Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Cheyanne Vlismas Returns to the Fight Capital this Friday
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Fighter Babe Shannon Sinn Defends her Belt this Saturday
Monday, January 20, 2014
Judoka Babe Hannah Martin Returns to Competition this Weekend
How did you get involved in Judo and how long have you been training?
-My dad wanted my younger brother to do judo, I begged him to let me go watch one night and the instructor convinced my dad to let me put a gi on. Once I stepped foot on the tatami I instantly fell in love with everything about the sport. I was 8 years old, so I have been doing this sport for 17 years!
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I am currently training at the Jason Morris Judo Center located in Glenville, New York. My coach, Jason Morris is 4 time Olympian and won the silver medal at the ’92 Olympics.
-My typical training week consists of 6 days of Judo; each session is 2 hours long. Sometimes I practice twice a day, depending on what competitions I have coming up. I also strength train and do cardio circuits 3 to 4 times a week. I always make sure that I try to get two work-outs in a day, sometimes three.
Tell us about your upcoming competition tour, the format and where it takes place?
-My first competitive tour of the 2014 season is going to be in Europe. I am going to spend three weeks in Europe, competing and training. The first tournament is in Paris, France. The tournament is a one day event, and it is set up like a wrestling tournament. There is a draw, and they seed the top 8 athletes in each weight division. After Paris I will be going to Rome, Italy and then Dusseldorf, Germany.
What has been your best experience as a Judoka?
-My best experience would have to be winning a bronze medal in Abu Dhabi this past November. I injured my back really badly the week before I was supposed to leave, it was so bad I could barely walk and I could not train. I was going to pull out of the tournament because of the injury but I already spent the money to compete and it was going to be my last tournament of 2013 so I thought, just show up and maybe you can come home with a few wins. I came home with a bronze medal and it was one of the most amazing feelings in the world.
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in Judo?
-Out of all the martial arts I think Judo is a great sport for women. Judo is all about technique and finesse and using another person’s body weight against themselves. It is great for self- defense, it’s a good workout and you also get the chance to kick someone’s ass either by throwing them, choking or arm bar submission!
Any plans to cross over to MMA in the future?
-Yes.
Who are your favorite Judoka's and MMA fighters?
-My favorite Judoka’s are Jason Morris and Karoi Matsumoto (JPN). My favorite MMA fighters are BJ Penn, Anderson Silva and of course Ronda Rousey.
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-I try to spend most of my time outdoors (in the summer) and in the wintertime you will find me snuggled under a blanket drinking hot coffee watching my favorite shows. I also like reading and writing.
For those who will inquire we have a couple questions for the male readership as well.
What do you look for in a guy?
-Personality, you need to be funny, smart, and have specific goals and motivation to work towards them. And of course a nice smile, pretty eyes and a sexy six pack.
What are your turn-ons?
-Muscular back and shoulders, humor, and someone that can hold a conversation.
What are your turnoffs?
-Bad hygiene.
What would you say is your best feature?
-My eyes and legs.
Lastly before we let you go we would love to hear about your future plans and let you send some shout outs.
Any future plans or dreams?
-To be world champion and Olympic medalist.
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-Huge Shout out to the Jason Morris Judo Center (JMJC).
Thank you very much for your time Hannah and good luck on the upcoming tour. Also, thank you to Hannah and Lou Digesare of realjudo.net for sharing the great pictures with us. We will definitely be watching your journey to the 2016 Olympic Games and your future in MMA. For more on Hannah Martin please visit her Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Sexy Sunday from Crystal Augusta
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Gina Carano Goes Rogue
In 2009 former MMA starlet Gina Carano fought a Cyborg and now she is back with a television appearance as a rogue Cyborg cop on the show Almost Human. Watch the sneak peek above and then tune in to Fox on Monday, February 3rd at 8pm ET to watch the full episode.
Friday, January 17, 2014
Foxy Friday from Felice Herrig
While we eagerly await for TUF 20 to begin Felice recently teamed up for a sexy photo shoot captured by none other than MMA photographer Tracy Lee accompanied by an interview from sports personality Helen Mei. Click here to read about the phone call Felice originally ignored that eventually changed her life and for the rest of the sexy pictures we are still gawking at.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Jessica Aguilar Fights for the Inaugural WSOF Strawweight Title this Saturday
How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-December 2005 I signed up at a local gym called Punch Fitness that also happened to offer Boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes, a new challenge, one that gave me a special rush. Just one month into my new BJJ training, the class instructor convinced me to compete in a regional North American Grappling Association (NAGA) tournament. I went on to win 1st place in my division. I was pumped and could not wait for the next tournament but was disappointed to learn that the woman's division was not included. As luck would have it, a local MMA professional fight promotion just lost one of their female fighters and needed a quick replacement to fight against Lisa Ward who was then a top 10 world ranked female professional fighter. I immediately sought out the opportunity, even though my 2 months of total BJJ experience was nothing compared to Lisa Ward's many years of professional fighting and her 2 time FILA World Grappling Championships. And conventional wisdom was right, I lost my first MMA fight which I had a week to prepare for, but more importantly I proved to the world that I was the real deal and with just a few months of BJJ and a week of MMA experience that I could very effectively compete at a world elite level. During the rounds of battle my heart and determination won me countless fans as I refused to tap out, even when my arm was nearly broken. My new challenge then was how to become a world MMA Champion? I was now 110% committed to becoming the best. Fight promoters were seeking me out and then some very good fortune came my way. Jen Boronico, a dear girl friend from one of the gyms I trained at also happened to train BJJ. Jen gave me a simple message, "if you want to be the best you need to train with the best" and introduced me to American Top Team, the single largest and best known professional MMA fighter gym on the planet. I was apprehensively welcomed, as becoming a true professional MMA fighter takes years of training starting often at very early childhood ages. So the likely hood of me becoming a true highly skilled MMA fighter would be a huge long shot, especially considering 1st (and perpetual) impression with everyone in life is that I am the ultimate girl next door, just too nice to be a "fighter". But, based upon my recommendations and sincerity, I was given the chance to prove that I was capable of training at ATT as a professional fighter. No one has ever looked back :)
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I train out of American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Florida. I train 6 days a week 5 to 8 hours a day with Sundays off.
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-My upcoming fight is for WSOF 8 on January 18th at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida against Alida Gray.
Do you have any fight day rituals or superstitions?
-My fight rituals include a prayer followed by a meditation breathing warm up that I have done since the beginning of my career and has worked for me!
What is your best experience as a fighter? What is your worst?
-The highlights of my career was meeting one of my idols Megumi Fujii in Vancouver, Canada and when I started traveling to other countries to do what I love to do which was 2007 for Bodog! The worst is not fighting enough.
If you could have one dream fight with anyone, who would it be and why?
-My dream fight all ready happened and twice which was with my idol Megumi Fujii and the reason it was my dream fight was because she's The Woman and she was the best and will remain one of the best of all times!!
What or who are your inspirations in MMA and life?
-My Inspiration in MMA is my master Ricardo Liborio and in life my mother.
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-Gsp, Anderson Silva, Thiago Alves and Jose Aldo.
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-Train and work hard, be a good person, never quit no matter the obstacles, do right and always "Smile & Believe".
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-With family and friends and traveling!
Any future plans or dreams?
-To continue rising to the top.
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-I want to thank God, my family, friends, team (American Top Team), media, fans, sponsors (Everlast Worldwide, Garden Of Life, Tommie Copper, Fuel Foods FL, DonkeeBoy, Jawzz, Boca Tanning Club) and the WSOF for believing in me.
Thank you very much for your time Jessica. It was an honor and good luck on fight night! Click here to purchase tickets to Jessica’s fight or tune into NBC Sports starting at 9 PM ET to watch live. For more on Jessica Aguilar please visit her website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube pages.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Fighter Babe Kristi Lopez Makes her Pro Debut this Saturday
How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-I started training MMA mostly with grappling about 5 years ago in Puerto Rico with a team called Puerto Rico Vale Tudo. I had just finished college with my first bachelor’s degree in Teledramatic Arts and was looking for an adventure and to get back into the medical field. I previously was an ocean lifeguard for 8 years and missed it. I then moved to Puerto Rico for two years and got my nursing degree there. I had always wanted to fight or box. My dad and my brothers were all boxers. Growing up I played other sports. I swam and received a water polo scholarship to Cal State Monterey Bay so my dedication went there. But the second I started MMA I knew it was what I had been looking for my entire life.
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-I train with Eddie Bravo at 10th Planet Jiu-jitsu at Tapout DTLA and with Master Rafael Cordiero at Kings MMA in Huntington Beach. I honestly couldn’t be luckier with training at those two gyms. I am so happy there and with my coaches, friends and training partners. A week for me is crazy! A LOT of driving and rushing to get it all in but it’s worth it! I train at Kings MMA 3 times a week but I live in Los Angeles and work even farther away so it’s a lot of driving! I train with Eddie and 10th Planet a couple times a week. I do strength and conditioning with my coach, Matt Olaya twice a week. In addition to work I also squeeze in running and yoga.
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-I’m fighting on January 18th at the Sycuan Casino in El Cajon, California for Cali Cage Wars, Gladiator Challenge. My opponent is Tyra Parker and it should be a great badass fight.
What is your best experience as a fighter? What is your worst?
-My best experience as a fighter is winning and seeing the look on my dad’s face and family’s faces after I win! But mostly the journey, the places I have seen and gone to, people and friends I have met is what makes this warrior’s life and journey so special. I always say I am living my dream while pursuing it. The best feeling is knowing I live a happy, untamed, fulfilled life and I have never held back from attacking my dreams and life with everything I got.
-I wouldn’t say I have a worst experience because all of those experiences I have learned from and turned into a positive. Painful lessons teach us the most but you have to have the outlook, patience and determination to find the positive. The worst thing you can ever do in life is to feel sorry for yourself. Without darkness we would never appreciate a sunrise or the light. Always look for the positive!
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-Start training today! If you are not sure what to do just start taking a martial arts class. Any type of action is better than none. Once you start the doors will begin to open. Work hard, earn respect and don’t let anyone bully you or make you feel inferior in training. Everyone started somewhere without knowing what to do. Know that fear and frustration is natural but don’t let it hold you back. Doing something while you are unsure or afraid is what will set you apart from the rest of the world and those who are not really living. If you are comfortable and feel safe all the time then you are not growing spiritually. Respect yourself, your teachers and training partners. No drama in the gym. Make it your sanctuary from the drama of everyday life. Martial arts will change your life, I promise. Even if you never fight, you will be amazed at what you learn about yourself and life. Not only that, you will make a lot of amazing friends.
What or who are your inspirations in MMA and life?
-My family is my biggest inspiration and I could talk for hours about how much I love them and how proud I am of them. My dad is the hardest working most honorable man I have ever known. From him I’ve learned what family and selfless sacrifice is. Not only that, he is one hell of a warrior and fighter. He can still move around with the best of em! My mom is a great supporter too and always there for some “girl talk’. She has always been the greatest loving mom. She's got my back! My brothers Matthew, Sean and Evan have given me unconditional support and love. My older bro Matthew is a hero with a couple medals of valor and when I hear about his day and what he goes through I know I can do anything. My talented bro Evan helps me with a lot of my fights and game plans even though he is busying pursuing his dreams of music. I always tell him he is also my cornerman in life. He is an amazing musical artist but always there for me and ready to help me with whatever I need. Listen to his music at www.evanlopez.com! My Aunt Sue was also someone who was always there for me even when she was going through hard times and I’m always grateful for her love. I have a lot of family and friends in the military and law enforcement and they always have my gratitude and respect. I always say that a lot of people are fighters even though they don’t ever get into the cage and my family is no exception to that and people who overcome everything and are still happy, loving and positive are the most inspirational to me!
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-All the guy and girl MMA fighters at my gyms Kings MMA and 10th Planet! They always take the time to help and support! The first MMA girl fighter I ever saw was Gina Carano so she is always someone I thought was inspiring. Lyoto Machida has always been a favorite of mine for his epic style and positive warrior attitude. Rampage is always entertaining. Liz Carmouche is another awesome fighter and wow wee she hits hard! I trained with her once and she took the time to show me some moves and answer my questions so I always support and root her on! I love watching Cris “Cyborg” Santos fight and her training videos are so insane!
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-I love the beach, surfing, laying out, and bonfires! I love camping, nature, hiking and road trips. I love to have fun. I’m an amusement park fan especially during Halloween; I love Disneyland, Magic Mountain and roller coasters! I like to relax, spa, mani-pedi time with my girls, hang out with my family and friends. I am always down to try new things. My favorite people are the ones that are mischievous and co-conspirators with me in having fun! I don’t ever really go out but when I do I like to dance and cause some ruckus!
For those who will inquire we have a couple questions for the male readership as well.
Are you single?
-It’s complicated but isn’t it always? :)
What do you look for in a guy?
-I like a man that is respectful, happy, honest, family-oriented, fun, athletic, loyal, loving, driven and passionate. I like a strong but still sweet badass with ambition but not a bad boy! There is a huge difference between the two. I can’t stand disrespectful or manipulative people in general. I think it’s cool when a guy is old school and chivalry is not dead! Especially when it’s coming from a tough dude. :)
What would you say is your best feature?
-My personality? ;-) I don’t know. I guess I get some compliments from guys on my eyes, smile and tan. My tan I give credit to my brown Puerto Rican side and that I love being outside.
Lastly before we let you go we would love to hear about your future plans and let you send some shout outs.
Any future plans or dreams?
-I plan to fight at 115 hopefully sometime in March and try out for The Ultimate Fighter in April. After that, become the champ! Get the belt. I want to do everything I can to inspire and help the future of the sport for women and girls of all ages. Continue to be happy in my journey of life and to always keep learning, growing and pursuing all my dreams with reckless abandonment!
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-I have to thank my family first, without them I would be nothing! They inspire and help me so much, all of them! Big thanks to Eddie Bravo and my family at 10th Planet for helping me for so long. Master Rafael Cordiero and my Kings MMA family for welcoming me last year with open arms and all my teammates there. Thanks to my strength and conditioning coach Matt Olaya of M80 roller. Thanks to Epok Agency for the support. Shout out to Jacob from American Liberty Bail Bonds, 1-888-bailguy for the continued love and support. My Furious brand family, you guys are so sweet and have the sickest coolest shirts. Check out EvanLopez.com and download some cool music, you won’t regret it! Thanks to Toots Skin Savants, Helmer Guidance and Perfectfitz for the support!
Thank you very much for your time Kristi and good luck on fight night! For more on Kristi Lopez please visit her website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Fighter Babe Tabitha Patterson is Ready to Throw Down this Saturday
How did you get involved in MMA and how long have you been training?
-A friend of mine introduced to me to MMA and I fell in love right away. I gave up cheerleading at a division II college for MMA. I have been training a little over a year now.
Where are you currently training, and what's a typical training week like for you?
-Most weeks I train only 3 times a week with our team but when it gets close to fight week I try to train every day.
Tell us about your upcoming fight, who you're fighting and where?
-My next fight is in Carthage, Missouri. I will be fighting Blaire Patton for the 135lb belt. It will be for Blackout Fighting Championships. Then only 12 days later I will be fighting on our own Gladiator Fighting Association in Topeka, Kansas. I will be fighting Pam Sorenson and it will also be for a belt!
What is your best experience as a fighter? What is your worst?
-The best experience that I have had has a fighter is losing. It really helps me know what I need to work on and what I need to do to push myself. The worst experience would have been when I went to Vegas to fight Marina Shafir. It wasn't the loss that bothered me but that I didn't get the chance to really show what I am capable of doing.
What advice would you give to other women who are reading this interview and want to get started in MMA?
-The best advice that I could give to women is never give up. It is hard work and dedication but at the end of the day you feel better about yourself. For those who want to start MMA and haven't, just find a gym, get in there and try your best. With MMA you either love it or you hate it.
Who are your favorite MMA fighters?
-I have a few favorite fighters. I love watching Cris Cyborg fight and I want to fight with the same aggression and power she has. I am a big fan of Tecia Torres. I can’t forget about the man who got me hooked on watching the UFC, Chuck Liddell. I love the way that man fought.
How do you enjoy your free time when not training or fighting?
-In my free time I love to hang out with my friends and family, play poker and watch whatever game is on TV. I also enjoy going dancing.
For those who will inquire we have a couple questions for the male readership as well.
Are you single?
-Sorry men but I am married.
What do you look for in a guy?
-I love men who are athletic, ambitious, smart and funny. My man is all of those and more.
What are your turn-ons?
-When a man smells good and is built.
What are your turnoffs?
-Smoking cigarettes and can’t handle their alcohol.
Lastly before we let you go we would love to hear about your future plans and let you send some shout outs.
Any future plans or dreams?
-My plan is to make my pro debut this year for Invicta FC. Then try my best to fight in the UFC. With hard work and dedication I WILL DO IT!
Any shout outs you would like to make?
-My shout outs would be to my supporting Husband and my coach Scott Heston. Also Mike Juarez and the rest of my teammates. To Andy Harris for always getting me to practice when I need the ride. A big shout out to Brian's Lawn & Landscape, LLC.
Thank you very much for your time and good luck on fight night Tabitha! Click here to purchase tickets or click here to purchase the iPPV for Blackout FC. Send your shout outs to Tabitha Patterson on Facebook and Twitter.
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