How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-I got involved in jiu-jitsu and kickboxing about six years ago. I had seen some matches and it looked interesting. I have always played sports, so I was looking for some form of competition to get into.
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I currently train at Reign Training Center, Kings MMA and Checkmat BJJ. I also do strength and conditioning at Innovative Results. I train six days a week whether I have a fight or not. When I am training for a fight I step it up to two and three a days.
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-My next fight is April 28th in Kansas. I am fighting Lisa Ward and we are the co-main event for Invicta FC's first show! It’s really exciting to be a part of an all women's card. I can’t wait!
What is your best experience as a fighter?
-My best experience as a fighter was from my last fight. I took a fight on about a week notice for the Shootboxing organization in Japan against their SCUP Champ RENA. It was my most challenging fight because I really didn't know the rules and it was my first time fighting abroad as well as going against a really tough opponent. It was a great experience and I am so happy and thankful for having the opportunity. I really learned a lot about myself from that fight.
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-Go for it!
What are some of the hurdles that you think Women in MMA need to overcome before Women's MMA will be considered a top level sport like Men's MMA is today?
-I think with an organization like Invicta supporting WMMA we will see much needed organization in the weight classes and consistency in competition. WMMA needs a show like Invicta to give us a platform to perform on so that we can show our hard work and talents.
What or who are your inspirations in MMA and life?
-I always look up to people that are hard workers. My coaches, teammates, friends and family inspire me to work hard and I always try to improve myself in MMA and in life. I am very fortunate to be surrounded by the people in my life.
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-I really admire the fighters from the gyms that I train at. I get to see how hard they work in training and it makes me want to work harder. Some of my favorite fighters are Mark Munoz, Jake Ellenberger, Anderson Silva and Genki Sudo to name a few.
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-In my free time I like to be outdoors and do other types of exercise. I like being at the beach, playing with my dogs, going for hikes or trying something new. I have a house that has a nice sized backyard and I spend a lot of time gardening. I love training and being active, it is important to me to maintain an active lifestyle.
Of course we have a few questions for the male readership as well.
Are you single?
-I am single.
What do you look for in a person?
-In a person, I look for someone who is patient, loyal and supportive of me and my lifestyle.
What are your turnoffs?
-People with egos are gross!
Last but not least would you like to make any shout outs?
-I want to say thank you to my coaches and teammates from Reign Training Center, Kings MMA, Black House MMA, Checkmat La Habra and Innovative Results. Everyone has always been so encouraging and positive. Everyone is really supportive I also want to say thank you to my family and friends!
It was a pleasure getting to know Jessica and really looking forward to her fight this Saturday. For the latest on Jessica you can find her on Facebook and Twitter.
Jessica Penne def. Lisa Ellis by TKO (strikes) at 2:48 of round 3.
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