How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-I started training martial arts at the age of 3. I was training Karate till 7 and Tae Kwon Do from 8-16. I love fighting and sparring and really wanted to pursue my talent. I was getting tired of the TKD and wanted to try mixed martial arts. I found a local school and started training just after turning 15 and have grown to love it. (Cheyanne is a Tae Kwon Do Black Belt and often competes in BJJ and grappling tournaments).
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I train at Gracie Tampa North on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-9:30, Fridays from 6-8 and Saturdays from 10-12:30. I am at the UFC-gym on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:15-9:30 and Sundays are optional (privates).
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-I will be fighting Ingrid Medrano, a veteran Olympic wrestler. She’s 33 with a good background in wrestling and judo. It will be a tough first fight as we are both skilled in different ways. We are the co-main event for WCFL at the down town Tampa Hilton hotel.
Being your debut MMA fight how are you feeling?
-I have met with my opponent already and we had a little altercation. I’m feeling more than ready for war!
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. And never let anyone bring you down with it.
What or who are your inspirations in MMA and life?
-I am a Ronda Rousey fan for life. She’s such an inspiration. She’s had a hard life and she never let anything get in her way of doing what she loves. And my biggest inspiration in life is myself. I am my only motivation to get up every morning and train my butt off and then go back and do it at night. I don’t believe you have to look up to someone to have to go do something. If you want something that bad you will do it yourself. I have come far in my journey with martial arts, and with my motivation and dedication I wouldn’t be where I am now.
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-Georges St-Pierre was the first person I ever watched when I turned on UFC 5 years ago. I was impressed by him and he was the one who got me more interested in the mixed martial arts. Also Junior dos Santos, the man is a machine!
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-I’m very chill, laid back type. I don’t really enjoy going out that much, occasionally yes. But when you train every day I like to have rest, movies are nice and hanging out at home with some friends. I also like hanging out with my family and my three dogs. :)
Of course we have a few questions for the male readership as well.
Are you single?
-No.
What do you look for in a guy?
-Athleticism, brains and knows how to treat a lady.
What are your turn-ons?
-A guy who trains.
What are your turnoffs?
-Street boys.
What would you say is your best feature?
-My smile.
Any future plans or dreams?
-To be the best I can.
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-Thank you to my sponsors, family, and most importantly my coach (Muay Thai). Him and his wife are family to me and push me hard every single day.
Thank you very much for your time and good luck on fight night! We would also like to wish you a very Happy 18th Birthday today Cheyanne! For more on Cheyanne Vlismas please visit her website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.
Ingrid Medrano defeated Cheyanne Vlismas via unanimous decision.
ReplyDeleteWe are very proud of Cheyanne who took on a very tough opponent for her debut. Keep up the great work Cheyanne! You have a great future ahead of you!