have a spouse or significant
other?  What role do they play in helping you prepare for combat? 

My family thinks my passion is a bit crazy and sometimes don’t understand why the heck doI like to get beat up and beat other people up for a sport, but they understand that I’m a very competitive individual.   I have always been this way since I was a kid so it’s one of those things that they don’t love it but they also believeI should follow my dreams and do what makes me happy regardless what they think. I’m a Single man and have no kids. I spent the last 8 years of my life going from one relationship to another soI never gave myself time to enjoy being single and focus on myself. I’m not saying I wouldn’t give up the single life for the right person, but it would have to be someone who supports my life style and who wants to help me reach my ultimate goal.

8. What do you think about your next opponent?

I have a lot of respect for my next opponent. I have a lot of respect for anyone that has the guts to get inside of a cage and engage in a fist fight. What we do isn’t easy and it isn’t for everyone. Josh Beauparlant is a game opponent and always takes fights on short notice just like I have taken every single one of my fights so I respect him as fighter and I’m not taking him lightly.

9.  If you had the ability to change anything about the sport what would it be? 

I would try changing the gloves and come up with a way that the finger would be covered but athletes could still grapple because eye pokes has become a real problem and a lot of times and accidental eye poke can end a fight.

10.  How do you see the fight going/being finished? 

I cant really tell you how the fight will go exactly but i can tell you that we have been working really hard for this fight in the gym and im ready for anything Josh could come at me with. Im going for the K/O like i always do but if the submission is there then i will capitalize on it and put an early stop to this fight so i can go celebrate with my Mates.

11.  Can you describe for us what it is like to discipline yourself as you prepare to
make weight and develop or improve skill sets before fight night?  Do you feel like
your team plays a significant role in that discipline? 

It’s not everyone that can just discipline them self to lose 20-30lbs for a fight. It takes a lot of dedication and focus in order to do it. My teammates play a big role in it because they are always the ones telling me that its almost over. Soon enough I’ll be able to eat and that the fight is around the corner and that all my hard work will pay off. Not eating your favorite foods for long periods of time is horrible and I hate it because honestly on the inside I’m a big fat kid waiting to get out! I absolutely love food like more then anyone I know so not eating the things I like for a few weeks at a time is awful, but I know what I have to do in order to be successful in my weight cut and in my fight.

12.  In your time as a competitor what stands out to you most when a promotion offers
you a bout?  Have you ever turned down a potential match?  If so why?  Could you
offer the up and coming combatants any advice in these situations? 

I have never turned a fight down, I’m a fighter plain and simple andI’m not scared to fight period, and that’s why I have always had managers because if someone called and said ” Hey Yann can you fly to Vegas and fight Jose Aldo tomorrow? I would say yes knowing that chances are that I could get really hurt. My manager knows what he is doing and wont take fights that doesn’t make sense. A fighter needs to be built the right way just like a car engine, if you don’t put the parts together right and the mechanic isn’t a very good one then you can’t put that car to race against a car that has been winning 90% of its races. If the fighter doesn’t have all the tools he needs to win a fight against a complete fighter that has a record of 10-0 or 12-2 it wont make sense to put him in a cage when his only 1-0 or even 2-0 unless your 2 wins are against some studs that fight for the UFC or Bellator, but chances are is that at 2-0 you didn’t fight anyone at that level unless your a mix of Jose Aldo and Anderson Silva.

13.  For your last fight what measures did you take to ensure a victory?  What was
the training like in the 2 months prior to the fight?  Did you crosstrain?  If so, who
with? 

First off for my last fight I didnt have 2 months to get ready or even 1 month. I had 2 weeks to get ready and a 27lbs cut. I was able to cut 22lbs in the 2 weeks.  I tried as hard as I could but it got to a point that I was ready to pass out on my way to cutting even more if I didnt stop. We worked a lot on my cardio and my ground game for my last fight. Anthony Loycano is a great wrestler and has an awesome body triangle and always goes for for the rear naked choke. We knew going in to this fight that his game plan was going to be taking me down and beating me on the ground because we all know he wasn’t going to try striking with me considering the power behind my leg kicks. Our game plan worked out great even though he had a lot more time then I did to get ready for that fight.  I was able to outlast him with my cardio and make him work hard in the earlier rounds and take him out on the later rounds by using my superior cardio, conditioning and strength.

14.  Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why? 

I don’t like to call anybody out, I take it day by day and fight by fight and if ever a certain fight is presented to me against someone i dislike or someone I hav been wanting to fight for a long time then you will be seeing WWIII.

15.  What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights? 

My best weapon is my striking, power and athleticism all together. When you can mix the 3 together it can be complicated for someone to deal with unless they’re some unbelievable wrestler that can just hold you down the entire time and out grapple you.

16.  What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight?? 

I miss Brazilian food like crazy! I love going to a Brazilian steak house and eat about $80.00 worth of meat. I’m a sucker for ice cream, if you leave yours unattended around me, chances are is that it will be gone when you decide to eat it. It’s a fair warning guys!

17.  What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA?? 

As much as I love GSP my most memorable moment was when Matt Serra after winning the Ultimate Fighter show came back in to the UFC to beat GSP for the tittle. No one thought he could do it, he was a huge underdog but that just goes to show you that no matter how much of an underdog you may be you always have a chance to shock the world if you believe in yourself and work hard.

18.  How else do you spend your time when you are not training?

I enjoy playing soccer, going to the beach, ridding my motorcycle and spending time with my friends or who ever my significant other is.

I wanna give a big shoutout to the best coaches in the world, Coach Tim Barchard, Kevin Landry, Kru Mark Dellagrote and coach John Johnston. Also the best teammates I could possibly ask for, Nick Fiore, LLoyd Fernandes, Quintin Frosty, Kyle Adams whose also one of my coaches, Jared Cuomo, Ian from Renzo Gacie, Ben Guilfoyle, Jamie Courtney, Andre Jeudi, Rob Font, Tateki Matsuda, Lewis Corapi, Dat Tran, Brandon Chagnon, Jimmy Davidson, Rico DiSciullo. Big thank you to all my family members that believe in me and that always gives me positive advises and that always reassure me that I can do this. Thank you Michael Strazzere and Krystyne Curtis for everything and also Suckerpunch Atheletics.

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WMMMA Featured Fighter – Chad ‘Machine Gun’ Kelly

Name: Chad Kelly
Age: 21
Height: 5’7
Fight Weight: Flyweight (125)
Fight Team: FAA
Fight Record: 4-2 Amateur
City/State Born: Winchendon, Ma

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

 It was November 2009 I started watching the UFC with my friends starting with UFC 100 spent a little time looking for places to train few months later found FAA in Gardner which is a sister school kinda of FAA in Springfield. It’s run by my coach Mike Gibbs who is one of FAA’s longest students. I just felt me and Mike’s coaching style worked really well together from day 1.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?

 Nothing until I started I was always pretty athletic and did well wrestling around with friends even though i was smaller.

3. What’s you nickname, how did you get it?

MachineGun haha I got it from Nick Newell one of my training partners he worked at the history channel or something at the time said he saw a documentary of Machinegun Kelly a criminal during prohibition and this was after my first fight and it just stuck.

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport?

I truly believe I can and will become The UFC champ. I’m very competitive and from day 1 I wanted to be the best.

5. What do you think about your next opponent?

He is a tough 2-0 fighter from a great school hes is physically strong and seems well rounded

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished?

I know its gonna be a tough fight but I’m def a finisher and Look for finishes no matter where I am in the fight.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?

(140)

8. What’s your favorite part about fighting?

The training and constantly learning and all of it paying off with your hand being raised. And honestly punching, kicking, and choking people is pretty fun haha.

9. What’s the worst part about fighting?

Cutting weight by far

10. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?

Demetrius Johnson some day haha because he is the UFC champ

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?

My extreme good looks haha jk. Probably my drive to be successful. Unlike some people who just want to be the toughest guy in Mass I want real success.

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??

Where to start Chineese Food, Icecream,Oreos, Clamstrips Reeses. and plenty more

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA??

I really liked my august 24 fight for Warrior Nation I took the fight 3 days notice and fought at 135. For the first time cut like 3 pounds haha by not eating the day of the weigh ins and I felt pretty good the whole fight and I got the triangle in rd 3. Hoping for a better moment Jan 26th though

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training??

Well I work at FAA Gardner so when I’m not training or Teaching beginners and private lessons, I like to skateboard a little as long as I don’t get hurt haha. Also I like to eat haha

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting??

 HAHA Nothing I work at FAA Gardner but I do work 1 night crew saturday nights at a grocery store for extra cash.

Most of all I would like to Thank Mike Gibbs my head coach at FAA Gardner. All my other coaches Jeremey Libiszewski, Scott Labrie, Chris Yonkers, Miguel Valencia, Brandon Jeffries. All my training partners from FAA Leon Davis, Nick Newell, Jeff Haddad, Juicebox, JSP, Noel, Alex Santiago, and everyone else. My Managers BG and Tim Oconnor from Combat Sports Agency they have helped me alot with understanding how being a amateur is supposed to be and that its practice before you go Pro. All my family and friends. The promotions I fought for and I am going to fight for. And to WesternMass MMA for all your help and support.

We would like to thank Chad for taking the time to be our Featured Fighter! I was at Chad’s first fight, and knew right away that he was a very skilled, and promising fighter. He continues to get better each fight, and shows he is a danger to opponents, both standing, and on the ground. We all wish you the best on your quest for the title….go into NY and show em what New England is all about!

Featured Fighter: Cody Sargent

Name: Cody Sargent
Age: 23
Height: 5’8″
Fight Weight: 135
School: Balanced Ground MMA
Record:MMA 0-1 amateur
City/State Born: Blue Hill, Maine

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

In 2008 a couple of friends of mine brought me to Team Irish in Brewer, Maine. I got to meet and learn the basics from Marcus “The Irish Hand Grenade” Davis and Garth Krane. Both of those guys are incredible to work with. Marcus is one of my favorite fighters and a huge inspiration to me.

2. Did you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc prior to being a licensed in MA?

No I didn’t, just loved to fight! We moved around a lot when I was growing up so I was always the new kid at school. Which meant the girls loved me but the guys hated me, so I was always getting into fights.

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it?

No nickname yet!

4. How did you get into the sport of MMA?

I started training with some friends and fell in love with it. MMA is a very humbling sport, it’s almost like a form of therapy for me. It keeps me out of trouble and gives me a place to channel my energy. I find that the philosophy of martial arts help me in all aspects of life.

5. Can you tell us something about your supporters and why they believe you should be a Mixed Martial Artist?

Anyone and everyone who knows me knows that I’ve wanted this all of my life. I have a lot of support from friends and family.

6. What are your ultimate goals in the sport?

I plan to fight as often as possible, I want to travel and fight at big events. I don’t plan on taking any easy fights or dodging any opponents. I just want to have tough exciting fights that people love to watch.

7. What does your family think of your passion for combat sports? Do you have children? Are they involved in the martial arts? Do you have a spouse or significant other? What role do they play in helping you prepare for combat?

My mom would rather see me doing something less violent but she supports me just like my father and the rest of my family. Everyone is happy to see me do what I love and they all encourage me to chase my dream. I have a beautiful girlfriend who is 9 months pregnant with my first son. Her and her family are some of my biggest fans and supporters! They all give me the strength and courage to do this and I couldn’t do it without them.

8. What do you think about your next opponent?

I think he is a very tough opponent… He’s got more experience than me and he’s bigger than me. He is used to fighting at a higher weight class and he has had seven fights to my one. Anyone looking from the outside would say he should beat me but that’s what is going to make it so incredible when I prove them wrong.

9. How do you see the fight going/being finished?

I see the fight ending quickly. Either KO/TKO or his favorite way to lose submission.

10. Can you describe for us what it is like to discipline yourself as you prepare to make weight and develop or improve skill sets before fight night? Do you feel like your team plays a significant role in that discipline?

I believe everyday should be treated as if you are training for a fight. You are doing everything you should be doing anyway, lots of exercise, reframing from partying and drinking or any other toxic substances. Plus it keeps you focused, everyone should have a goals that they work hard everyday to accomplish… That’s what life’s all about.

Are you kidding me? My team plays a huge role, I owe it all to them. There’s nothing like it, it feels incredible to work with a group of trusted friends. We all know each others weaknesses and strengths and we help each other by correcting any mistakes.

11. In your time as a competitor what stands out to you most when a promotion offers you a bout? Have you ever turned down a potential match? If so why? Could you offer the up and coming combatants any advice in these situations?

Right now I am looking to fight whenever and whoever they offer me. I would never turn down a match. I believe that if you plan on competing you should always be challenging yourself. I think if you take an easy
fight it would almost feel like a false win.

12. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?

If I could I would love to fight Nate Diaz. It would have to be a catch weight obviously but there is something about that kid that I absolutely hate!

13. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?

My striking is my biggest strength, when the fight is standing up I feel completely at home. I love to brawl and exchange punches with my opponent.

14. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??

Luckily I fight in the lighter weight classes and stay pretty close to my fight weight. But I do have a sweet tooth, I love any baked goods. Cookies, brownies, cake exc.

15. How else do you spend your time when you are not training?

I sell cars for a living and any time I have off from work I make a trip back up to Maine to spend time with my family. I love fishing with my dad and playing pool with my friends.

I would like to thank my new team mates Nate Charles and Tollison Lewis. A shout out to my girlfriend Haylie Crossman and all of her family. My father Russell and my mother Vicki. My brothers and sisters Mandi, Cory, Holly and Cord. All of my friends. I want to wish Bruce Boyington luck in his fight! A huge shout out to my sponsor Hoodlum Fightgear. Thank you westernmassmma.com you guys are the best!

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Featured Fighter: Buck "Knuckles" Pineau

Name: Buck ‘Knuckles’ Pineau
Age: 27 years old
Height: 6’3”
Fight Weight: 185 lbs middleweight
Fight School: Choi Institute
Record: 4-1 2KO 2RNC
City: Born in Millinocket, Maine and from Ashland, Maine

1. When and why did you get into MMA?

When I was 13 or 14 my mother’s husband brought home a VHS copy of UFC’s ultimate knockouts; since then I’ve been addicted. I’ve always been involved in competitive sports and been a fan of combat sports. When I was in the Navy my shipmates and I spent a lot of time watching Mixed Martial Arts. I had always dreamt of competing in Mixed Martial Arts. When I returned home, I knew this was something I wanted to explore to see if I had what it takes.

2. Did you have a background in Martial Arts, boxing, etc. prior to being licensed in Mass.?

I had no background in combat sports. The closest I had come to MMA was trying to choke out my buddies after watching fights on paid per view.

3. What is your nick name and how did you get it?

My nickname is Knuckles. It started in the Navy and it just stuck. Everybody who knows me knows I love a good fistfight.

4. How did you get into the sport of MMA?

When I got out of the Navy I moved to Portland and researched local MMA gyms. I tried out a few and found a home at the Choi Institute; I’ve been training there ever since. I didn’t go to Choi’s just to train, I went there to train to fight.

5. Can you tell us something about your supporters and why they believe you should be a Mixed Martial Artist?

As a kid my family moved around a lot so I went to a lot of different schools. Now, I’m fortunate enough to have friends who support me from many different areas in Maine. My family and friends all know my drive when it comes to athletic competition. The adrenaline rush you get from training and fighting is indescribable and is a good match for my active personality.

6. What does your family think………

My mother is my number one fan and sponsor. She’s been ringside at every one of my matches! She’s often asked about how it feels to watch her son fight to which she usually responds, “It doesn’t bother me at all, I was the first one to hit him!” haha Seriously, my entire family is very excited about my choice to be a competitive MMA fighter! Not only because they see how much it means to me but they see all the positive things it has brought to my life. There is more to fighting than being in the cage; the fight is the reward for all the hard work you’ve put in. To be successful you need to train hard and take care of your body, both physically and mentally. Mixed Martial Arts is not just a hobby, it’s a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and one I take very seriously and my family is very supportive.

7. What is your favorite part about competition?

My favorite part is that moment right before you step into the cage. All your nerves and adrenaline hit you at once and you realize what you’re about to get yourself into. In that same moment all those nerves and self doubt fade away and you laugh at yourself while you realize that this is just what you do…..you’ve put in the work and now it’s time to reap the rewards.

8. If you had the ability to change anything about the sport what would it be?

Maybe to fight more often, other than that I think It’s great the way it is.

9. Can you describe for us what it’s like to discipline yourself as you prepare to make weight and develop or improve skill sets before fight night? Do you feel like your team plays a significant role in that discipline?

As far as making weight is concerned, I fight every opportunity I get so I stay within 10 – 15 lbs of my fight weight at all times. I’ve been lucky and able to compete often enough where I can look back on my fights and break them down to find the holes in my game. I concentrate on filling those holes every time I train. I’m always counting down the days to my next fight. As soon as a fight is over, it begins again and I’m focused on improving.

I don’t know if I would be able to do this without the guidance and support from everyone at the Choi Institute; without them I don’t think this would be possible. My coaches Jon Pinette, Matt Dehlinger and Alexy Cruiz are critical parts of my evolution into a well rounded mixed martial artist.

10. In your time as a competitor, what stands out to you the most when a promotion offers you a bout? Have you ever turned down a potential match? If so, why? Can you offer the up and coming combatants any advice in this situation?

For me there is nothing to consider; when a promoter calls and offers me a fight, I take it.
I have never turned down a fight; I feel strongly that if you take MMA seriously, you need to be ready for anything. It doesn’t matter who’s across the cage from you, you have to be prepared; this is Mixed Martial Arts. That’s my advice to anyone getting into this sport, be ready for anything.

11. For your last fight what measures did you take to ensure victory? What was the training like in the two months before? Did you cross train? If so, with who?

I didn’t take any time off between fights; I just continued to train hard and stay focused. I didn’t have much information on my opponent so I wanted to be sure my ground game was on point in case the fight went to the mat; which it did. Between my fourth and fifth fight I earned my blue belt in Brazillian Jiu Jitsu from Alexy Cruiz. Thankfully all the hard work and time I put in paid off. I’m fortunate enough that my gym has a strong relationship with the Portland Boxing Club and they allow me to come in and train during some of their sparring sessions. This gives me the opportunity to work on my striking with guys who really know how to throw hands.

14. How else do you spend your time when you’re not training?

There is no time when I’m not training….when I’m not training physically I’m training mentally. Hell I wake up in cold sweats from fighting Chuck Liddell!! haha

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Featured Fighter: Allen Edgecomb

Name:Allen Edgecomb
Age: 24
Height:5’6
Fight Weight:135
Fight Team:Shaolin Kempo Martial Arts/The Bushido Jiu-Jitsu Academy(Team Pedro Sauer)
Fight Record: 0 – 1
City/State Born: Vernon CT

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??
I really started liking MMA when I started watching WEC on spike tv. I was like “oh cool, the smaller guys are fighting now” I really appreciated the athleticism and strategy. My father also has been a lifelong martial artist which encouraged me to train.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?
Since I was young my father would sometimes show me kung fu, and taekwando techniques.
My real training began 4 years ago at Shaolin Kempo Martial Arts.

3. What’s you nickname, how did you get it?
I think Jesse Camp wants to pick one for me, haha.

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport
To push personal limits and exceed current physical and mental boundaries.

5. What do you think about your next opponent?
I respect any person who’s willing to go to war. I hope he’s as prepared as I am.

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished?
Death.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?
I’m not sure I’ve ever weighed more than 155. Without diet restrictions, I walk around 150.

8. What’s your favorite part about fighting?
The people you meet in gyms and training.
Such motivated, strong, and interesting people.
I also love the violence and athleticism.

9. What’s the worst part about fighting?
cauliflower ear and getting blood tests

10. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?
I thought fighting jeff emil would be fun. He beat me up and made me cry.

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?
My unorthodox striking, aggression and athleticism.

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??
Ben and Jerry’s strawberry cheesecake ice cream, donuts, and cake.

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA??
My first weight cut was horrific. I didn’t know anything about it. I didn’t eat or drink anything all morning and then I ran 10 miles on a treadmill in a sauna suit. Good Times.

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training??
I’m in a metal band and a party animal, I play a lot of violent video games, watch movies, and spend a lot of time with family and friends.

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting??
“I hustle every day” – Deez Nutts

I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me or made my life a better place to live.
My Dad has been my biggest support, I can never express how grateful I am. My entire family, Mom, Lori and Michael, Ellie and her wonderful family, Gina, mike & Linz. Sensei Dan and everyone at Shoalin Kempo Martial Arts, Rob Magao and The Bushido Jiu-Jitsu Academy and all the hard working students and instructors, Jeff Emil Haddad for making me cry. The COJ crew, Nathan Hayes, Matt Allen for showing me how important Jiu-Jitsu is, Ken Kaplan @ Kaplan Computers, Pride Of America Painting, Jesse Camp @ Warrior Nation. Everyone who’s bought a ticket to watch me fight. Chris Merrow, Carter Ross, Brian Wendus & Fam (miss you guys)The Right Hook, Zach Hayes for being my extreme sports sponsor 😛 Everyone at the foster home. And most importantly my higher power, whoever or whatever that may be, I feel Blessed to have the life I have. I fight for myself and all of those who support me. If there’s anyone I forgot to mention, Thank you and my appreciation goes far beyond this interview.

Big thanks to Allen for taking the time out of his busy training schedule to answer our questions. I was cage side for his first fight, (in fact that’s me and CityBoy in the green WMMMA shirts in this last picture of Allen…) and Allen is a very exciting fighter to watch!! If you haven’t got your tickets, get in touch with Allen, any of the other fighters on the card, or contact the Hu-Ke-Lau to get them!! See you all Friday night, for what should be an amazing night of fights, right here in good ol’, Western Mass!!

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Featured Fighter: Billy Giovanella

Name: Billy Giovanella
Fight Weight:135lbs
School: Connors MMA
Record:2-0 Pro
City/State: CT

Billy’s Ammy Debut at Cage Titans “Carnage” 11/5/2010. The first time I met Billy. Here he is choking out Matt Marshall to earn Sub.OTN.

Billy proudly walking out of the cage with his newly earned Submission of the night trophy. 11/5/2010

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

A little over 2 years ago I began trainning MMA, I did the Bay State Games with a couple
of seniors that I was helping get ready to go off and wrestle in college.

2. Did you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc prior to being a licensed in MA?

I started wrestling in HS for Carmine Colace at Franklin, who has been the coach now for 20 plus years
and is one of the most well respected HS Wrestling coaches in New England.

Giovanella controls Paiva Jr.at Cage Titans “Vengeance” 4/1/2011

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it?

Wolverine, my first fight I warmed up in a wolverine comic t-shirt and the name stuck, I’ve always
loved the character in movies, definatly the bad ass rouge of the bunch!!!

Here “Wolverine” is pressuring young Kody Nordby at AFO “Glory” 7/15/2011

4. How did you get into the sport of MMA?

I got into MMA by just calling some local gyms and seeing if they taught MMA. I had a wrestler friend from HS who
was already training so I went to go check it out.

6.  What does family think of your passion for combat sports?  Do you have children?  Are they involved in the martial arts?  Do you have a spouse or significant other?  What role do they play in helping you prepare for combat?  

My wife thinks I’m nuts for doing this, but she is my biggest fan. She doesn’t miss a fight!!! No kids for me… yet!!
We have 3 Dogs which we consider our kids(furry ones!!) We also foster dogs as well so my house is always full!!

Some hard earned hardware makes that “W” worth every ounce of effort. Giovanlla takes AFO’s 135lb Ammy Title at Night of Champions 4/13/2012

7.  What’s your favorite part about competition?

Getting the W!!!, I love it all, the training, the friendships along the way and just all in all being in great shape.
Makes you feel great, like you can take on the world!!

9.  Can you describe for us what it is like to discipline yourself as you prepare to make weight and develop or improve skill sets before fight night?  Do you feel like your team plays a significant role in that discipline?

My Team is awesome, we have a core group of guys that pushes each other to the limit and beyond. As for being disiplined,
you have to be just as mentally tuff to deal with all the other things going on with the sport.

10.  In your time as a competitor what stands out to you most when a promotion offers you a bout?  Have you ever turned down a potential match?  If so why?  Could you offer the up and coming combatants any advice in these situations?

My First pro fight was great, I had the promoter telling me you only get one chance for a pro debut, make

Giovanella enters the cage for Jimmy Burchfield Sr. and Classic Entertainment and Sports MMA event “Proving Grounds” 6/15/2012 as an 0-0 Pro.

it a good one.  Talk about motivation!!!  I’ve never turned down a fight unless I’m not available for that day due
to work or family.  If you wanna keep getting better in this sport you’re eventually gonna have to fight everyone.

11.  For your last fight what measures did you take to ensure a victory?  What was the training like in the 2 months prior to the fight?  Did you crosstrain?  If so, who with?

My last fight I took on some what of short notice.  Theo Dejardin had an oppenant back out and I offered to fill in. I’m moving
down to fly weight so i wanted to get some fights in at 130 catchweight and he agreed.  I always train like im getting ready
 for a fight.  We often have the studs from NEXUS Martial arts come down on saturdays to spar. Especially Jeff Perez. He has great striking and solid wrestling
a great guy to keep you moving, and laught your ass off too!!!

12.  How else do you spend your time when you are not training?

 If I’m not at home speding time with my wife and kids, ( the furry Ones). I’m at work. I am The Executive Chef of Tavolino Restaurant
down at Patriot Place. That place keeps me plenty busy!!!!

Billy would like to give a shout out at this point.  When asked who he would like to recognize he answered
“All My teamates, at Connors MMA!”

I would like to thank Billy for his time.  It is a great feeling that I get when I have the rare opportunity to learn more about one of my favorite local fighters.  As you can see I’ve been following Billy since he started out.  I will continue to follow his career and support his efforts.  Can’t wait to see him bring his game to Western MA next week.  Get it Billy…

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Featured Fighter: Joe "The Wild Ginger" Leonard

Name: Joe Leonard

Age: 33

Height: 5’8″

Fight Weight: 145lbs

School: Ravenous MMA
Record:MMA 2-2 Amateur
Wins via 1st Rnd K.O./ 1 Submission and Losses via 2 1st Rnd Ref Stoppages

City/State Born: Holyoke, MA

Fighting out of city/ state: Greenfield, MA

Achievements:  Competed in King of The Mat, Gold Medal at NAGA No-Gi Tourney, 2 MMA victories, Warrior Nation XFA 7 Fight of the night award, 4 years as a Ravenous MMA student under Jeremy Reipold and Todd Selva.

1. When and Why did you get into MMA?

     I began to train with Todd Selva in 2010.  He introduced me to the sport while we were working together to improve my strength and conditioning following my second bowel resection.  I was invited to see Sic Nick Vaughn fight his amateur debut in NH for GFL.  After making the 3 hour drive out there to meet him and his team, watching his fight in a killer venue surrounded by the most enthusiastic sports fans I’d ever been around, and hanging with everyone in the lobby afterwards to celebrate I was hooked.  I knew I wanted to be healthy enough to compete someday.

Nick Vaughn at GFL fighting Sean Nichols.  My first live mma event.  I was hooked.

2.  Did you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc prior to being a licensed in MA?

I actually have a decent history of martial arts training, but it has always been broken up for one reason or another. The first school I attended as a child was on Center Street in Chicopee, MA. It was run by Ken Canton and it was a Karate dojo. Sensei Canton was a kind man who was very patient with us children. I was about 7 or 8 at the time. My father’s health was a lot like mine is now and when he was hospitalized for long periods my parents couldn’t afford to keep me in classes. I don’t remember testing for rank ever, but I do remember practicing my Kata’s. I later moved to Greenfield, MA where as a young adult working for my own money joined the Tae Kwon Do Center lead by Master Johnson. It was a great school and a cool bunch of people to be around. I was a young teen and had lots going on in my life so I would drop out and rejoin every so often. I learned hand to hand combat basics in the short time I was enlisted in the U.S. Army. That about sums up my prior experience. Ask anyone though who knew me then and they would tell you that I was a gentle person. I don’t like confrontation and until I had to overcome my illness and really learn what fighting was about I would avoid it even if it meant getting my ass handed to me.

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it?

    I have two nick names.  I was given one by my friends at WesternMassMMA.com when I joined them.  Jeremy and Travis began calling me “The Artist”.  I believe it is because I write well, but you would have to ask them.  It may be because I could paint your face red.  Either way I like it for the site.  My other nick name was given to me by my wife and it will be the one I use in my upcoming bout.  She calls me “The Wild Ginger”.  I’ll leave you to figure it out, but rest assured whatever you call me before the fight you will be calling me “The Winner” afterwards.

4. Can you tell us something about your supporters and why they believe you should be a Mixed Martial Artist?

     Well I can try.  I have been following the sport for many years now and extremely humbled by the varieties of people I meet on an ongoing basis.  First impressions are huge to me and I could say that despite the fact that I have been burned by many many people over the years I am still loyal to many of them.  I believe that one is not a bad person until they do something truly bad.  My supporters are a reflection of myself.  I am human and prone to errors.  I make them every day in judgments and actions.  I embrace these things because they help redefine me to make me better.  The men, women, and children that motivate me, that truly support me and my efforts, have my unconditional love and mutual support.  There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for those select few and I know they would say the same.  Fighting isn’t for everyone and I think that is important to point out.  Not every one of my supporters supports my decision to fight a physical test in a cage, but they understand that it is a goal and a statement that I’ve been preparing myself to make since I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease.  I want to bring my fight into the cage so I can conquer the fears and the doubts I have about my life and what it may bring in the future as the disease spreads and my age steals my abilities to keep it under control.  Barriers need to be broken and I will do this every day for the rest of my life.

5.  What does family think of your passion for combat sports?  Do you have children?  Are they involved in the martial arts?  Do you have a spouse or significant other?  What role do they play in helping you prepare for combat?  

     My family runs the gamut in opinions.  Most are excited to see one of their own be in a cage like a UFC fighter.  Some are terrified that something horrible will happen to me.  Both are fine with me because it gets me amped, but reminds me how much I am loved. 

I do have children.  I have three.  One son, an 12 year old boy, unfortunately he was torn from my life when he was only one.  His mother and I were sweet hearts and dated childishly when I was 20.  I moved to Arkansas during her pregnancy which she hid from me.  I was living there when an adoption agency contacted me to test for paternity.  Turns out he was mine and I moved back to MA to be in his life whatever in any way possible.  He was 6 months old at the time that I first saw him.  He is a beautiful boy with blue eyes, blonde hair, and a huge ear to ear grin.  He was starting to crawl, but could really only get around by scooting on his tummy backwards the first time I saw him.  He was in foster care because his mother abandoned him in a shelter for battered women.  It seems as though she fell for the wrong guy and he was abusive.  She would later tell me that she was seeing me on the side while she was actually committed to him.  Odd how life works.  Long story short I had no money and my mother who is my only surviving parent was not willing to help me get custody of him.  I had to say goodbye to my little boy.  I hope someday he will know me, but until that happens I will remember him as the little blonde that came from me.  His name was Zander Corey, she named him after her abuser.  His adopted parents renamed him Joshua Allen.  I just call him my angel and hope that he is happy and healthy wherever he lives now.

    I am so lucky though because I also have been a step-father to two gorgeous girls for the last 12 years.  My sixteen year old is the spark that never seems to diminish.  She is a natural musician who has taught herself to play the guitar.  She’s a gamer and loves to shoot things.  Her nerd boyfriend is like the luckiest geek in the whole world because when I say geek I mean zitty, scrawny, high pitched voice, awkward silence kinda geek and she is beautiful, friendly, well spoken, fit, and loyal.  She is in school learning to program websites and video games at the local Voc High School.  Her goals are to be a CSI photographer and video game programmer.  Her sister is 19 and has a way with animals.  Although she and I are very different and hardly see eye to eye I love how she is no one’s bitch.  She has an attitude so large that it sometimes gets between us, but never for very long.  They both love MMA and I hope they will find time in their busy schedules to come cheer me on.  Neither girl is involved in Martial Arts now, but Avery did try Tae Kwon Do briefly.  They’d rather be riding horses.

     I am married.  We are two very different people though.  Angela’s support comes in many forms, but the best is when she plays tough guy.  Sometimes I need to be reminded that my needs aren’t the only ones that matter.  

My favorite photo of all time.  I took this with my Moto Razor flip phone back in 2002.

 

7.  What’s your favorite part about competition?

     I love cheering on a good fight.  I love the nights that my team goes head to head with each other in our gym on our mats and I get to just let it all out.  Egging on the guy on the top and pushing the guy on the bottom.  I love when I can’t hear myself think during these times because everyone is yelling some instruction from one vantage point or another.  To me competition is just another word for team building.  I see it as necessary.  I hope I can compete a long time.

8.  If you had the ability to change anything about the sport what would it be?

     Huh, that’s a tough one. I think I would like to see an official database that we fighters could access.  We could see the status of our licenses and leave feedback for the commission about things that need improvement in our sport.

9.  Can you describe for us what it is like to discipline yourself as you prepare to make weight and develop or improve skill sets before fight night?  Do you feel like your team plays a significant role in that discipline?

     I have to be pretty hard on myself because Crohn’s Disease is not a joke.  The food I eat and the activity I enjoy are all dictated by this illness.  In some ways I think it makes training easier because I can’t cheat.  Cheating only ends in disaster.   A big wet, smelly disaster.  Realistically though I have to say that I enjoy the motivation it gives me.  Instead of being a reason to cry and whine it has been a reason to strive and excel.  For this fight I am concentrating on staying at a stable weight until the last week of training.  I have to consume more nutrients more often as the training intensifies which is a challenge.  It has to come out at some point and can really screw up a training day if I am not paying attention.  I am working on a few new skill sets, but mostly I will rely on those that I am able to execute without thinking about.  My team is everything.  If they want to be a part of the victory they know I have to be ready.   

10.  In your time as a competitor what stands out to you most when a promotion offers you a bout?  Have you ever turned down a potential match?  If so why?  Could you offer the up and coming combatants any advice in these situations?

    To be honest, I make no decisions about fights myself.  I leave that to my coach and friend, Jeremy Reipold.  His expert understanding of the sport allows him to make judgments that are appropriate for our team.  We actually have an agreement that he won’t tell me of any fight until he decides on one to take.  That eliminates the whole, “I won’t back down from any fight ever” syndrome that seems to hamper this sport from time to time.  Especially in the older set of fighters.  I will be able to say that as well, but I will also be able to add that it was because each fight made sense and was a smart one to fight.

    

14.  How else do you spend your time when you are not training?

     I am a part of two MMA centric operations.  WesternMassMMA.com was founded by Travis Sinclair and Jeremy Reipold back in 2009.  In 2010 I was asked to join the team and create a brand new site that is very close to the one we use today.  It has been a great experience that has let me capitalize on all my strengths.  I love to be around so many dedicated people at all the events we attend.  It also allows me to show all my weaknesses though.  Like my uncanny ability to piss off perfect strangers in 50 words or less.  I have also been fortunate in finding a home for my Ravenous family and that was the beginning of my second project, The Web MMA Training Center.  I am the gym manager and an instructor.  Neither projects pay me a salary, but they are self sustaining and allow us to enjoy very important experiences within the realm of extreme combat sports.

 

I want to close this interview out by saying thank you to my wife Angela, my coaches Jeremy Riepold, Todd Selva,  Charles Garbiel, and Estelle Bonachetto.  Without your patience and your guidance I would be a very sick man who would find very little joy in his life.  You are my guardian angels and I won’t ever forget it.

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Featured Fighter: Mike Flores

Mike Flores
Age:25
Height: 4’11”
Fight weight: 125 lbs.
Fight record: 4-0-1
Born in Hartford Ct,  (live in Enfield Ct.)

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??
I got in to MMA when I was 19. I started it cuz well I always had a thing for fighting… I guess it started in high school with street fights. Ill be honest I was a little shithead back then, but I figured, ” what the hell I could do that”.. so I joined Lysak’s in Enfield. You learn quickly what the sport is about and I really fell for the sport. I trained literally just about everyday it was like something new everyday. So then at about a year and a half I had my fist fight. I  was training at Dog Pound with Elias Rivera and Frank Latina at that time. I Stayed with them for a year or so then they closed down. I had 2 fights with them and then Frank told me about Silver Dragon. I trained there for 2 yrs and had 3 fights under Master Raven and Keith Gordan. Keith and Raven were nooo joke…. I miss those days,  I wish Silver Dragon was still around. Then I got into a car accident and was out of the game for a few years, then came back training under AMAA/Gladiator BJJ where I had one fight. Doing my own thing now,with reliable friends who are like family, to help train for this fight cuz I’m kinda on a budget with this move.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?
Nothing prior to Lysak’s.

3. What’s you nickname, how did you get it?
The nick name Spidermonkey was given to me by Frank and Elias because a few days after I started training there Frank and I were grappleing and I went from being on bottom to taking his back,  to guillotine,  really fast! He was like “WTF”??,  and cuz I was so quick and stuck to the back, I was like a spider monkey. Personally, I hated it at first, but it is what it is, and dont mind it one bit now.

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport?
My ultimate goal in this sport is to be the best. I still have alot of mental training to do, but I will make it to the UFC, with the 125lb class. The emotional attachment and drive it gives me is an amazing feeling. Not so much to prove it to others but to prove it to myself…. you are what you make of yourself.

5. What do you think about your next opponent?
 My next opponent is Robbie Leroux. I have tons and tons of respect for him, he fights for our country and is a family man and deserves nothing but credit. But, we both have the same thing on our mind,  do what it takes to win! He’s a wrestler who grinds dudes out, but my mentality is kill mode! I will never be scared, back down, or quit. He’s in my way,  I wanna stay pretty,  and wont take a loss.

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished?
 I won already. Knock out 1st round.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?
 I walk around at 130, never weigh more than 135… thats when I’m fat or lifting. Cutting weight is all in my diet.

8. What’s your favorite part about fighting?
 The rush. You ever go really fast in a car and stick your head out the window and try and breathe? It’s like that when I fight,  I love it!

9. What’s the worst part about fighting?
 The worst part for me is waiting in the locker room before a fight. I hate waiting, seeing fighters come and go,  I wish I could be alone. That, and sacrafice… alot of people dont understand that its more than training5-6 days, You give up a lot. The dedicated fighters know what I’m talking about.

10. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?
 Chris Cole would be next on my list if I was staying.

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?
 Speed and power.

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??
 Twix and Kit-Kats…haha, I got a sweet tooth.

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA??
 Having 2- 12sec KO’s is pretty straight, but honestly, what I will never forget is watching my brother Tim fight. I trained him for it, and it being his first fight and all and having alot kinda go out the window right away… (hah). To see him give up 25lbs and take a figth on that short notice, and want that fight, was awsome! He put it on the line, and to keep on fighting like he did, I could not be anymore proud of him. He fought and fought, I know he dug deep, and that feeling win or lose was amazing! Can’t wait to see him fighting at his actual weight, that is my best moment yet.

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training??
 When I’m not training, I try and be outdoors, hiking in the woods and taking picture. I have an inner hippie, and love being in that enviornment. I used to ride BMX, so I try and do that when I can, but not so much lately. I also love fishing with friends.

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting??
 Flooring… I’ve done it for years, all types. Weird how the short kid does flooring, how ironic.

I would like to thank my brother Tim, Shaun, Daylin, Kieth Gordan, his son Kieth jr., Frank Latina, Mike Cerrone, Master Raven, Brian Jones, my gf Vanessa for putting up with it all, ha, Paul V, Dave, my boys with Livin’ The Life clothing co. and everyone of my friends and family who believes, helps, and supports me through thick and thin… you know who you are. And you westernmassmma for giving me this opportunity Thanks. See you June 2nd. Dont Blink!!!

We would like to thank Mike Spidermonkey Flores for taking the time to do a Featured Fighter!! It’s great to see the 125lb division continueing to grow in New England and beyond, so guys like Mike, (who for years had to fight at higher weights), can finally get good match-ups! We wish you the best in this upcoming fight, and on your upcoming move!! See you at Mohegan Sun Casino, for Reality Fighting, Saturday June 2!!

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Featured Fighter: Peggy "The DayWalker" Morgan

Name: Peggy Morgan
Age: 30
Height: 6’1”
Fight Weight: 135
School: Triumph BJJ
Record: MMA Amateur 2-0; Pro 0-0
City/State Born: Biloxi, Mississippi
Achievements: list any kickboxing, mauy thai, boxing, nagas, any type of awards. New England Golden Glove Champion, 2nd Place at Golden Glove Nationals, Second Place at P.A.L. Nationals, Second Place at U.S.A. Boxing Nationals, Third Place Savate World Championships. A couple of weeks ago I placed first in the intermediate division at NAGA.

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??



I started training at Triumph a little over a year ago. I have a background in boxing and kickboxing, and I have many amateur fights in both. I stopped boxing in 2008. After I had my son, I decided I wanted to start training again just to get back in shape. I really didn’t intend to start fighting and I definitely didn’t plan to fight MMA because I thought it was too manly. I mean, boxing is one thing, but MMA is something else. After a few months of hanging around Triumph, though, I started getting the bug to get back in and fight so I told John Fain that I wanted to take an MMA fight as soon as I earned my blue belt. It was kind of an arbitrary goal, but I felt like I didn’t want to get in the cage unless I felt confident that I had some ground game.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?


I boxed for about five years and was ranked second in the country as a 152 lb. amateur for three years.

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it?

My nickname is “The Daywalker.” It’s kind of a silly thing. The guys kept calling me a ginger and I’d always say, “I’m not a ginger, I’m a daywalker” because of the ginger/daywalker episode of Southpark. In case you haven’t seen that particular episode, the distinction between gingers and daywalkers is that gingers have freckles and daywalkers don’t. I have reddish hair but no freckles, so obviously I’m just a daywalker. Anyway, Orto decided it sounded pretty tough because of Blade and asked that I be announced as “The Daywalker” at my first fight, and it stuck.

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport?

I want to take this as far as I can. I tend to set immediate goals. Get better every day and grow with every fight. Ultimately, I’d like to end up at the top

5. What do you think about your next opponent?

Kaline is a tough girl. She has a nasty overhand right and a decent ground game.

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished?

There are so many ways this fight can go. I’m a well-rounded fighter, confident on my feet and on the ground. I can tell you that it’s going to be an exciting fight. I anticipate two things: there will be blood and my hand will be raised at the end of the fight.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?

I walk around at 155 and I fight at 135, so it’s about a 20 pound cut. I try to do as much as I can through diet leading up to the fight and then cut the rest in the sauna.

8. What’s your favorite part about fighting?

My favorite thing about fighting is that it constantly challenges me. I get bored pretty easily. I never get bored of training or fighting. There are so many different aspects of MMA, both mental and physical, and there’s always something that needs to be strengthened or developed. I wake up every day with a sense of purpose, and I like that.

9. What’s the worst part about fighting?

I think most fighters would agree that the worst part about fighting is the weight cut. It’s really no fun.

10. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?

One fight at a time. Eventually I’d like to be in a position to fight at the top.

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights?

My reach, obviously. Also my mental and physical toughness.

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight??

Peanut butter.

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA??

Winning my first fight.

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training??

When I’m not training I’m usually hanging out with my two and a half year old son or out with friends.

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting?

Outside of fighting I’m a little bit of a lost soul. I have a Master’s degree in Literature that I have no idea what to do with. I was an adjunct college prof for a couple of years, but the pay is pretty lousy and it’s not the most stable job. Recently I’ve been working part-time as a secretary, but I’m looking to move on from that, too. I’m thinking about bar tending and fighting.

I can’t say enough about my team. Triumph is home to an awesome group of people – super supportive and genuinely committed to each others’ success. John Fain is an amazing instructor and coach, John Ortolani has done a lot to help me prepare for this fight, Chuck O’Neil has always been a huge help with training and diet, and Cody Anderson is the best abusive little brother a girl could have. There are many people I’m not naming who have helped me a lot and whom I adore, but I don’t want to turn this into a lame Oscar speech.

Thanks for taking the time to fill this out Peggy.  Peggy has a big fight this weekend at Mohegan Sun for Reality Fighting against Kaline Medeiros.  For those that know her, make sure you buy your tickets from her. We wish her the best of luck.  I, personally haven’t seen her fight but I hope to do so real soon!  She is one tough momma you don’t want to mess with!

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Featured Fighter: Leon Campbell

Name: Leon Campbell
Age: 30
Height: 5’11
Fight Weight: 145lbs
School: Sityodtong
Record: MMA 3-0
City/State Born: Malden, Mass
Achievements: list any kickboxing, Mauy Thai, boxing, nagas, any type of awards.

1. When and Why did you get into MMA??

I am a muay thai fighter through and through…. I transitioned to MMA because I was tired of the rarity of Muay Thai events. Sometimes I would go a year without a fight.

2. Do you have a background in martial arts, boxing , wrestling etc?

 When I was younger I dabbled in the typical kids martial arts but never took any of it serious. In my teens I took Caporiera for a couple years and boxed but I always loved traditional Muay Thai. I used to watch Thai movies and fights with my father, along with badass Bruce Lee movies.

3. What’s your nickname, how did you get it? 

I don’t really have a fight name but around the gym I am known as “Negrodamus” from the “Chappelle Show”. One night while watching the UFC with my team I called the outcome of every fight that night! But please feel free to give me one if you would like!

4. What are your ultimate goals in the sport? 

My goal is to really just travel the world and fight in other countries. I’ve also wanted to compete in Japan for K-1!

5. What do you think about your next opponent? 

Soap Am is my next opponent and I have a huge amount of respect for him. I’m actually a fan of his and find it an honor to compete against him.

6. How do you see the fight going/being finished? 

I see the fight being amazing. As far as the finish…with my hand held high.

7. What weight do you walk at/how much do you cut to fight?

 I like to walk around 165 lbs at most. I hate big cuts. My girlfriend adjusts my diet accordingly (makes me eat my veggies) so I drop down to 150lbs before I start the actual cut!

8. What’s your favorite part about fighting?

 My favorite part about fighting is the physical and mental challenge. It also gives me an excuse to wear really short shorts in public!

9. What’s the worst part about fighting?

 The night before weigh in!

10. Anyone locally or in the big’s that you really would love to fight, and why?

 I don’t really have a hit list but anyone that agrees to fight me.

11. What do you feel is your best weapon in your fights? 

My best weapon in my fight is my corner. They are all professionals in every sense of the word. They know what its like in the cage and their knowledge is the biggest asset in my fights. Tied for second is my ability to remain calm and my striking skills!

12. What is your favorite foods that you miss while cutting weight?? 

I generally eat healthy but I enjoy pizza, burgers, and most importantly CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES (soft bake).

13. What is your most memorable moment to date in MMA?? 

Seeing my father at my debut and him saying how pround he was of me!

14. How else do you spend your time when you are not training?? 

Not training?? What is that?? I’m simple…I enjoy spending time with those I love and finding great places to eat!

15. What do you do for a living besides fighting?? 

Aside from fighting, I work for Anheuser Busch, and at a bar as security and bar back on weekends.

I’d like to take this chance to thank my team (Sityodtong), my family, my girl friend, and the Dellagrotte family. Without any of them, I wouldn’t be who and where I am today. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. R.I.P. Kru Eric Armington….

–Thanks Leon for taking the time.  Leon is a very humbled fighter and works hard at the sport of mma.  As I am sure you have all read he is fighting on May 20th against Team Pradal Serey’s Soap Am for Premier FC.  Leon is 3-0 and is facing Soap who is 2-0.  This is going to be an awesome fight you won’t want to miss so get your tickets by clicking here.  Now I want to make sure everyone knows that the gold tickets which are front row and all you can eat and drink is now $75 dollars.  Also the doors open at 11am and the fights start around 12.  Keep checking the site for the full card and my teaser which will be sometime next week! As for a nickname for Leon, I am thinking Leon “Boomstick” Campbell from Evil Dead series and the  star is Bruce Campbell.  What do you think???
 

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