Issue 102
June 2013
From grappling with Randy Couture, to fighting for Kobe Bryant and eating supper with Jesus Christ – here’s ‘The Phenom’s best bits
BEST MOMENT SO FAR?
“My best career moment is today. After 17 years of a career I’m still fighting at the top of the food chain against some of the best competitors. Today is most certainly my best moment.”
BEST THING ABOUT MMA?
“You’re always learning and watching the sport grow alongside you. I don’t think we’ve even achieved 10% of what we can achieve yet. There’s a potential to achieve the maximum amount we can in this sport and we’re not even at 10% yet.”
WHAT’S BEST, KNOCKOUT OR SUBMISSION?
“I’ve had a lot of knockouts and I’ve had a few submissions too, in my time. I’d have to say that they both feel great, if I’m honest. I love the feeling of both, so I can’t really pick between the two. Both of them give you a fantastic feeling.”
BEST OPPONENT?
“I’ve had so many good opponents that it’s quite tough to pick just one (laughs). Randy Couture was a guy who really was the definition of a fighter and a respectful athlete. He really was one of the very best opponents I ever faced.”
BEST FIRST FIGHT MEMORY?
“My first fight was against Jon Hess in Hawaii. The whole LA Lakers team was there including Kobe Bryant and all those guys. I was just a kid at the time and it was a great experience, a memory that I’ll never forget.”
BEST WAY TO GET PUMPED?
“I don’t think there’s any way that you can get me more pumped up than I already am (laughs). My motivation comes from inside of me, it comes from the inner me not the outside. Some people need other things to get them pumped, but I talk myself up. I motivate myself. My motivation comes from inside.”
BEST ADVICE FOR A YOUNGER YOU?
“I would tell myself that no matter what happens God is in control in every situation. It doesn’t matter how your day has been, God is in control. He’s the master of the ship. I’d remind myself of that.”
BEST DINNER PARTY GUESTS?
“I only need one person and that would be Jesus, I’d like to have a supper with him. Actually, he’s with me all of the time, but one day I’d like to be up there with him and the disciples.”
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