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MMA Exclusive: Matt Lindland Says, "Chael Would Finish Anderson before Round 4"

JS: Hi Matt, cheers for taking the time to talk today. Ok, so your promotion “Sport Fight” is hosting its 30th show this coming weekend, an organisation which you co-founded with Randy Couture. Is “The Natural” still involved a…

JS: Hi Matt, cheers for taking the time to talk today. Ok, so your promotion “Sport Fight” is hosting its 30^th show this coming weekend, an organisation which you co-founded with Randy Couture. Is “The Natural” still involved at all with Sport Fight?

ML: Nope. Randy moved onto Vegas and I’ve taken it over. But even when he moved out to Nevada, he’d bring over plenty of the guys that he trains to start on our show. Fighters like Gray Maynard and Evan Dunham. Randy understands our business model, and he appreciates the quality of our show, so when Gray was starting out, he realised it would be the perfect platform.

JS: Great. You should ask Randy to tweet out a promo for the upcoming Sport Fight 30 to his 150,000 followers. You and Randy also co-founded Team Quest, and Dan Henderson became involved in 2006. However, I read about the trademark infringement lawsuit that Dan Henderson filed against you earlier this year. How is your subsequent personal and working relationship with Dan?

ML: Good idea man, I might hit Randy up. Yeah I licensed a gym to Dan back in ’06. I don’t know what Dan’s up to right now. I’m not sure what Dan’s problem is, because he hasn’t spoken to me in a while. We haven’t had a relationship in a while now. Even when he was speaking to me, he wasn’t exactly forthcoming. I don’t know, maybe he has a big ego, and thinks he wants to take over the world. I just keep my chin down and move forward.

JS: Ok, irrespective of that, how do you think Dan will fare against Shogun? Would a victory warrant a title shot at MW or LHW belt? How would he fare against Anderson and JBJ?

ML: I think Shogun’s a pretty great matchup for Dan stylistically, and I think he’ll do fantastic in that fight. I don’t think JBJ or Anderson would be good matchups for Dan. In terms of what a win over Shogun warrants, I don’t know. That stuff is usually up to the whim of a promoter. It’s not always based on performance requirements. No athletic architecture is really in place. Wouldn’t that be nice? We are in the sports’ business, and I understand there’s an element of entertainment also. But wouldn’t it be nice if MMA was a meritocracy like in other professional sports. I remember in the Olympics, I had to earn my way there, and there was a specific criteria set.

JS: Yes, that sounds fair. Team Quest is primarily known for its excellence in wrestling. I made the obvious connection, and was wondering whether the name was partly based on the cult 80s wrestling film “Vision Quest?”

ML: Haha, no. But that is a cult classic, especially for American wrestlers. I didn’t realise that film would be well-known outside of the US.

JS: I must be honest here. At UFC 129, Randy entered the Octagon to Red Rider’s “Lunatic Fringe,” and Joe Rogan mentioned that it had featured on the film’s soundtrack, so I subsequently looked it up. Moving onto Chael now, you’re obviously close with him. Given both of your involvements in politics, is your friendship based more on politics or fighting?

ML: Haha. I’ve been Chael’s coach since he was 15 years old in high school, so I can pretty much answer anything on him. Chael and I are both involved in politics, and we are aligned in a lot of our philosophies and beliefs, but Chael is a straight GOP party guy in my opinion, therefore more conservative, whereas I’m a strict libertarian, even though I ran on a GOP ticket. Chael and I both live in different districts of Oregon, so there’s a chance that we’ll both run for office simultaneously one day. But for now, both of our focuses is on MMA.

But politics and religion are topics that people tend to stay away from in their conversations, because they’re polarising. But they are important topics, so they should be discussed the most, so we should know each other’s opinions on them.

JS: Is it your own experiences with the law, specifically having to secure your spot on the US Olympic team through the courts, which fueled your passion for politics?

ML: I think there’s some truth to that. I’ve always been intrigued with law and the political process, which is all based on law. I think our country has taken a lot of liberties, such as killing the Al-Qaeda member in Yemen a couple of weeks ago. That was completely unlawful, and we didn’t have congressional approval to go and kill another citizen. Regardless of whether he’s a terrorist or not, there is a law in place which requires us to give a due process. So yeah, I’m a big believer in the system, but I just don’t think we follow our own system and laws very well. I think ultimately we’ll see the system collapse. You know, no system has ever stayed around forever. Returning to your question, I’m not sure what fueled my interest in politics. I guess human nature, curiosity, just constantly striving to learn more.

JS: Would you prefer to run against him for office or have to face him inside a cage? Which would be easier?

ML: Haha. Well, I’ve already got victories over Chael on the mat. I don’t think either of us would want to face each other inside the cage. I wouldn’t want to battle Chael on wits, or strength. Both would be very difficult. I’ll stay allies with Chael on both fronts.

JS: Haha, sounds sensible. Now you’ve gone on record as stating that Anderson is already attempting to shirk Chael. If the fight eventually materialises, how would Chael fare in the rematch?

ML: I think the rematch would look just like the first one, except I’ve got a game plan for Chael to finish him before the end of the third round. So, yeah it’ll look similar to their first encounter, but with some additional techniques and strategy, it won’t make it to the championship rounds.

JS: WOW, ok. Just trying to probe a little further, would these additional techniques involve wrestling submission holds or BJJ?

ML: (Sounds jokingly astounded) BJJ submissions? We are not Brazilians. We are Americans. You understand that right? Why would we be working BJJ? We do not employ BJJ. We employ American wrestling submissions.

JS: Haha. Fair play. I’m just a naïve Englishman here.

ML: Ok, I’ll let that one slide since you aren’t an American reporter. But yes, we would employ a submission hold finish or some vicious ground ‘n’ pound to finish that fight.

JS: You know Chael better than nearly anyone. Is he as funny off-camera as when being filmed? Good to go for a beer with?

ML: Yes, he is. Haha, he’s fairly entertaining off-camera also. He has always amused me, even when he was a young man. And he’s a great person to go for a beer with, because if you want a drink, he won’t have one and he’ll drive you home. He can be pretty funny without even the beers at the pub. I’ve got a ton of funny stories about Chael, I wouldn’t even know where to begin. Half the time when he amuses me, I don’t even think he’s trying to be funny.

JS: Ok. You alluded to it before with your jovial comment about BJJ. What did you make of Chael’s remarks about Brazil? Did you believe they were light-hearted, because Brazilian natives took offense?

ML: Of course they were light-hearted. It was just marketing and promoting. Expanding his brand and showcasing his personality. I mean, you can’t take everything serious. Too many people take this sport too seriously, like this is the be all and end all. It’s just an athletic competition. I think the Brazilians need to lighten up and get a sense of humour.

JS: Ok, moving onto your career. Obviously you’re 41 now, and your resume features some legendary names. Amongst the hardcore you’re renowned and respected but to the casual fans, new to the sport, you are relatively unknown.

ML: Well, you know, when I was fighting in the UFC, they weren’t promoting and marketing as well as right now. The FOX deal will only enhance its popularity. Me personally, I never got into MMA to be famous, I got into it to compete and pursue athletic aspirations. They were my pure intentions. I came from a true sport, an Olympic background, winning multiple national, international and Olympic medals. So I entered MMA as a sport. I started MMA in 1997, and in 2000 I jumped in both feet. Coming from a pure sport background, I treated MMA as such, rather than focusing on the fact that it’s also an entertainment industry. But I’ve learnt later on in my career that it is also an entertainment industry, and I’ve coached my athletes to be both entertainers and sportsmen.

JS: Ok, so as Chael has risen to prominence within the MMA world, have you consequently advised him to be more outspoken, in order to market himself and his brand?

ML: Yeah, absolutely. And what you see is Chael’s real personality. It isn’t an act. But it’s better to accentuate your personality than to hide it. People will become more familiar with you and talk about you, whether they love you or hate you.

JS: Ok, well thanks for your time today Matt. I really appreciate it. I look forward to our forthcoming interview in which we’ll discuss your newfound role as an advisor to the future home of MMA Takedown Fight Media, and its inaugural coverage of your promotion Sport Fight 30 on 22nd October

ML: No worries, it was a pleasure talking with you.

Follow Matt on Twitter @mattlindland

Follow me on Twitter @jonathanshrager

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MMA Exclusive Interview: Paul Daley Discusses His Desire to Return to the UFC

JS: Hi Paul, cheers for taking the time to chat today. Post-BAMMA 7 news emerged that you’d had a disagreement with the promotion. What are the implications for your touted December bout with Nate Marquardt? PD: I doubt the fight’s going to…

PD: I doubt the fight’s going to materialise now. I saw the interview with him that was published on MMAWeekly.com, and there was little contained within the article that surprised me. There are few marquee names in BAMMA aside from myself that would appeal to Nate. Obviously there’s Tom “Kong” Watson, but those two are training partners and also now competing at different weights. There’s Jimmy Wallhead, whose coming off a fantastic win over Frank Trigg, but due to the fact that Jimmy is yet to fight on the biggest stage and receive the plaudits which his talent merits, his status is yet to reach that of mine. So within BAMMA, I’m the guy he wants and needs to fight, but it’s not looking likely at this stage. I couldn’t care less what he says in a vain attempt to goad me into accepting the fight. It isn’t a matter of shirking Nate, it’s purely based on my grievance with BAMMA.

JS: Fair enough. And how do you respond to Nate Marquardt’s claim that you probably wouldn’t have made weight anyway?

PD: There has been a little bit of talk about my history with weight cutting. How about I talk about the use of PEDs within MMA? Nate’s a prime example here. Granted, he has made 170lbs once, but he was caught using a Performance Enhancing Drug in the process, so who’s to say whether Nate could make welterweight naturally? You know, I could say sh*t like that. I’m not bothered either way. If the fight happens, it happens. I’m not running anywhere. But I refuse to be drawn into a fight.

JS: Even though you’d prefer to withhold the specific details, it sounds pretty final. Is this the last time you’ll conceivably compete for BAMMA?

PD: I don’t see myself fighting for BAMMA again. However, if we come to agree on terms for BAMMA 8 in Nottingham then the title fight with Nate could be arranged. Obviously, my intention will be to triumph in becoming the BAMMA champion, at which juncture I’d be in a position to defend the title thereafter. For now however, my focus is on Ringside MMA in Montreal on October 21st. Moving forward, I just want to compete on the biggest stages against the biggest names possible, wherever that may be.

JS: Well, as a UK MMA fan, and I think I speak on behalf of all MMA enthusiasts here in Britain, I genuinely hope that you settle your differences with BAMMA and that subsequently the fight with Nate transpires. It would be a tremendous showcase for the sport in this country, attracting interest globally, and would be a fantastic way to conclude 2011.

PD: It really would have been fantastic. I was looking forward to it, and there’s a part of me that is still looking forward to the possibility. Hopefully, it will all be worked out between myself, my management and the promotion, and then we can all look forward to an explosive evening. The 2011 ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship have recently taken place here in Nottingham, England, and even the buzz generated around the city for that, a sport which holds relatively little interest for the public, has been palpable. So just envisage the excitement created if I were to top the bill against Nate at BAMMA 8. It would be absolutely sick.

JS: Indeed, it would be immense. Ok, so moving on, I received a press release yesterday stating that you want to return to the UFC. When did this desire arise?

PD: I just figure that my consistently-high performance levels are on a par with many of the elite welterweights within the UFC. I recently fought Nick Diaz for the Strikeforce welterweight title, and came close to finishing him in the first round. He subsequently is awarded an immediate title shot at GSP. Then there are rumours suggesting that Tyrone Woodley is moving over to the UFC. I’ve competed admirably against these dudes, and even though I haven’t quite emerged the victor, I know I’m constantly improving. I’ve made dramatic enhancements to my training regimen since being released by the UFC. My approach is much more considered. I see fighters like Jake Ellenberger, and I reckon that’d be a cracking matchup. There are lots of potentially great fights that await me in the UFC.

JS: Ok, and does the fact that you almost defeated Nick Diaz (who was immediately awarded a title shot in UFC) enhance your belief that you are a top ten WW globally?

PD: Yes I do believe that. The same happened with Koscheck, who eked out a decision victory over me in a number one contenders bout. I always seem to be there or thereabouts, but I ain’t no gatekeeper, trust me. I’m right up there with these guys, nobody has an easy ride when fighting against me, and I’m only going to become a more daunting prospect to these upper echelon welterweights.

JS: Ok, and do you have a timeframe in mind for a return to the UFC?

PD: I just firmly believe that my performances against high-calibre opponents warrant a place on the biggest stage, irrespective of what has happened in the past. I don’t have a definitive timeframe in mind. I’m just putting the suggestion out there in the open. There will always be fights for me because I’m entertaining and I always bring it. There will always be paycheques for me. But in all honesty, I would like a return to the UFC.

JS: Does your desire to return to the UFC also stem from a belief that there aren’t enough credible challenges left out there at 170 in Strikeforce and other promotions globally?

PD: There are a few credible challenges still available, a couple in Japan and a couple in the US. There are probably a handful of meaningful fights for me outside of the UFC. Since being released from the UFC I’m 5-2, with the two losses coming at the hands of Nick Diaz in a title fight, and Tyrone Woodley in which he harnessed his wrestling to narrowly edge a decision in what was a title contention decider. I’m undoubtedly a top fighter. Look at Jorge Masvidal, a guy I beat last year and now he’s fighting Gilbert Melendez for the belt at lightweight after putting a whooping on KJ Noons. I’m only fighting the best. And most recently Jordan Radev. I wasn’t able to finish him, but he withstood an inhumane amount of punishment. He’s an uber-tough guy, who has successfully competed at middleweight throughout his entire career. I’m one of the handful of people who has overcome him. I want the recognition that my resume merits.

JS: Ok, so you mention the handful of meaningful fights that remain for you outside of the UFC. Can you specify any names?

PD: I view them as meaningful fights, rather than posing a serious threat. Nate Marquardt is a meaningful fight. Marius Zaromskis, the DREAM champion. Sakuraba would be worthwhile because of his status over in Japan. There’s an up-and-coming guy fighting in this season’s Bellator called Douglas Lima who is the current MFC champion, and he’s highly-touted. These are the fights for which I’d be motivated to train, because I can see their worth. There isn’t much out there for me aside from that.

JS: And as you mentioned the last time we spoke, you are signed with Strikeforce till January 2013. Are there any fighters in their welterweight division that appeal?

PD: I’d be interested in a rematch with Tyrone Woodley or Nick Diaz, depending on the terms of his Zuffa contract. There are a few budding stars on the cusp of mainstream recognition such as Jordan Mein and Tyler Stinson.

JS: For you to be publicly declaring an interest in returning to the UFC leads me to believe that the idea has been discussed. Has something been mentioned to you in passing? Has the UFC hinted at your return?

PD: Haha, you’d be right. Whilst at UCMMA down in London the other weekend, I heard some mutterings from a couple of well-connected people within the MMA industry, which added credibility to their words. It wasn’t something I was expecting to hear, and it isn’t my sole focus right now. But if the possibility exists, then I might as well publicly express and confirm my interest. I’m not averse to the idea at all, I’m by no means anti-UFC, and I’d like to take the opportunity to return if the opportunity presented itself.

JS: Ok, you confirmed during our last interview that you’re cool with Lorenzo. Is it likely to be Lorenzo rather than Dana that negotiates your return?

PD: I would think so yes. As I said beforehand, I’ve had no sort of previous contact with Dana so I imagine something would be negotiated with Joe Silva or Lorenzo.

JS: Aside from your talent inside the cage, and charisma outside it, do you think the UFC are seriously considering bringing you back because of the lack of top British prospects currently competing in the UFC, coupled with their awareness that they disappointed the UK market by failing to deliver on their promise of multiple UK-based events?

PD: I don’t think the UFC feels it needs to retain the UK market, and that has a bearing on whether they need to sign the top UK prospects. In my opinion, the organisation is currently undecided on the UK market. However, signing British fighters that are globally recognised, with global appeal, will always be attractive to the UFC because it facilitates the promotion of fights. I don’t really pigeonhole myself in the UK bracket, as I perceive myself to fall under the category of top international talent. I haven’t fought a British guy for a while, I tend to compete against international stars.

JS: Absolutely. But since you were released, the majority of UK prospects have lost a bit of their lustre (e.g. Hardy, Hathaway, Winner, Pearson). Does the UFC need you at this stage in order to retain the UK market?

PD: I do understand that point. The fact that the UFC has retained the services of Dan Hardy indicates that there’s a lack of marketable UK talent that remains within the organisation. Even though Dan’s a teammate, it’s fair to state that under normal circumstances Dan would have been released following four consecutive losses. Dan has kept his place on the roster to reinforce the UK’s presence within the UFC, essentially as support to Michael Bisping. So, it’s clear that the UFC is struggling with a dearth of marketable UK fighters that arouse interest amongst the MMA community.

JS: You’re a candid guy, and you’ve been quite outspoken at times about Dana, the UFC and Zuffa rather than being apologetic and trying to curry favour in order to get back into the UFC. How do you respond to people’s suggestions on the UG that the UFC won’t take you back?

PD: I read the comments on the UG. Positive or negative, if I encourage debate then I’m happy with that. I’m glad the idea has been publicised by the media, signifying that it’ll probably reach executives at Zuffa. There are a few negative posts but it hasn’t spiralled out of control, and there isn’t a surplus of people undermining the idea. Everybody has an opinion. I’m not one of the most loved guys on the UG, but I’m one of the most appreciated fighters in the UK, not just by the hardcore MMA enthusiasts, but also by the general public to whom my style of fighting appeals. So I’m a valuable asset in that sense, because I can attract MMA fans and those that aren’t necessarily MMA fans, hence enabling the sport to reach new demographics. Therefore I deserve to be featured on the biggest stage, like me or not.

JS: As your performance against Woodley indicated, do you believe you’re now more well-equipped to deal with top ten UFC WW wrestlers? (the likes of Ellenberger, Brenneman, Story, Fitch, Kos, Shields, Hendricks, Johnson) Would you like a rematch with Kos down the line? This would be a massive PPV draw surely? Anyone else that specifically tickles your fancy at WW globally/or in UFC?

PD: Yes, I think there are lots of potential matchups for me. A rematch with Kos or Diaz. They could throw me to Jake Ellenberger, who I rate highly, with the idea of promoting it as a stepping stone towards a title shot for him. There’s always Rory MacDonald, who hasn’t encountered a pure power puncher thus far, but that’d be an extremely tough fight. There are a lot of intriguing matchups there, for which I’d probably be the underdog, but I’d relish the challenges.

JS: Last time we talked, we discussed Twitter. Your teammate Dean Amasinger recently hashtagged you in his Follow Friday tweet so it seems like the pressure is mounting to lure you into tweeting. Are you any closer to joining the micro-blogging site?

PD: Not yet. If I land back over in the UFC, or on a big international card, I’ll probably activate an account, as the majority of elite MMA fighters seem to be on Twitter. We’ll wait and see. I need more media power behind me so that I can amass a respectable amount of followers.

JS: I’d strongly recommend you join ASAP Paul. The UFC, and particularly Dana, absolutely loves Twitter and is forever endorses it, so with your recent declaration that you’d like to return to the organisation, it couldn’t do any harm. Aside from your credentials and talent inside the cage, it’s likely that you’ll accumulate 50,000 followers plus which underscores the extent of your draw outside the cage also, and in turn will reinforce your appeal to the UFC.

PD: Haha, yes, I think Lorenzo has shares in Twitter. Cheers, I appreciate that advice Jonny. I might have to give it a shot and jump on there one evening when I’m at home bored.

JS: Definitely. Well thanks for your time, it’s much appreciated.

PD: No worries mate.

Follow me on Twitter @jonathanshrager

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MMA Exclusive: Interview Part Deux with Cult MMA Documentarist Genghis Con

JS: Right, so you mentioned that Raphael Assuncao was your first MMA muse. How did you go about initially approaching him with the offer? GC: I shot a few small commercials for American Top Team out here in Atlanta, which is ran by Roan Jucao. I met R…

JS: Right, so you mentioned that Raphael Assuncao was your first MMA muse. How did you go about initially approaching him with the offer?

GC: I shot a few small commercials for American Top Team out here in Atlanta, which is ran by Roan Jucao. I met Raphael at the gym when I was filming a BJJ tournament in which he was competing, and I asked him if I could possibly film some of his training. Without even requesting evidence of my previous work, he liked the idea so I started filming the documentary of him training with his Muay Thai instructor Manu Ntoh.

From there, it just developed naturally, and I ended up capturing his entire training camp, which involved a rigorous training schedule. When I compiled the footage, Raphael loved it, so we put it out there immediately. I thought it looked impressive, so I used this documentary to showcase my work to other fighters. At this stage, there was no financial assistance for the videos. I just did it for the love of the game.

JS: Your story seems to adhere to the popular notion of MMA fighters being most accessible in professional sports?

GC: I agree with that for sure. They grant you access, allow you to film them and reveal all their preparation. That’s virtually unheard of in other sports.

JS: Very true. Do you have plans to branch out from purely MMA documentaries and make films in other areas?

GC: Well actually, I’m planning now to start shooting two different movies pretty soon, one drug movie and one horror movie. Both feature length. The horror movie (a slasher-type movie) is being financially backed, though I can’t really discuss that yet, whilst the drug one I will fund myself on my independent film company (GenghisConFilms). It’s kind of like a Guy Ritchie movie. I’d love for them both to go national, even international. Initially I’ll take the movies to all the local festivals and attempt to get them distributed.

JS: Sounds good. What are the best perks afforded to you by your role as MMA filmmaker?

GC: The best part is travelling and visiting the different states within the US. You do encounter sh*tty accommodation, but depending on the show, you can sometimes be comped really nice, first class hotels. So you can end up chilling, having fun and living for free for a long weekend. When I travel with the South Miami team, we are pretty much part of the same entourage, all staying in the same rooms, for example.

JS: Immense, so at what stage did you contact the South Miami boys with your proposition?

GC: Well, after I filmed Raphael Assuncao, then I filmed some stuff with Douglas Lima, another Atlanta ATT fighter. From there, I contacted Jorge Masvidal; he invited me out to Miami, so I went and hung out, and connected with the South Miami guys, including coach Juan Carlos. That’s where I met JZ Cavalcante and Jorge Santiago, and we started to film Santiago in the build up to his 2010 fight of the year with Kazuo Misaki. At that stage, we decided to produce videos regularly as opposed to it being merely a one-off. “Miami Hustle” was born.

JS: Ok, and I notice on your Facebook profile that you are now in partnership with Santiago, Masvidal, Vila and Faraldo with your film company?

GC: Yeah, that’s right. We started up “Hustle Productions” together. We all fund the show together. It was pretty expensive at first to produce the shows, but now we are starting to get a little bit of help from MMA-brand sponsors, so it’ll be a lot easier for the second series which is coming soon. I’ll be able to move to Miami for filming.

JS: Ok, so how did you actually make the initial contact with “Gamebred” Masvidal?

GC: Yeah, I hit him up on Facebook, and he remembered me from a highlight video I had made of him from a long time ago. He immediately invited me down to Miami to go party with him, so I got in the car and headed straight to Miami, about a 10 or 11 hour drive. We hit the clubs, he showed me Miami and I filmed some of his training. I have plenty of footage that we didn’t even end up using, because we decided to go ahead and do a proper show and make it something bigger.

JS: So hang on a second, I’m still trying to get my head around this. It’s crazy to think of an elite professional sportsman being so accessible.

GC: I know, huh? I didn’t expect it to be that easy. When I found out it was that easy, I realised that I could potentially hit up anybody to work with.

JS: And so in Miami, he took you out partying?

GC: Yeah, he took me to a couple of strip clubs and some other clubs. I stayed out there in a hotel for around a week, and we were going out every night. Masvidal likes to party a lot, but he’ll still get up to train early. It was great fun.

JS: And with the South Miami boys in particular, it appears that the fighters are super comfortable around you to give you such access-all-areas insight? So evidently, you spend time with them socially also to create this good rapport?

GC: Yeah, I’m great friends with Masvidal, Juan Carlos and Alexis. I’ve stayed at all their places for a while. We’ve travelled together, stayed in the same hotels. So we are friends now also, outside of our working relationship. As part of the entourage, you share in the emotions with the fighters and trainers. So far, it has been all victories, so there’s a happy vibe, and long may it continue.

JS: They must view you as a good luck charm in that case. So Jorge was partying at night and training in the mornings. Was this during an actual training camp for a fight?

GC: Yeah, we captured a lot of that type of footage before he fought Evangelista. He was bit all over the place. For his last fight with KJ Noons is when he started getting everything together and focusing more.

JS: It was highly amusing witnessing him eating an ice-cream sundae for breakfast before training, subverting all the conventional wisdom about wholesome nutrition.

GC: Yeah, Jorge is the opposite of what you’d expect of MMA fighters. Most of them are super-disciplined. Having said that, when Jorge got the call about the KJ Noons fight, he began to change everything around and started seriously training, probably for the first time ever.

JS: OK, and what are your long term goals with “Hustle Productions?” Who knows, maybe one day you can merge the two passions for film and MMA and produce a mainstream blockbuster like “Warrior”?

GC: Yeah, that’d be cool, to do a Lee Murray movie or something, if they don’t come out with it already. And I’m looking forward to seeing “Warrior;” Joel Edgerton and Tom Hardy are both exciting actors. I loved Tom Hardy in that series “The Take” by Martina Cole.

JS: Yeah, I agree with that. OK, so was there any funny off-camera stories involving any of the fighters from your films? Any of them have any other talents?

GC: Ermm, let me think. Not really, everything would be too controversial. In terms of talents, Jorge Masvidal could be a comedian. Everything that guy says is funny. And he doesn’t even have to try to be funny. I don’t think he’s intentionally trying to make you laugh; he’s just very naturally quick and spontaneous. Jorge Santiago is one hell of a surfer, as you see during one of the documentaries. If he wasn’t in MMA, he could probably be in the X-games.

JS: Yes, Masvidal’s personality really shines through in the documentaries. Any random facts about any of the fighters that you have filmed which not many people know?

GC: Well Masvidal loves his McDonalds, a Big Mac meal. I think we captured that on film. Conversely, Alexis Vila hardly eats. He’ll eat like once a day. He’ll go until midnight and then eat some chicken wings, or pizza, then he’s straight, full of energy. He fights at 125, and he only walks around 131. He’s stronger than everybody up to 155. I’ve wrestled with the dude.

JS: Sounds ridiculous. Just returning quickly to “Gamebred,” there’s that scene in which we see him spitting game to the cage girl at MFA. Is he a smooth operator with the “chicas”?

GC: Yeah, he’s always after the ladies. With a pretty overwhelming success. That girl had a nice a*s.

JS: Yeah, she did indeed. She mentioned she had a boyfriend in reaction to Jorge’s advances. So, can I just get your opinions on the future of the fighters you have filmed?

GC: Well, Alexis Vila is about to fight in Bellator’s Bantamweight tournament against Joe Warren. It’ll be a tough fight for Alexis, especially with him moving up from the 125 to the 135 division, but I think he can win and then go on to win the tournament outright. Originally, Alexis planned to remain at 125, especially when he was being informed through his manager that the UFC was on the brink of establishing a 125-pound division, but in the end, it is yet to materialise. Alexis also attempted to get on the latest TUF, but for whatever reason, he wasn’t accepted, probably because of his past (sidenote: Alexis was charged with committing a terrorist act in 2004 and sent to prison for three years).

Alexis needs to make money, so the Bellator option was the most viable. And as soon as he signs with Bellator, a mere two weeks later, the UFC announces that they will set up a flyweight division. When his Bellator contract expires, he hopes to head over to the UFC. I think he’ll dominate this division for sure. When he spars with guys that are ranked in the top five or 10 of the 145lb division, he dominates them. He’s a different species. There is a lack of real talent at 125, and most flyweights avoid Alexis the best they can. Even three of the top five ranked flyweights turned him down. So, he had to move up a weight category to start making money.

JS: WOW, Vila sounds like a beast. And your boy Masvidal is set to face Gilbert Melendez for the lightweight strap?

GC: Yes, this has now been announced officially, but he’s been training for a while already as if he was going to receive this opportunity. I’ll be filming Jorge’s preparations for this fight. Obviously I’m a little biased here but I think it’s a horrible matchup for Melendez to be honest. I think Jorge is the superior striker, and his wresting is insane right now. I think Gilbert will struggle to take Jorge to the mat, and Jorge will pick him apart on the feet. Gilbert seems hard to finish so I think Jorge will take it via decision.

JS: Ok. And are you still following the careers of ex-ATT boys who you’ve filmed, such as Santiago and Cavalcante?

GC: I went up to Imperial Gym for a couple of days and filmed some stuff on Santiago and the rest of the team prior to his fight with Brian Stann, from which I put out a short video entitled “24 Hours with the Champ”, in which Rashad Evans also features. Santiago’s manager wanted me to film it for his sponsors. I ended up putting it on the internet because I liked that one, so I didn’t just want to leave it for Santiago’s sponsors. I have more footage of Santiago and Rashad which I will probably release soon.

I think Jorge will turn it around after the defeat to Stann; I think he was possibly nervous or something. And I’m not sure if “JZ” will have a rematch with Justin Wilcox. “JZ” has been getting screwed around for a long time, as you see on the first episode of “Miami Hustle.” Strikeforce would keep telling him he was scheduled to fight the following month and then cancelling the week prior to the event, and all that type of bullsh*t. Strikeforce had promised fights with KJ Noons and Ryan Healy, both of which never came to fruition. I’m still on good terms with Santiago and Cavalcante, and still talk to them every now and then.

JS: Good stuff. Do you find it complementary that, having pioneered this genre of MMA documentary, others globally are now beginning to emulate this? (I noticed an Italian dude called Alessandro post his vid about Sakara to your Facebook wall). Must feel good to inspire others.

GC: Yeah, it’s pretty cool. It helps promote the sport and the videos when people are looking for this style of video. It also feels great when people compliment my videos and the music I use. Many people have told me that I inspired them to try and produce some highlight-reel videos, which is cool. Anybody who has asked me for information, I’ve always been willing to give tips.

I look up to Robert Rodriguez, who did the same thing. He started out on his own, made his own films, built up his own empire and gives out tips to everybody. I wanted to be the same, remain accessible to the people who’ve been watching my videos from day one. Just like how the fighters helped me by giving me access. I’m a regular dude, so I don’t want to act aloof because my films have proven quite popular. I respond to everyone on Facebook.

JS: I like your philosophy. Have you ever received any interest/attention off anyone notable, not even necessarily from within MMA?

GC: Generally, I get positive feedback from MMA celebrities. But since we released the “Miami Hustle” trailers last year, we met with a lot of prestigious labels from Hollywood, including “Lin Pictures”, but a deal wasn’t able to be struck. We also sat down with the Executive Producer from the “Survivor” series. And some TV company in Texas. Ultimately though, nothing materialised, and that’s why we ended up putting everything out online.

JS: Well, thanks for the interview, I enjoyed chatting with you.

GC: Cheers man, same here.

Follow on Genghis on Twitter @GenghisConFIlms

Follow me on Twitter @jonathanshrager

The release date for Season 1, Episode 3 of “Miami Hustle” is yet to be confirmed

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

BAMMA 7: Live Play-by-Play Analysis and Results Report

BAMMA 7
Here we go:
Main Event
185 lbs.: Frank Trigg vs. Jim Wallhead
Main Card:
176 lbs.: Paul Daley vs. Jordan Radev
155 lbs.: Diego Vital vs. Rob Sinclair
185 lbs.: Jack Marshman vs. Carl Noon
155 lbs.: Andre Winner vs. Jason Ball
Undercard:
155 lbs…

BAMMA 7

Here we go:

Main Event

185 lbs.: Frank Trigg vs. Jim Wallhead

Main Card:

176 lbs.: Paul Daley vs. Jordan Radev

155 lbs.: Diego Vital vs. Rob Sinclair

185 lbs.: Jack Marshman vs. Carl Noon

155 lbs.: Andre Winner vs. Jason Ball

Undercard:

155 lbs.: Jeremy Petley vs. Chris Fishgold

140 lbs.: James Brum vs. Erik Perez

185 lbs.: Eugene Fadiora vs. Robert Devanne

155 lbs.: Pindi Madahar vs.Danny Compton

155 lbs.: Dale Hardiman vs. Scott Jansen

170 lbs.: Lee Taylor vs. Tom Breese

170 lbs.: Dean Amasinger vs. Shah Hussein

205 lbs.: Fraser Opie vs. Robert Krecicki

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

MMA Interview: Paul Daley on Radev, UKMMA, BAMMA, Marquardt, Zuffa, Dana and Kos

Breaking News: Simply become a fan of the BAMMA Facebook fanpage and catch the BAMMA 7 prelims and main card for free this Saturday, 10th September JS: Afternoon Paul, cheers for speaking today….In terms of your wrestling, most people obser…

Breaking News: Simply become a fan of the BAMMA Facebook fanpage and catch the BAMMA 7 prelims and main card for free this Saturday, 10th September

JS: Afternoon Paul, cheers for speaking today….In terms of your wrestling, most people observed that there has been a marked improvement during the time between fighting Koscheck and Woodley. This must instil a lot of confidence heading into a bout against a decorated wrestler like Radev?

PD: Yes, definitely,” Daley recently told BleacherReport.com. “I think it’s styles as well, there are different styles of wrestling, and I believe Radev’s wrestling is slightly easier to deal with than a Koscheck or a Woodley’s. There are differences between freestyle wrestling, and American collegiate wrestling, with distinct entrances to the shots, different tie-ups up top. However, Radev presents a lot of different problems in that he possesses heavy hands and appears much more willing to trade in order to set his shots up. Koscheck and Woodley were both making their shots off the back foot, because they were scared to trade, whereas I think Radev will punch his way into a clinch or a shot.

JS: Ok, as you continue to improve your defensive wrestling, is it likely we’ll see you begin to incorporate some of your own offensive wrestling into your game?

PD: I have offensive wrestling, but I only employ it when necessary. I never enter the cage with the intention of wrestling someone, no matter who it is. Striking will always be what I attempt to perform first. I have utilised wrestling in previous fights, for example I took Jorge Masvidal down to the mat, and the same with John Alessio, even in the first round. So, there are fights when I’ve shot in and completed a double-leg takedown, against Ross Mason and Sol Gilbert to name but a couple, but it’s just not my bread and butter. I’ll always come out to stand and trade.

JS: Ultimately, does the buzz of delivering a KO outweigh any other aspect of the MMA game for you?

PD: For me, striking is more interesting. Wrestling is a great sport which requires a lot of strength and power, and there can be some beauty to it, but for me personally, I believe striking and BJJ, would you believe, has a lot more art to it. I know if you look deep into wrestling, you’ll see throw-behinds and arm-drags, and there are plenty of technicalities, but I just believe the artform of striking and BJJ is just more aesthetically pleasing to the casual viewer.

JS: Absolutely. Ok, how come you’ve never followed the Dan Hardy path of relocating to the US to train?

PD: No, I don’t see the benefit of training in the US. There are a bunch of fighters I’ve beaten that have lived and trained permanently in the US, and conversely, there are a bunch of guys I’ve lost to that have never trained in the US. I don’t think the US is the hub it used to be back in the day when I went over to American Top Team. I’m just happy to train where I can ensure the best sparring and instruction, and also where I feel the most comfortable. And for me, that isn’t in the US right now. Though, I do fly my American wrestling coach over to the UK because I’d much prefer to hold my training camps over here.

JS: Ok, I recently spoke to Tom Watson and he alluded to the better quality of training that one can progressively find in the UK. Aside from your own comfortableness and convenience, does the increasing calibre of training partners warrant remaining here?

PD: I think the overall standard is constantly improving in the UK so there are great guys to train with. Generally, the calibre is certainly improving in the UK, but that’s not the main cause for me basing myself here. Sometimes, I’ll fly guys over here to train, and I do travel to get different looks, but not necessarily to the US. I often point out to my fellow British fighters that America isn’t the hub it used to be. There’s great training to be found in the UK, Europe and elsewhere.

JS: Ok, as a British MMA fan, that’s encouraging to hear. I’ve heard you claim in the past that it’s a bad idea to step inside the cage with you. Is it an even worse proposition for Radev in light of his 15-month layoff?

PD: Each fighter is an individual. He’s trained in Holland and his mentality will be pretty much the same as mine. He’s a fighter’s fighter who loves to fight. He’s going to come out and bring it. 15 months layoff or not, he’s a born fighter. Let me put it this way, if you’re walking down the street and some guy starts trying to touch up your girlfriend, you aren’t going to think to yourself, well I can’t smash this guy up because I haven’t trained for 15 months. You know, a fight’s a fight. That’s the mentality I convey to my fans, and it fuels the way I fight. That’s why I admire guys like Nick Diaz, Chris Lytle and Dan Henderson, who just get in there and willing to mix it up. For me that’s the most entertaining aspect of the sport, and it’s why the fans particularly love to see these kind of fighters perform.

JS: Obviously, we’ve heard British fighters complain before when wrestlers have just stifled them inside the cage to eke out a marginal victory. Will you begrudge Radev if he inflicts this style on you come Saturday night?

PD: Well. I’ve lost to wrestlers before. I’m always out there to fight. To me, wrestling is more of a transitional tool than a fighting technique. There are no real finishes in wrestling, like there are in striking and BJJ. If somebody wants to defeat me via a transitional tool, then that’s their prerogative, but I guarantee I’ll have more people asking for my autograph as I leave the arena for the flying knees, spinning elbows or headkicks that I’ve showcased. I’m an entertaining fighter, that’s what I do. I’m not a transitional fighter that turns up to score points. I turn up to knock motherf*ckers out, and that’s what I’ll do this weekend.

JS: Sounds ominous for Radev. Ok, in terms of your career since leaving the UFC, you have successively fought a spate of top-quality fighters, and that trend doesn’t appear to be relenting towards the end of 2011, with Radev, Fioravanti, and potentially Nate Marquardt lined up. Are you someone who exemplifies that there is life outside the UFC for MMA fighters?

PD: There always has been, and guys before me have proven this. People just buy into the UFC spin. Guys like Jeremy Horn who has had over 100 fights, guys like Travis Fulton who has had over 250 fights, guys like Jeff Monson, Ricco Rodriguez and Andrei Arlovski all still competing outside of the UFC. It’s a myth that there’s no life outside of the UFC. Don’t get me wrong, the UFC title is like the WBC title of MMA, but when Muhammad Ali or Ricky Hatton lose that title, they don’t just necessarily hang up their gloves. They continue to fight and earn their money, because it’s the sport that funds and drives them, not the UFC, and not Zuffa. And that’s what these budding MMA fighters must remember, the UFC doesn’t encapsulate all of MMA, and there are opportunities out there to make money in the sport outside of it. I’m a good example.

JS: Ok, and given the quality of opponent against whom you’re competing in BAMMA, do you think it will arrive to a point where holding the BAMMA title is even more highly-respected within the world of MMA?

PD: It’s nice to have belts in the trophy cabinet, but for me the significance lies in fighting top competition. That needs to be the driving force behind the sport, just putting on good fights. And due to the competition from MMA, the boxers are realising this. At the end of the day, fight fans love to watch good fights, irrespective of what title is on the line. Everyone loved the Micky Ward vs Arturro Gatti fights, those kind of wars that people remember for years and that go down in history. Who really enjoyed the Audley Harrison vs David Haye debacle? Or seeing Klitschko jab David Haye to death? No, they remembered the epic fights. It’s not the titles that are on the line, it’s the two people in there putting it on the line.

JS: Ok, but what are your thoughts generally on fighting for BAMMA?

PD: BAMMA is a great promotion doing great things, and it is growing to the stage where it’s receiving enough coverage in the press and TV that it is going to be widely recognised. Most people in the UK will soon be aware of the promotion, and it’ll become a household name. For the up-and-coming UK fighters, or for foreign fighters that are looking for good money, exposure and competition, then BAMMA can provide that. My managers mainly deal with Head of Business Development Liam Fisher, who is evidently doing a great job with BAMMA, and is a cool, approachable guy, like all the employees that represent the promotion.

JS: Great. Ok, it was predicted that it could get a bit heated between yourself and Nate Marquardt at today’s press conference. How’s the situation there?

PD: Yeah, he’s right next to me. We haven’t really said anything much to each other, but the press conference is about to commence so we shall see what happens. There was no issue really with Nate. I just stated that I didn’t agree with his use of banned substances, which he attributed to a testosterone deficiency, but he has previously been caught out with PEDs. He’s obviously using TRT as a performance enhancer, so he just should own up to it, admit it, and then move on.

JS: Ok, as you have alluded to, BAMMA does have the ability to attract top talent from around the globe. Given this, are there any other welterweights in particular that you have an issue with, or that you would like to fight?

PD: Not particularly. I just fight to fight the top guys. I’ll always fight the toughest guys, and most matchmakers will attest to this. Generally, when I get offered fights, I’ll be given a list of guys’ names, and I’ll pick the toughest of the bunch. I don’t go for the one with the highest profile, or the one that appears the easiest adversary on paper, I’ll simply pick the toughest, irrespective of whether they’re established or rising through the ranks.

JS: That’s a refreshing mentality these days. I caught an interview with you earlier during the week in which you allude to your current frequency of fighting. There’s the distinctive stat that since your fight with Koscheck, he has fought once, whereas this will be your seventh visit to the cage. Can you earn as much money fighting regularly outside the UFC as fighting 3 times annually in the UFC?

PD: Yes possibly, or maybe even more. It depends on the promotion, it depends on your sponsors and how loyal they are, and the budget they’re willing to dedicate to you, which is usually relative to the amount of publicity a fight can garner. It depends, I’ve received purses that are less than I could earn fighting for the UFC, and I’ve received purses that match or exceed what I could earn fighting for the UFC.

JS: Ok, you’ve stated on numerous occasions you love fighting in front of your beloved UK fans. It must also be great to be fighting alongside your Team Rough House boys this weekend, including Andre Winner, Jimmy Wallhead and Dean Amasinger?

PD: Absolutely. We haven’t fought together on the same show for a long time. I’m particularly happy for Jimmy. He’s someone that helps us all out getting prepared during camps, whilst not receiving as much exposure himself, so it’s nice that Jimmy is the main event on the card. When I accepted this fight, I was adamant that Jimmy’s bout with Trigg remains as the main event. Jimmy deserves a lot of credit for his role in helping other fighters get ready for their matchups, and he’s a tough guy who doesn’t get enough recognition. It’s going to be a Team Rough House clean sweep, just like the old days when we were all on the rise within MMA.

JS: Good man. I recently interviewed Rob “C-4” Sinclair, BAMMA lightweight champion who is taking on Leonardo Santos at BAMMA 7. He spoke in length about his admiration for you, and that he in fact based his nickname on yours, with “C-4” being another type of plastic explosive. That must be flattering?

PD: Oh yes. I actually read that on his pre-BAMMA 7 blog, and I was surprised and happy to hear that, especially from a talented fighter like Rob. It’s nice to hear anything positive about yourself in the press, especially when it comes from another athlete. It’s really a testament to my team. And best of luck to Rob on Saturday.

JS: You must be proud to be one of the original pioneers and current spearheads of UK MMA? That’s something that people will remember forever.

PD: Yes, it is something that I do think about, and I think it’ll be strange that people will look back upon my fights in a decade’s time and view them as classics, but it’s really cool, and I do appreciate and understand my responsibility of trying to advance MMA within this country.

JS: Ok, I’m curious as to why you aren’t on Twitter? You’d be great on there

PD: Ah, I don’t do Twitter, I just stick to Facebook. It has more content, and a billion users, and it has just hit China so it could be the way forward. If it ever dries up, I’ll move across to Twitter. A lot of people say it’d be a great tool for me, and that I’d get a lot of followers, and I will eventually make an official Twitter account, and I’ll inform everybody at the time on Semtex TV (http://semtex.tv/). It’s not my PR man advising me against it in case I put my foot in it, it’s purely out of choice.

JS: Ok, cool. What’s your current situation with Strikeforce, Zuffa and Dana White?

PD: Well, my Strikeforce contract has just been renewed til January 2013. I’m actually signed to “Forza”, which is a subsidiary of Zuffa. I’m in the family somewhere along the line.

JS: And how come you’ve managed to secure a non-exclusive contract with Strikeforce?

PD: I don’t think there’ll be any more non-exclusive contracts being signed with Strikeforce from now on. Obviously, I signed with Strikeforce before the Zuffa buyout, and they have to uphold all contracts. I got lucky, and it will now stand right up to 2013. It’s nice to know that I’m still signed to the organisation, even though they can kick me out at any time they want, so it is a little precarious.

JS: Does this also infer that Dana White is more tolerant towards you now?

PD: I don’t know to be honest. I don’t speak to Dana. I think Lorenzo Fertitta likes me. He always makes time for me, and he’s a cool guy. I think Lorenzo plays a significant role in mediating between Dana and a lot of the guys within the organisation, including Overeem. I always hear good things about Lorenzo across the board, including from my fellow fighters, whereas you’re more likely to hear a few negative remarks about Dana. There’s an element of good cop-bad cop in terms of the role that they both play.

JS: You and Dana are evidently both headstrong characters, so do you think a clash was inevitable at some juncture? It’s almost ironic that the trait which initially appealed to Dana, your aggression, ultimately lead to you butting heads.

PD: I don’t think so necessarily. Even before the Koscheck incident, Dana had hinted that he didn’t like my attitude. The thing with Dana is that he’s such a fight-fan, and he always appreciates a good fight, regardless of who takes part in it. I think his love for fighting has almost merged into his character. Personally, I don’t think that he’s much of a fighter really, but he does love watching a good fight.

JS: Do you think that your “bad boy” outward public image has been overhyped? Are there times you have used it to your advantage? Do you sometimes thrive on it?

PD: Yeah, I do think a lot of it is overhyped. I’m very direct, and certain people construe my honesty in different ways. I say what I feel, and I speak the truth as I see it. You can either interpret my words on face value, or twist them into something else. Some people like me for it, others don’t, like “Marmite” I guess. Sometimes I may use it to my advantage. I like to hype things up at a weigh-in. But generally, it’s just the way I am. I think things can sound different in the written and spoken word. People may read this interview, and feel that half the interview is too blunt, but if people heard me then they’d probably interpret me differently. A lot of the interviews written about me sound bad, but in recorded interviews I tend to convey myself well.

JS: Ok, to end on a question which you must get asked during virtually every single interview. I’m sure you’ve already guessed it. With the benefit of hindsight do you feel any regret at all for Koscheck incident? Cantona said he didn’t regret hitting Simmons. Obviously, you possess one punch KO power, so were you not punching to KO him?

PD: haha, yeah I guessed it. Everything happens for a reason, and I’m happy to be where I’m at now. And maybe my UFC career would have imploded in some other way had I stayed there. Even though it wasn’t planned, my departure turned out pretty well for me, as it made me quite infamous with the US fans. Overall, I’m happy with my short-lived UFC run. I went in there, I blasted out two guys, lost a boring fight, but made it exciting in the end, so I left how I entered.

JS: It kind of reminds me a little of the Eric Cantona controversy, when he Kung-Fu kicked the fan. To this day, he claims he doesn’t regret the incident. Now, you’re a man renowned for one-punch KO power, so…

PD: Oh, am I upset I didn’t knock him out. Mike Passenier and Melvin Manhoef both rang me after the fight and said “What you doing, you idiot? You’re out of the UFC. Paul you’re embarrassing, you’re supposed to be my understudy, and you didn’t knock him out.” They were Melvin’s words and I just laughed. It’s not something I really consider. I don’t wish I had knocked him out with the punch after the bell, it was dumb. The punch landed how it was supposed to land, and it’s all over now so it’s all good.

JS: Ok cool, cheers for your time today.

PD: No worries dude.

Follow me on Twitter @jonathanshrager

Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com

MMA Gold: Interviewer Skippy, AKA Ed Bassmaster, Discusses UFC 133 Experience

Introduction:
Mind the oxymoron, but Ed Bassmaster is a “seriously funny” human being. A man of many guises, this online sensation has a cult following in his hometown of Philadelphia, and is potentially on the cusp of nationwide US mainstr…

Introduction:

Mind the oxymoron, but Ed Bassmaster is a “seriously funny” human being. A man of many guises, this online sensation has a cult following in his hometown of Philadelphia, and is potentially on the cusp of nationwide US mainstream media recognition.

It’s a recognition that his comedic talent certainly merits. Boasting a modest 51,000 Facebook fans (http://www.facebook.com/OfficialEdBassmaster), and 9,000 followers on Twitter (http://twitter.com/edbassmaster) belies the fact that his plethora of sidesplitting alter-egos have amassed millions upon millions of YouTube views over recent years.

Indeed, Ed perfectly captures the essence of an eclectic array of eccentric caricatures including the lovable rogue “Skippy,” the articulate “Mumbles,” the delightful “Hacker,” the homie “Teste,” the testosterone-fuelled “Emilio” and inimitable sister “Tequila” (http://www.youtube.com/user/edbassmaster). A veritable ensemble of idiosyncratic individuals you’d be proud to take home to meet the parents.

I first encountered Ed as arguably his most revered character, the legend that is “Skippy”, when the globe’s largest MMA promotion descended upon Pennsylvania for UFC 133. It was an opportune moment for Señor Bassmaster to stitch up half of the UFC’s employers and employees, comprising the likes of top execs Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta, to fighters Rashad Evans and Matt Serra, and other integral parts of the company like behind-the-scenes liaison officer Burt Watson and octagon-girl Chandella Powell. His two ensuing videos are quite simply must-see material for any MMA fan. I subsequently decided to track Ed down in order to quiz him about his UFC 133 access-all-areas experience;

Interview:

JS: Hi Ed, I saw your hilarious UFC 133 Skippy YouTube videos and felt compelled to contact you, the person, in order to obtain your thoughts on the whole experience. So you first met Dana before UFC 133 at the Preston and Steve radio show. Did you already know these radio presenters, and had you pre-arranged access into the building?

EB: Yes, I also appear on their show once in a while, and they are familiar with me. In fact, they generally let me on the show whenever I want to, there’s no set schedule. It’s just random, I’ll call regularly to find out who’s going to be on the show, and if it’s an interesting person then I’ll just turn up and improv. I actually had two tickets for the UFC 133 event, so I thought to spontaneously give the guys a call to find out whether any UFC characters would be dropping by to promote the event, and the producer informed me that the very next day Dana White would be featuring. He invited me to come along and mess with Dana a little. So we took the opportunity, and Dana didn’t have a clue he was being set up. He told me afterwards that he had never seen Skippy, or any of my other characters online. I kind of just bombarded him in the green room, the waiting room before the show started. I caught him off guard, and approached without really even asking if I could have an interview. Afterwards, I discovered that he thought Skippy was kinda “special”, so he felt bad for him, and that’s why he was giving him the time of day.

JS: Haha, absolutely. That must be part of the appeal with Skippy, the fact that he’s a bit “special”, but very endearing and that’s why people are very accommodating towards him. Ok, so briefly run through how you managed to gain access-all-areas pass to UFC 133?

EB: Well after the interview, Dana and I talked. He thought it was funny, and thought it would be hilarious if I came to the event dressed as Skippy, and he set the whole thing up. He actually hooked me up with as many tickets as I wanted, so I brought along 8 friends, and he sorted out floor tickets for us all.

JS: That’s immense. Okay, evidently you are hugely popular online. Have you ever been approached by a network to produce a show?

EB: I’ve been approached a few times, but I don’t really discuss it a lot because in the early stages anything could happen, and a lot of things fall through for different reasons. I’ve had several talks with various production companies. It’s usually the production companies that make the initial contact, because if they help produce a show, they will subsequently pitch it to the networks. Right now, I’m talking with a production company in Los Angeles that produces a very popular show that airs on a major US network, and they want to begin pitching a show for me. That bodes well. Basically, we’ve already started filming, and it’s in the beginning stages, but I don’t tend to mention it much, just in case a network doesn’t decide to pick it up. The show is in development, and the production company is producing a reel for it right now. But, I haven’t really told my Facebook fans because I don’t want them to get excited prematurely.

JS: Great. Presumably, the show stars all the characters that have turned you into an online marvel?

EB: Yeah, it’s basically what I do on YouTube with a reality element incorporated, because it will be filming the behind-the-scenes footage of my pranks. It’s essentially a reality show based around my life, how I set up the pranks, hidden camera footage, and following me during my day-to-day life as Ed hanging out with my family.

JS: Sounds fantastic. Moving back onto the UFC now, you already had two tickets before meeting Dana, so you’re obviously a fan?

EB: Yes, definitely. I’ve been watching MMA for around 14 years. In fact, even before then. I was hooked since I watched UFC 1. I don’t get time to read a lot online about MMA, but I do go on CagePotato every once in a while, or UFC.com. But mainly, I just watch the fights.

JS: Yes, I’m a fan of CagePotato too. So this wasn’t a case of having to research everything before you conducted the prank? Have you attended an event live previously?

EB: No, I didn’t need to research this one. I knew who everybody was and I was quite familiar with what was going on, which was kinda neat. However, it was my first live event, because it was only the second time the UFC has made it to Philadelphia, and I’ve never had the chance to catch one in Vegas or any other cities. I didn’t want to go to a UFC event unless I was near the cage, because I’d prefer to watch it on the big-screen at home. And even after attending the event, and sitting cageside, I would still say the view is better on TV.

JS: Ok, so consequently, as an old-school MMA fan, it must have been a big deal to meet all the UFC stars? Given that you characters provide a barrier, would you have been more nervous meeting them initially as Ed than Skippy?

EB: It was huge man, very exciting. I’ve met a few celebrities through this whole YouTube odyssey, but this was the most exciting for me. In terms of nerves, meeting these high-profile guys as Ed or Skippy makes no difference to me. I’m a pretty laidback guy, I’m easy-going and I don’t get intimidated very easily so meeting these people doesn’t really faze me. I do a lot of fishing also, and I got the opportunity to fish with my favourite professional bass fisherman Mike Iaconelli over here in the US, and to me that was more exciting than hanging out with Sean Penn.

JS: Fair enough, that makes sense. And did Dana authorise you to interview fighters at literally any time?

EB: The way it worked was, we were sitting down, and Dana’s assistant approached us when Dana wanted to see us. He informed us that Dana wanted us to prank Lorenzo Fertitta because he had no idea who we were. So, we went into the suite and filmed that segment. When we were finished, Dana told his camera guy to take us around the locker rooms to interview some of the fighters. I sent Dana the clips a couple of days later to gain his authorisation that I could put the material out on YouTube, and make sure it was cool with Lorenzo, and he text me back immediately to give me the go-ahead. I’ve actually chatted to Dana a few times since UFC 133, just small-talk, and he gave me his address so I could send him out a Skippy shirt. It’s kinda neat to be corresponding with a guy that’s as busy as he is.

JS: That’s very cool Ed. What struck me the most about your “carte blanche” backstage pass was the fact that you were permitted to interview certain fighters, like Tito and Rashad, before the fights, and the main event at that. That’s incredible really, because one would presume that the organization wouldn’t burden the fighters with any pre-fight commitments as they are getting in the zone.

EB: Well, Dana told his camera guy to take us around to interview all the fighters that had won already, and all of a sudden this guy was just taking us into every locker-room. I think Mike Brown was the only fighter that I interviewed who had just won. Both Rashad and Tito hadn’t fought yet, and like you, I thought that was insane, because these guys were in fight-mode. I mean, they don’t do regular interviews pre-fight, let alone being pranked, so it was crazy that this guy was giving us access. I don’t know how Dana White felt about that, because he didn’t say anything after seeing the video. All I know is that he found the video hilarious.

JS: Absolutely, it’s unbelievable but worked out brilliantly. For those you interviewed and revealed pre-fight (like Tito), I think the laughter probably helped to alleviate their pre-fight stress a little. Okay, so how come you decided to use “Skippy” for UFC event, and not one of your other characters?

EB: Well, I did “Skippy” on a whim at the radio station with Dana, there was no real reason behind it. I guess I just thought that “Skippy” was the right man for the job. And also, Dana is a smart guy, so he might have called my bluff had I pranked him as “Mumbles”, since “Mumbles” is generally a less believable character. I realized I may be able to secure more footage with “Skippy”. Dana White fell in love with the “Skippy” character, so didn’t want me to enact my other characters.

JS: Ok, and is Skippy your favourite character to play?

EB: I don’t really have a particular favourite, but “Skippy” is right up there. He’s probably one of the most popular, and most requested.

JS: Yes, I can imagine that. I’ve subsequently watched all your characters but I’m a fan of “Skippy” in particular. He’s immense. Obviously, it’d be difficult to pull of the “Skippy” prank again as most of the MMA community are now aware of the lovable rogue. If you were to be granted UFC access again which of your other alter-egos would you adopt?

EB: Yeah, a lot of people have asked if I’m going to do any more UFC stuff. Depending on how many people in the UFC saw that video, it’s obviously going to be impossible to prank somebody with the same thing over. In terms of alternate characters, I’d probably opt for the “look at this” guy (“Emilio”) because he’s so flamboyant, and totally the opposite of any other MMA interviewer. You don’t see any guys like “Emilio” in the fighting world, no writers or commentators look like him.

JS: Haha, indeed. His campness would prove distinctive in the macho environment of MMA. Ok, so before you alluded to the contact you’ve had with Dana since UFC 133. Has he, or anyone within organization, suggested you can do anything else with the UFC?

EB: Well, Dana had a woman from his media department contact me and ask if I’d like to work with the UFC in the future, helping promote events. I keenly expressed an interest, but we haven’t followed it up yet. We didn’t really discuss in what capacity I would be required, so I’m not too sure about how exactly they’d utilise me. Even though it wouldn’t be a prank per se, because most UFC people are probably familiar with “Skippy” now, I think it would be funny to have “Skippy” go to the events and conduct interviews, almost like Ariel Helwani does. It may not be quite as effective, but it’d still be funny, and we could catch a few people out.

JS: Yes absolutely, even when people are aware of “Skippy”, he’s such a lovable character that it could work. Have any other opportunities arisen from this UFC exposure? Is this the most amount of exposure you’ve received in one hit?

EB: As of yet, nothing has emerged. And I’m yet to hear about what the fighters thought about the final output, though I’d love to hear their feedback. In terms of exposure, the UFC video has accumulated around 200,000 hits, but I have a couple of YouTube videos that have around 6-8 million views a piece. They’re back in the archives.

JS: WOW, okay, did Lorenzo take you up on that massage off-camera? How was the hug from Rashad?

EB: Haha, no he didn’t. The hug from Rashad was amazing, I was totally blown away by that. Nicest guy I’ve probably ever met in my life, very sincere. He was just so laidback and relaxed. Once again, he thought “Skippy” was special and treated him very kindly. That really took me off guard, and I have a lot of respect for Rashad. I’ve been a big fan of his since season 1 of “The Ultimate Fighter”, and I was actually pulling for him to win against Tito. Just to see that side of him was really cool, and made me an even bigger fan.

JS: Yes, it was particularly special in light of the fact that he was literally moments away from stepping into the Octagon. Okay, where do I get hold of a “Skippy” shirt?

EB: It’s a website called “District Lines” (http://www.districtlines.com/Ed-Bassmaster/T-Shirts). It’s my own brand, and includes a “Skippy” T-shirt, “Mumbles” and a “Brady Bunch”-style collage of all the characters in the vlogs.

JS: Haha, immense. I was actually referring to the “Skippy” Hawaiian number that he rocks during filming. You’d see a lot of people turning up to UFC events with “Skippy” shirts in order to pay homage to the legend. In fact, you could also launch a “Mumbles” cowboy hat, and “Skippy” glasses. Can you actually see through those glasses?

EB: Hahaha, that’d be awesome. I can’t see through the glasses, and that’s why I do take them off as often as possible, because they hurt my eyes bad. There’s no alternative, there are no other glasses that magnify your eyes in that fashion without messing up your vision, so you’ve just gotta do it.

JS: Haha, okay, did you reveal the prank to everyone you spoke to, because from the video it seemed like you didn’t have a chance to (e.g. with Burt Watson, Charles Barkley, Rashad, Kenny)?

EB: With Rashad, I did hand him a YouTube card to reveal the prank, but one of his trainers appeared from the backroom to summons him. It all happened real quick, I showed him the card, he started to laugh and shook my hand, and then he was pulled away by one of his trainers. He appreciated the joke, but it wasn’t as funny as some of the other reactions (specifically Matt Serra) because it was interrupted, so I chose to leave it out. With Kenny, he was sitting in front of us during the fights, and he heard “Skippy” yelling “Kick his ass” throughout the fights. Kenny and his friend kept laughing, and I don’t think he had any idea what was going on. I then approached Kenny and handed him one of my YouTube cards. Afterwards, I saw him in the hallway and captured the footage, but I’m not sure if he knew what was going on. It was only a brief interview because someone was rushing him to go and do another interview. With Burt Watson, we just walked away, haha. In the end, we were walking around real fast and just stopping people randomly as went along. Same situation with Charles Barkley.

JS: Haha, you called him Morgan Freeman then just walked away, ingenious. Okay, and in your opinion, who reacted the best to being Punk’d? Who found it the most funny? Who was the most awkward?

EB: Matt Serra provided the best reaction definitely. I didn’t get the awkward vibe off anyone. Everyone that we let off the hook laughed and found it amusing. With Lorenzo, I don’t think he was 100% sure what was happening, even when Dana grabbed me and burst out laughing, and I revealed the prank to him. I mean, here’s a guy who’s a billionaire, has probably never been pranked in this way before, so was a little out of his element.

JS: Haha, absolutely. Conversely, Dana loves a prank so this worked perfectly. Moving onto Chandella, is she your favourite ring-girl? Would you rather have “scored” with Arianny or Brittney?

EB: Haha, yeah, she’s my favourite, she was very sweet to “Skippy”. In all reality, I’m a fight fan, so I don’t even pay that much attention to the ring girls.

JS: Haha, okay, well you’re a married man so we’ll leave it there, as I don’t want to get you into any trouble here. How did the fans at cage-side react to “Skippy”?

EB: Everybody tends to react to “Skippy” like they feel a bit sorry for him. With it being my hometown of Philly, there were a lot of people that recognised me. Even from the parking lot to the front door I was stopped several times by fans. When I was inside the arena, I could hear people yelling out “Skippy” from the stands, so I would stop for pictures as I was walking by. Most people that recognise me tend to ask for a picture.

JS: Great. And finally, obviously not many of us get granted the behind-the-scenes access apart from the snippets of Dana White Vlogs. How was the backstage UFC experience? Is it as manic as it looks?

EB: Yes, it is manic back there. There are people running around everywhere. Definitely a crazy scene.

JS: Okay, well thanks for your time Ed, it’s been a pleasure. I hope to hear big things from you in the future.

EB: Thanks Jonny, I appreciate it.

Follow Ed on Twitter @edbassmaster

Follow me on Twitter @jonathanshrager

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