Darrick Patrick

An Interview with Darrick Patrick (by Daniel Ryan)

Darrick Patrick is a professional human being. Known for breathing air and having the ability to process oxygen, he can be found converting levels of energy to sustain his existence. He also is the creator of the Digested Puddle project, a film excursion into sensory assault and humor. Darrick interviews pro mixed martial artists as well, along with occasional individuals from other entertainment fields. Other activities include making music, writing disturbing stories, photography, and spending time with his twin daughters.

Daniel (TFE): When did you start getting involved with all the angles in the "entertainment" aspect of things, and what did you enjoy most about these things while growing up? Any fond memories as a kid?

Darrick: The main exposure that I had as a child to various means of entertainment came from spending time with my mother, Rita Patrick. She used to book various shows in the "underground" scene around Dayton, Ohio back in the 1980s. The main venue I remember her working out of, and living above, was a spot called The Building Lounge. It was primarily an alternative spot (back when alternative literally meant the word) saturated with hardcore, punk, Hip Hop, and metal bands.

I remember always having a blast as a lil' one around all of the different people that would be at the shows. A lot of the time the people in the bands would end up staying the night upstairs at my mother's apartment. One story I recall is when the Dead Kennedys spent the night after a show. One of mom's friends had their mother staying over as well, so she woke up early and made breakfast for the band. "Dead Kennedys, wake up, it's time for breakfast. Dead Kennedys, time to get up and eat!"

Other than the spots where mom did bookings, we would also attend shows at other local venues such as Brookwood Hall (Rebos), The New Space, Canal Street Tavern, etc. as well as heading to Columbus and Cincinnati to catch bands and weird art shows. She always seemed to know everybody, whether they were in local projects or more famous acts.

During those younger days, I was also exposed to a lot of artists and writers. Mom always had cool underground comics and magazines laying around as well. Books such as Eerie, Creepy, Heavy Metal, and later on The Crow, Badger, and The Sandman. Combining that with all of the Batman, Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, and X-Men books my grandmother Nancy Walters used to get me at flea markets, my love for comic books and graphic novels was born.

I lived with my grandmother for the most part while growing up, so I would primarily get to spend time with my mother Rita on the weekends. It was either the late '80s or early '90s when mom relocated down to New Orleans. She would still come back to Dayton to stay at times, but she was mainly living in Louisiana from there on out. I lived on and off with her in New Orleans for years. The exposure to musicians, street performers, writers, dancers, and the other aspects of art and entertainment exploded in front of me.

A lot of the people we were surrounded by and going to see at shows in New Orleans were/are in bands such as Exhorder, Soilent Green, Eyehategod, Superjoint Ritual, Graveyard Rodeo, Down, Goatwhore, Crowbar, etc. In more recent years, she was exposing me to NOLA musicians and her friends such as The Pallbearers, Coco Robicheaux, The Unnaturals, and Guitar Lightnin' Lee. MC Trachiotomy is also one of her closest brothers, having known Rita for quite a long time. It was quite an experience to be exposed to the levels of reality that mom consistently had around me ever since the early '80s. I have a ton of great, hardcore stories to carry with me due to the time spent with her.

Unfortunately, my days/nights of going to shows with and meeting people through my mother are in the past now. She was diagnosed with cancer back in 2009 and left this plane of existence on April 23rd, 2010 at the age of forty-five. It never really occured to me the possibility of her being gone so soon. Rita Lynne Patrick opened my eyes and mind to a side of life most children don't get the opportunity to see in a "normal" parental situation. I love and miss that woman. What she showed me will never be taken for granted.

Daniel (TFE): I see you interview MMA superstars of all brands and organizations, how is that? Who can you name as being one of your favorite interviewees?

Darrick: I was contacted by a guy who had a social networking site back in 2006 and he asked me to be a partner, mainly acting as the face for the website who provided entertainment and fresh ideas. I agreed and began plugging away on the site. I had also been a fan of mixed martial arts for quite some time and began inviting various professional fighters to have profiles at our site.

In March of 2007, it dawned on me to start interviewing some of the fighters to feature on the front page of the website. I began with a fighter named Lee Shone and followed up with Elvis Sinosic, Roxanne Modafferi, James Lee, Andrew Chappelle, Jeremy Jackson, Richard Montoya, Brad Dillon, Ray Elbe, and Benji Radach for 2007 (as well as comic book writer/artists David Mack and Mickmo).

The social networking site fizzled out early in 2008 when the fellow I was working with allowed the server to go down several times. We pulled the plug on that project and went our separate ways. The interviews already had a bit of an audience though, so I decided to continue contacting individuals (primarily fighters) to interview. That's when I really started cranking them out.

A website called www.Nokaut.com contacted me about posting my work in their interview section, which provided a quality area to showcase the pieces to a MMA audience. Since then, I've also had my interviews picked up by a few other sites. To this date, it's all been contribution material. I haven't ever been paid for any of my mixed martial arts work, so I just count it as a glorified hobby. I hope to possibly turn it into a paying gig at some point, but for now I just enjoy bringing whatever extra attention I can to the various individuals within the sport.

As for one of my favorite interviewees within MMA, I'd have to say Boban Simic. All of the different people I do interviews with of course have different styles from one another, but Boban is definitely someone who stuck out to me. I've been more than happy with the majority of the interviews so far though.

Daniel (TFE): I noticed you also like underground metal in general as well. Can you name a few bands you know of, and what is it do you exactly do for the underground scene, in or outside your area?

Darrick: Well, as I stated about my mother's influence earlier, I'm a big fan of the Louisiana metal. That sludgy, swamp metal with a hardcore presence and speedy-yet-slow delivery. Really though, the whole Eyehategod/Superjoint Ritual/Goatwhore type of crowd. That music just feels like home to me.

I love bands like Assjack, Candiria, Acid Bath, Meshuggah, and Arson Anthem. Also, the classics of course like old school Sepultura and Cannibal Corpse. Some of the groups I call "metal" may not fall into the same category to other people, but if it's intense with a powerful energy to it I consider that to be pretty damn metal.

My involvement in the scene has been fairly nonexistent since the 1990s. I've just tended to keep myself busy with a ton of other projects that has ate my time away since. Of course I go out to shows and support different musicians when possible, but I don't get to spend even a fragment of the time I used to amongst the underground venues anymore. I plan to become more involved again at some point, but it's just a matter of finding the time to do so.

Daniel (TFE): How long have you been a fan of MMA and what do you appreciate about it most as a REAL sport?

Darrick: I've been a fan of sorts ever since UFC 1: The Beginning back in 1993. It may have actually been in 1994 when I saw the event, I can't really recall for sure. I remember my grandmother's boyfriend Jerry bringing it home on a VHS tape that he borrowed from someone. I watched a few of the early UFC shows, but pretty much forgot to look for new ones and didn't really follow the sport too closely until probably 2002.

In general, I'm not really too much into sports. I sort of dig some of them, but I'm not the "regular guy" when it comes to being a sports fan. I'd always leaned towards the opposite of mainstream activities for the most part, so sports never really appealed to me a whole lot as I got older. After I rediscovered mixed martial arts though, I found a sport that I can get genuinely excited about.

The pure, primal competition of MMA is what really attracts me the most to the sport. It's one person battling another person and that's it. Skill against skill. Toughness, heart, and the study of the martial arts combined. It's straight to the point with no beating around the bush. It's a basic level of competing that has existed as far back as human history can be examined, but with honed techniques, professional athletes, and rules.

Daniel (TFE): What other hobbies do you have outside or at home? What is your life like currently with the arrival of your new twin babies?

Darrick: Since the twins have arrived, I really haven't had time for much else other than catering to their whims. My girls Logann Nicole Patrick and Nola Lynne Patrick were born on January 27th, 2011 and it's been a hectic vortex into baby land thus far. They are definitely keeping my girlfriend Niki Wooten and I on our toes. It's a trip. Stressful, yet fulfilling.

Outside of that new main hobby of parenthood, there are a ton of things that I get into. The majority of what I'm into tends to be some form of art. I like messing around with photography when I can. I like capturing quality images of people that they can be proud to have of themselves. I don't work with any type of high caliber cameras or anything yet, but I'd like to delve into that aspect of it all someday.

I enjoy creating film too, although it's been years since I've shot any footage. Some friends and I embarked upon filming of stunt and prank comedy material back in 2000 and 2001. Sort of in that Jackass-vein of footage. We actually have some really good stuff in that pile of madness. I've never gotten around to editing it and getting the flick together though. Another project that I hope to complete by 2025. (Laughs) It's called Digested Puddle and I have a few clips floating around online. One of the scenes where my buddy Dave Stephens is caught on fire was used on The Maury Show a couple of years ago with Maury Povich making comedic comments over the footage.

I'm also a big fan of the comic book format of entertainment. I've always loved art and words, so it seemed to go hand in hand that I would end up being an avid reader of illustrated stories. I'm open to all types of graphic novel and comic book styles. From the more well-known characters from Marvel and DC to the abstract independent titles. I love just about all of Vertigo books such as Swamp Thing, Hellblazer, Preacher, Animal Man, DMZ, Fables, and Y: The Last Man.

A few other notable books that have helped to suck me deeper into the fanboy world include Kabuki, The Boys, Johnny The Homicidal Maniac, Sin City, X-Statix, Channel Zero, Lenore, Jinx, and The Walking Dead. You can actually see my first two published comic book letters in issue numbers 7 and 20 of The Walking Dead. I had chatted with some of the more popular writers and artists before, but The Walking Dead was the first book I ever wrote to. (Aside from me sending a letter to the Badger from First Comics when I was seven years old. How was I to know that he didn't really exist?)

I have been jotting out ideas for some psychologically weird stories recently and plan on putting out a few underground comics of my own over the course of the next couple of years. A few of them will use photography to tell the stories along with the words, while the others I will have to find quality artists for. In the meantime, to quell my thirst for being more than just a reader/collector of the genre, I have been starting to sell books as well. I'd like to eventually turn that side hobby into something more lucrative as time goes by.

Daniel (TFE): Can you name a few fighters that you respect highly in the UFC right now, or new up-and-comers?

Darrick: UFC fighters such as Kenny Florian, Georges St-Pierre, Jon Jones, Stephan Bonnar, Randy Couture, and Matt Hamill get a lot of respect from me. They seem to embody that level of attitude and respect for their peers that really stands out to me as to what my understanding of a martial artist has always been. There are quite a few other fighters who have that as well, but that's who came to mind instantly from the UFC roster.

I have respect for all of the fighters out there though. From the time I've spent getting to know a lot of the professional mixed martial artists, the main common thread that connects them all is their willingness to sacrifice and work harder than most other people. To get anywhere in the higher levels of MMA, you have to train consistently and continue to push yourself more past your breaking point every day.

As for up-and-comers, keep an eye out for the new weight classes and the influx of WEC fighters into the UFC now. It has always been so surprising to me how many UFC fans didn't know about the World Extreme Cagefighting organization, even though they are both owned by Zuffa. If you missed out on the WEC era, be sure to be on the lookout in the UFC for fighters such as Dominick Cruz, Anthony Pettis, Jose Aldo, Urijah Faber, and Ben Henderson.

Daniel (TFE): Have you been in any bands during the past or present? Do you play any instruments at all?

Darrick: I messed around doing vocals for a couple of local Dayton bands in the '90s. I never really made it out of the basement to go play shows though. The first band I jammed in was called Sphen and that was more of a jazzy funk, hardcore Hip Hop project with a touch of metal. I did that with brothers J-Bird Smith on the drums and bassist John Paul Smith. Anything within a band format for me usually consisted of one those two being part of the equation. Sphen was more of a session band than anything and our songs sounded different every time we played them.

I also briefly worked on two projects called Lachesis Muta and Samsara during the 1990s Dayton hardcore scene. With both of those bands, I ended up not remaining with them and never played shows out. Looking back, I should've stuck it out with those projects but I think I just had a hard time coming to terms with all of the different personalities involved within a group of people.

After my short time of doing hardcore and metal work, I began focusing more on my love for Hip Hop. Not that typical rap music you mainly hear on the radio, but real music from the Hip Hop culture. Some of my major influences within that community growing up included artists like KRS-One, Wu-Tang Clan, Kool Keith, House of Pain, and Funkdoobiest. The main person though being Chuck D from Public Enemy. You can read more about that full story in an interview/article I did with Chuck D over in the Hype section (http://publicenemy.com/index.php?page=page2&item=207) on the official Public Enemy website.

I ended up releasing five freestyle albums in late 2004 and early 2005. September Freestyles, Mental Dislocation, Brand New Galaxy, Abstract Humanity, and Reconstructive Projections. All of the material on the discs are one-track recordings done on hijacked beats with Windows XP Sound Recorder and a broken microphone. The songs aren't the best sound quality, but they serve their purpose for documentating a ton of thoughts I had exploding from me at the time. Not very many people have retained copies of those original albums.

The subject matter I approached on those recordings was very different. I have positive, thought-provoking tracks such as Human Life is on the Way, Would You Tell Me, and Hiding My Insides. There are weird, abstract songs like Milk Gallon Marsupials, Flapping Skin, and Best Smelling Corpse. I also went into some very dark places with tracks titled Fascination With Flesh, Mainly Your Fault, and Washed My Hands. Just an eclectic mixture of human emotion.

I'll make my way to eventually writing and recording a "real" album down the line a bit. I have a lot to say that I'd like to put to music and I have the itch in me to perform still. It's not on my immediate list of goals in life, but it's on that list nonetheless.

You can find Darrick Patrick in the following online areas:

Darrick Patrick MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick

Facebook Site for Darrick Patrick:

http://www.facebook.com/darrickpatrick

Darrick Patrick Interview Archives:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

Twitter Area for Darrick Patrick:

http://www.twitter.com/darrickpatrick

YouTube Account for Darrick Patrick:

http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=DarrickPatrick

Secondary YouTube Account for Darrick Patrick:

http://www.youtube.com/user/DarrickPatrickExtra

Darrick Patrick Reference Profile for other Online Material:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickreference

(This interview originally done for Transylvanian Forest E-zine in February of 2011)

10 Questions With Allan Love (by Darrick Patrick)

Allan "No" Love is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Cage Warriors Fighting Championship, Superior Challenge, Battle of Botnia, On Top Promotions, Strike and Submit, Cage Wars, Absolute Combat, Eurofight Xtreme Fighting Championship, and Northern Fight League. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Ignas Petkus in Cage Warriors Fighting Championship at Cage Warriors Fight Night 6 on May 24th, 2012.

Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Allan: I was a huge pro wrestling fan as a kid, then again as a teenager, and it was definitely pro wrestling that led me to MMA. I did Karate as a kid and totally hated it. I actually managed to fail a grading at a Karate school. I showed that much disinterest. I'm now kind of proud of that.

I was watching a lot of WWF and was a mark for Ken Shamrock, so I bought UFC 3 on VHS. I watched it and it was rubbish. It put me off MMA until the Ken Shamrock vs. Tito Ortiz fight when I started to get drawn in. I watched the Tito Ortiz vs. Frank Shamrock match and fell in love with the sport. After that, I was hooked and started to get really into it.

When I left university, I moved to get a job. So, I stopped playing rugby and started doing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Then from there into training MMA. I became a bit obsessed with it, probably because I was in a strange city without a network of friends. All I did was train. A year later, I had my first amateur fight. A year and a bit later after that, I fought pro for the first time.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Allan: Number one is my coach/friend/training partner Paul McVeigh. In fact, the same goes for James Doolan as well, and Garry Christie and John Nicholson for that matter. These guys were and are the heart of the Dinky Ninja Fight Team that I train with. They were the first people doing mixed martial arts in Scotland and are really in a big way responsible for there being a half-decent MMA scene in Scotland. They were there breaking barriers for the sport while at the same time trying to train and become better fighters when there was no one there to train them. They had to work it out for themselves.

On a higher profile note, I've got a load of respect for Vitor Belfort. He's been through so much during his long career, obviously the stuff with his sister being the biggest thing. To still be at the top of the game and be one of the top three middleweights in the world is phenomenal.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Allan: Ripping off the Nike slogan here but, "Just do it!" Find a good gym and get involved. It's far too easy to find reasons to put it off, saying things like I'll start MMA once I get fit. Don't worry about it, just get involved. Find a local gym that's producing professional and amateur fighters that are doing at least okay and train there. If you live in a big city, try a few places to see which one gives you a good vibe and go there. It's all good fun. Don't be scared, homie!

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Ignas Petkus on May 24th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Allan: It's good to be back in there. I've not fought since October and that wasn't the best memory to receive taking quite a brutal loss, so I'm super keen to get back in there and get back to winning ways. It's an interesting fight. I really need to get back to winning, but at the same time I need to put on a performance as well. It really is critical that I do well. It's the first time I've trained for a fight away from my home gym in Glasgow and I've had to take a different approach to my training. There has been a lot less sparring than what I'd usually do. Still can't wait to get in there and do what I'm capable of.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Allan: I don't really think of what I do as a martial art. Martial arts kind of freak me out. What I really get out of this is a real buzz from the problem solving aspect of it. Every opponent is a puzzle and you need to solve that puzzle. Either by developing new tools to solve the problem (like learning a different single leg set-up for example) or by getting better at using the tools you already have, like sharpening up your cross. Coming out to the gym each day knowing you've added something to your ability is just so rewarding. That and hitting people is fun.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Allan: Number one is my dad. An obvious one, but he really was a huge influence on me. I have so much respect for him. He's got a great work ethic and he's a great person. He is someone everyone gets on with, but is still a sensible and responsible type. Whenever somebody says I'm becoming like my dad, I feign insult but take secret pride in it.

On a different note, my Under 18 rugby coach Innes was an influence. From a sporting perspective, he was huge on me. I'd played rugby since I was eight years old, but I'd always been coached by a teammate's dad. It was always very friendly, let's all get along, and have fun-type stuff. When I started training with Innes, he took our kiddie team and turned us into animals. He was a huge character and borderline crazy. A big, intimidating guy and swore as well as anyone I've met. Everyone that was coached by him remembers him with a mix of fondness and fear. He was the guy that made me mentally tough and that's been huge for me. He also had amazing patter like, "Drop your cocks and reach for your socks, shaggers!"

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Allan: I love music. Metal, hardcore, and Hip Hop mostly, but I can get into anything on the right day. If forced to be picky though, I'm a metal fan. Across the whole range of metal, I'm into it. Guys hate getting into my car for road trips, especially if I'm in a black metal mood. Nothing gets weight-cutting fighters more angry than a four-hour drive listening to Immortal, Emperor, and Dissection. Well, except for maybe getting told the story of each band and where they fell on the whole Euronymous/Varg Vikernes thing.

Apart from that, I'm a huge football fan. I try to get down to watch my local team whenever I can. Unbelievably, as soon as I move to Australia, we qualify for the Champions League. I've watched some atrocious Motherwell sides in my time and they choose now to become good!

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Allan: I'm worried this interview is a bit boring, so I'm dropping a good one here. I don't think anyone that isn't family knows this. When I was about eight years old, I was taken into the hospital as I was having serious stomach pains. They were worried I had appendicitis and that my appendix may need to be removed. Turns out I was just really constipated and all that was needed was the removal of a big poo! A nurse shoved two fingers up there to check. From that day on I knew I could never be gay.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Allan: Getting a finger shoved up my bum in the hospital...nah, in seriousness, I think it was my third birthday. My dad and (current, not at the time) step-mum were there. I had a cake in the shape of a bear and I got a little brown cassette recorder. Or maybe I'm combining two memories here.

Also, every second Thursday my dad would go to the pub but I was always told he was going to a meeting. In my young mind, the only meeting I knew of was the House of Parliament from my grandpa watching Question Time on TV. So, I thought every Thursday my dad went and sat on the back benches of Westminster rather than on a bar stool at the Railway Tavern.

Darrick: If you were stuck in a bomb shelter for the rest of your life, what three items would you take in with you besides food and water?

Allan: How's the 3G/Wi-Fi signal in there? Assuming it's good, I'd have a laptop, lube, and cleaning supplies. If there wasn't any signal available, I'd instead take a fully loaded iPod, Mila Kunis, and something to mask the smell so the neighbors wouldn't complain.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Allan Love in the following places:

Official Allan Love Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/allan.love.98

Official Allan Love Twitter Area:

http://twitter.com/allannolove

Allan Love on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Allan-Love-30290

Allan Love Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/30290

10 Questions With Kalvin Hackney (by Darrick Patrick)

Kalvin "Hot Boy" Hackney is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Bellator Fighting Championships, Superbrawl, Best of the Best, Cage Fighting Championships, Wild Bill's Fight Night, Dana Pitcher Productions, and Powerhouse Fighting Championships. At the time of this short interview, his next scheduled match is against Emanuel "E.J." Brooks in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 69 on May 18th, 2012.

Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Kalvin: Well, I started bodybuilding at a local gym. I ended up meeting a guy who was training other guys for MMA. I told him I was a wrestler in high school, he got me training, and three months later he had me a fight.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Kalvin: Yeah...train hard!

Darrick: Who is someone in the sport that you highly respect?

Kalvin: Georges St-Pierre (GSP) because of how humble he is with himself.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Emanuel "E.J." Brooks on May 18th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Kalvin: I think it's going to be an awesome fight! He's a really good athlete, strong and explosive.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Kalvin: The most fulfilling aspect for me is how mixed martial arts brings people together, in a sport supposedly thought to be brutal and violent.

Darrick: Who is a person that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Kalvin: My dad. My father was a great athlete and he always trained. He worked hard and provided for us. He taught me to work harder to be better.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Kalvin: I'm all about fitness. I'm a personal trainer. I'm also a country boy, so I like to fish and hunt.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Kalvin: Really?! (Laughs) Honestly, getting breast-fed as an infant.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Kalvin: I love astronomy.

Darrick: When you're no longer amongst the living, how would you most like to be remembered?

Kalvin: I'd like to be remembered as a good man who believed in God, worked hard in whatever he did, and loved everyone.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Kalvin Hackney in the following places:

Official Kalvin Hackney Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/kalvin.hackney

Official Kalvin Hackney MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/256805708

Kalvin Hackney on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Kalvin-Hackney-24676

Kalvin Hackney Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/24676

10 Questions With Tommy Quinn (by Darrick Patrick)

Tommy Quinn is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Cage of Truth, Northern Fight League, and Ultimate Conflict. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Jack Mason in Cage Warriors Fighting Championship at CWFC 47 on June 2nd, 2012.

Darrick: How did you end up competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Tommy: My journey into MMA was quite an indirect one, but obviously one that has influenced most of my life until date. I started when I was seventeen years old and began through an interest in the sport from one of my old friends when I was at school. He was one of those lads who fought a lot out on the street and wanted to learn MMA for all the wrong reasons. He didn't want to join a club by himself though, so I decided I would go with him for a laugh. I never once thought I would ever fight. Roughly about a month or so later, my friend at the time quit. I made the decision to stick it out and have done so to this day.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Tommy: I never really looked up to many people when I was growing up. I was a roly poly kid. I was ridiculously overweight growing up which wasn't great but helped motivate me in my training. If I had to pick one person who influenced me, it was probably my father due to his work ethic. My father never had much growing up and worked hard as a bar owner for over thirty years. He has made a good living for himself. I have a lot of respect for those who don't make excuses, those who just work hard and get on with things. I think I learned this work ethic and stubbornness from my father.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Tommy: First off, don't do it if you're in it for the money. Especially within the UK, there is not enough money within the sport in this country. Second, expect it to be the toughest physical, mental, and emotional thing you could possibly do. You constantly question yourself when you are consistently sore from the impact of the sport, the amount of sacrifice for no guaranteed reward, and on those "off" days when you doubt your ability. It's a sport of ups and downs but you have to take it on the chin, both figuratively and literally.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Jack Mason on June 2nd. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Tommy: My thoughts are of excitement, nerves, and anxiousness, but I'm delighted to be given such an opportunity. I understand that on paper I will be regarded as an underdog due to the sheer gap in experience, but that doesn't phase me. For what I lack in experience in the cage/ring, I make up for in training. It's the level of training partners which I have that gives me the confidence to take such a fight, so I'm just looking forward to making a return to fighting.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Tommy: Just the enjoyment and the thrill of fighting and competing really. I was never one for fighting outside growing up, so fighting is such is a novelty to me. I enjoy it as much as I possibly can. I like MMA mostly because team sports were not for me. I played football growing up and it used to frustrate me if we lost because others didn't put the same level of effort in as I did. Whereas in MMA, it's all down to you on that day. If you lose, it's all because of your own performance. That's why we as professionals train so hard to try and minimize the possibilities of error.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Tommy: The majority of the people in the sport aren't the big league players such as the GSP or Anderson Silva types. It's the hardworking people who have sacrificed a lot of time, money, education, and personal health to do something they really love or enjoy. It's the likes of those I've been in contact with that I respect the most such as my coach Peter Irving, my first coach Emmett McNally, Darren Hughes, and Greg Loughran. People like that, just to name a few. These are the guys who have been about the sport, grafted their hardest, but have never been given the opportunity to show their full capabilities under the big screen and receive a proper wage for their trade. They still stick at it though. These are the guys who I look up to. I want people to know when I'm older, regardless of where the sport takes me, that they can look up to me and say that I worked hard.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Tommy: I don't really have a life outside of MMA. Most of my time is at the gym or at work. If money wasn't an object, I am dying to do the likes of skydiving and such. I'm also a bit of a gadget freak as I like to try and teach myself a lot of different things. One of which that I'm currently teaching myself when time presents itself is video editing. I feel like I have a very creative mind.

Darrick: If you had superpowers, what would they be?

Tommy: If I had a superpower, it would be to hold the characteristics of any animal. The reason being that I could be as strong as a bear, fly like a bird, swim like a fish, blend in like a chameleon, etc. You get the drift.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Tommy: All of my friends know this, but the general public doesn't. I'm a singer at heart. I've basically got everything except for the voice. (Laughs) God apparently loves a trier though. After this next fight, the crowd may get a rendition of my walkout song sang personally from myself.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Tommy: One of my oldest memories is of a Christmas morning. My sister and I were little, and "Santa" was still around then. I remember my dad opening the front door and Santa had brought my sister a brand new purple bike. I never got the Talkboy pen like the ones from Home Alone, but Santa brought me a Man United watch that I didn't ask for. Those were the good days. Santa was the man.

Thanks for the interview. I would like to thank Cage Warriors for scheduling the match and also thank Jack for taking the fight. I'd like to thank my manager Dave Kirkland, Jim Burn for setting the fight up, and all my training partners for getting me as prepared as possible for the 2nd of June. I'll see you guys there.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Tommy Quinn in the following places:

Official Tommy Quinn Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/tommi4

Tommy Quinn on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Tommy-Quinn-29689

10 Questions With Don Carlo-Clauss (by Darrick Patrick)

Don Carlo-Clauss is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Strikeforce, Combat Zone, Raging Wolf, Cage Fury Fighting Championships, Xtreme Championship Fight League, World Championship Fighting, Knockout Promotions, Full Force Productions, No Boundary, and Extreme Fighting International. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Jacob Kirwan in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 68 on May 11th, 2012.

Darrick: What was the path that led you to competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Don: Oddly enough, it was getting a normal 8-5 desk job that led me to MMA. I was previously coaching wrestling in Rochester, New York and was unable to continue due to my hours at work. I needed to find an outlet for physical activity and started training at a gym near my home. It was all downhill from there. Wrestling provided an excellent base for me and I picked it up right away.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Don: My family. They have been instrumental in every aspect of my life and have made me who I am today. Without their love and support, I would be a mess.

Darrick: Any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Don: Find yourself a good manager and trainer that you can trust. It can be a ruthless and shady business. Also, get with a good team and surround yourself with people who have similar goals. Having good training partners and teammates is crucial.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Jacob Kirwan on May 11th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Don: Can't wait! (in Bart Scott's voice)

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Don: Working hard to get better every day and helping my teammates do the same.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Don: I have a ton of respect for anyone who is willing to put it on the line and get in the cage. Beyond that, my coaches and teammates are like family to me. I have nothing but love and respect for those guys. Team BombSquad!

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Don: I love riding motorcycles and traveling.

Darrick: What comic book character do you relate to most?

Don: I'm a grown man. I don't read comic books.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Don: I am a huge momma's boy. I actually have a tattoo over my heart that says so.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Don: Oldest? I don't know. Probably pooping my pants.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Don Carlo-Clauss in the following places:

Official Don Carlo-Clauss Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/don.carloclauss

Don Carlo-Clauss on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Don-CarloClauss-42658

Don Carlo-Clauss Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/42658

10 Questions With Jim Alers (by Darrick Patrick)

Jim Alers is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Cage Warriors Fighting Championship, Ultimate Alliance Fights, Complete Devastation MMA, Art of Fighting, and Real Fighting Championships. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Matteus Lahdesmaki in Cage Warriors Fighting Championship at Cage Warriors Fight Night 6 on May 24th, 2012.

Darrick: What was the journey that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Jim: My path to mixed martial arts started with me getting into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu after I was done with wrestling in high school. I never planned on fighting but my fiancée told me, "You are in the gym all the time! You better try and fight." So, I tried MMA...so far, so good.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Jim: If you are going to get into the sport of mixed martial arts, you need to be ready to make a lot of sacrifices. All the foods that you love, partying, drinking, time with friends, etc. You have to be willing to give up a lot of that.

Darrick: Who are a few of the people in the sport that you highly respect?

Jim: Frankie Edgar shows amazing heart when he fights and I feel that is one of the most important aspects of fighting. You can't teach someone to have a lot of heart. I also like Jose Aldo because he is a bad ass.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Matteus Lahdesmaki on May 24th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Jim: I believe that this next fight is my toughest fight yet. He is the most experienced fighter that I have fought. I think it will be an exciting, fast-paced match. Keep your eyes open because if you look away there is a good chance you can miss the ending.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Jim: Being out there in front of all the screaming fans is a high that no drug can probably ever replicate. It is what keeps me coming back for more.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Jim: My parents are both very hard workers and through them I learned that nothing comes easy. Also, my mentor and one of my sponsors, Hank Porcher has been there for me through thick and thin. I feel I learned how to be a man through him.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Jim: I'm actually a certified elementary school teacher and love to read. I would like to one day write and illustrate my own children's book.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Jim: My oldest memory would have to be living in a two-bedroom apartment as a child with my parents, two brothers, and sisters. That was fun. I have a bad memory really, I guess I've been punched too many times.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Jim: I hate the taste of coconut. I will spit out anything that has that awful stuff in it. Other than that, I would eat anything.

Darrick: If you had 24 hours left to live, how would you spend that time?

Jim: This past year, my best friend was taken away from me in a murder. Through that I learned that there is nothing more important than time with friends and family. If I had twenty-four hours left to live, I would love to just spend the whole day at the beach with loved ones.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Jim Alers in the following places:

Official Jim Alers Website:

http://www.fightjim.com

Official Jim Alers Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/alers

Official Jim Alers MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/fightjimfight

Official Jim Alers Twitter Area:

http://www.twitter.com/fightjim

Jim Alers on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Jim-Alers-36581

10 Questions With Anita Rodriguez (by Darrick Patrick)

Anita "El Tigre" Rodriguez is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as King of the Cage, Xtreme Fighting League, C3 Fights, Bully Bash and Brawl, and South Texas Fighting Championships. At the time of this interview, her next scheduled match is against Jessica Eye in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 66 on April 20th, 2012.

Darrick: What was the road that led you to professional mixed martial arts competition?

Anita: It was actually my father who started me on this path. He knew I loved to fight and heard about this sport because he knew a trainer. So, he called me up one day asking if I wanted to fight professionally and get paid for it. Of course I jumped on the offer and here I am six years later. I was off for two years because God blessed me with my daughter, but now I’m ready to head full force with my all and my daughter by my side.

Darrick: Do you have any words of advice for other individuals looking to compete in MMA?

Anita: The words of advice that I have is, "Train! Train! Train!" Mixed martial arts is not easy, you must have self-control and be very dedicated. You can’t rush into this sport and expect to come out on top. Also, you absolutely cannot fear the cage. It must become like your second home. Especially to all my fellow female MMA fighters, I wish you all the best of luck. It's time for us to emerge and conquer. See you in the cage!

Darrick: Who is someone in the sport that you highly respect?

Anita: Hands down, no questions asked, Cris Cyborg. I love her style and technique of fighting. She is strong, fast, and powerful in all aspects of ground and pound. I enjoy watching her fight. I just hope I am as good as her one day.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Jessica Eye on April 20th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Anita: This one will be a very entertaining fight. Most definitely will be pound for pound. She has speed, where I have power. My coach has trained me hard. I am prepared and ready, as I am sure she is too. May the best fighter win.

Darrick: What brings you the most fulfillment out of martial arts?

Anita: The most fulfillment I get is from winning, of course. Most of all through that is to be recognized though. I love to hear my name called, with my hand raised after the fight, and listening to the crowd cheering for me.

Darrick: Who are some of the people that greatly influenced you while growing up?

Anita: The people who have influenced me while growing up would have to be my brothers and my sister. My older brother Eddie “Jr” because he used to beat me up all the time and I wanted to get stronger to get him back. My younger sister Theresa “Nae” would always encourage me and help me stay on track. My younger brother Anthony “Tony” (R.I.P.) was my instigator. He was always bringing me new opponents to fight, which kept me on my toes.

Darrick: Outside of MMA, what are your other interests?

Anita: I love to dance, spend time with my daughter, and hang out with my family. There is nothing better than playing with my daughter and spending time with my significant other.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Anita: The one that comes to mind is when my brother Eddie was fighting an older and stronger guy. Needless to say, it wasn't going in my brother's favor. My other brother Tony and I jumped in without hesitation. We had each other's back and always will.

Darrick: Tell us something about you that most people don't know.

Anita: Hmmm, there are a lot of things people don't know about me. Just to open myself up a bit though, I lost my baby brother Anthony "Tony" Yanez back on December 21st, 2011. He was only twenty years old and just starting to live. (I love and miss you. Forever in my heart you will remain.)

Darrick: If you had three wishes, what would they be?

Anita: The first wish would be to bring my baby brother back because nothing is the same without him. His little girls need him the most. My second wish is to become the championship belt holder for Strikeforce. It's my ultimate goal for myself. It proves hard work and determination pays off. The third wish is to become financially stable so I can provide the best I can for my daughter. I want to try and give her all that I didn't have while growing up.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://www.myspace.com/darrickpatrick/blog/343519835

You can also check out Anita Rodriguez in the following places:

Official Anita Rodriguez Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/anitaer1

Anita Rodriguez on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Anita-Rodriguez-48244