Issue 019
November 2006
Catching up with . . .
Alex ‘Reidernator’ Reid (7-4-1) of London Shootfighters is as known for his dazzling entrances and ‘interesting’ ring attire as he is for his balls-to-the-wall style of fighting and acting fame. A veteran of mixed martial arts, he fought on some of the earliest events in the UK and is now a regular on Cage Rage.
Describe your fighting style in a few words
Relentless, determined, stand up, go forward.
What is your perfect ring entrance?
(Laughs) Tight, seductive, sparkly spandex.
What is your perfect after show party?
I’d want all my friends around, absolutely everyone. As the night goes on, get rid of the family and let the bad boy come out. For 8 weeks I’ve been a Shaolin monk – disciplined. After I’ve got all the nice bits out of the way, jelly & ice cream, musical chairs, I want to be a bit of a bad boy. The old ‘Seedinator’! (Laughs)
What's the most important lesson that you've learnt from the fight game?
The thing being a pro fighter has given me is a never say die attitude. It’s taught me to keep going, keep trying. When you’re feeling crap and miserable, keep going. I’ll deal with it, no matter what happens.
How important is it to have a good sense of humour as a fighter?
For me, it’s essential. It’s an ex-army type of thing. In the face of danger and when you’re scared, it gets you through; it’s like a pressure gauge. I think it’s great! When you do silly things it lets off steam. But I am all business when it comes down to it. I don't think people see me as too much of a clown – it’s just a mask!
Do your parents think you're crazy?
They used to worry about me all the time. They do think I’m crazy, turning my back on a promising acting career to pursue martial arts. I had to give up martial arts to pursue my acting career, but I missed all the glory, seeing Mark Weir doing all of his stuff, all the other guys. I’ve been in hospital more times than I’ve had hot dinners – I’m always down there, I’ve got my own bed in the hospital! I’ve had every injury going, but that's the same with any fighter. I don't think I’m crazy, I think I’m saner than a lot of people.
Which do you prefer? Cars or Motorbikes?
Cars. I used to like motorbikes, but cars are safer… I’m a bit older now!
What kind of creative things do you get up to?
I’m an actor. Having been in a few things, films and soaps, I miss that. I don't crave fame, but I used to. The reason I got into acting is because I enjoy pretending to be someone, but then the celebrity thing gets in the way of it. I’ve started writing, one day I’d like to direct. I’ve got some brilliant ideas on the go. A Rocky-type film, but MMA orientated. I’m gonna do it! It’s fascinating!
Are there any screen villains you'd like to fight?
Only if I had super-powers myself… I grew up on superheroes, comic books – I’d like to fight Dr Doom, but I’d need superpowers as well!
How did you get your nickname?
I never named myself! At first I thought, “That’s a bit crap” I hear people say, “That’s not a nickname…” I was fighting in this competition – the Ironman – and Andy Jardine was my trainer then. I was getting bashed, but I was winning and somehow managed to get through three different fighters and end up in the final. They were saying, “You keep on going like the Terminator” and Andy said, “No, you’re the Reidernator!” and it just stuck. That was in 2000.
Do you ever bet?
I did on my last fight! On myself! I was fucking gutted! I was more gutted about that than losing. I was like, “Bastard! I've just lost $300!”
