How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-I started off as a ring girl for Danger-Fire Promotions in my hometown of Topeka, Kansas. Through being a ring girl I got the opportunity to meet a lot of fighters and coaches. I was invited up to a gym back in 2011 and that is where I fell in love with MMA. I've been training non-stop ever since.
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I train at United Martial Sciences in Topeka, Kansas. I train basically every day of the week whether it is Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo or just some good old conditioning! I do try to take at least one day off for rest, even though I don't like to.
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-On June 22 I will be fighting for Danger-Fire Promotions in my hometown. I will be fighting Taz Smith. I don't know much about her really.
What is your best experience as a fighter? What is your worst?
-I would say my best experiences as a fighter are from the actual fights themselves regardless of a win or not. That is when you truly learn and have the opportunity to grow as both a person and a fighter. Fighting is an experience unlike any other. I can't really say I have had any bad experiences though.
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-I would just like to say MMA is an amazing sport and I really encourage people to get in to it. You have the opportunity to constantly learn and better yourself. I think if anyone is even slightly thinking about getting in to MMA they should definitely try it out. Even if they don't want to fight, it's still so much fun to just train and use it for a great total-body work out.
What or who are your inspirations in MMA and life?
-I really look up to Ronda Rousey, of course. She has broken down a lot of walls for women’s MMA. It takes a lot of courage to do something like that. I also really look up to Kayla Harrison. I hope I can be as talented as her some day.
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-My favorite fighter is Rose Namajunas. I love her personality. She is super talented and a lot of fun to watch in the cage. I also really like to watch the Diaz brothers fight. Yes, I know you're all probably rolling your eyes right now. But you can't deny they're interesting to watch!!
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-In my free time I like to just relax. I like to take a lot of naps haha! I enjoy spending as much time with my family and friends as possible, so when I'm not in the gym you can usually find me with the people I love the most!
Of course we have a few questions for the male readership as well.
Are you single?
-I am happily taken! Sorry fellas!
What do you look for in a guy?
-I like a guy that is athletic and "outdoorsy". I also like a guy that understands I need my own space! Being family-oriented is also a must.
What are your turn-ons?
-I like good humor, good looks, and good ambition. Intelligence and maturity are a big turn-on also.
What are your turnoffs?
-Being clingy, being self-centered, control freaks, and laziness. I also absolutely hate when guys treat their mothers with any form of disrespect!!
What would you say is your best feature?
-My eyes and my smile!
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-I would like to give a shout out to my coaches Shanon Woodward, Wayman Carter, and Gary Gucciano for spending time with me and helping me become a better fighter. I would also like to give a shout out to my United Martial Sciences Muay Thai family, my Ikikata Judo Club family, and of course my parents for supporting me.
Thank you very much for your time Rach and good luck on fight night! Thank you to Nexus Photography and Jerry R Chavez as well for capturing and sharing the pictures of Rach. For more on Rach please visit her on Facebook and Twitter.
Rach Wiley defeated Misty Blevins via TKO at 2:32 of round one. Misty Blevins was a replacement for Taz Smith.
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