10 Questions With Jim Wallhead (4/9/2010)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Jim Wallhead (by Darrick Patrick)

"Judo" Jim Wallhead is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as the M-1 Challenge, Cage Warriors Fighting Championships, Knuckle Up MMA, Clash Of Warriors, Ultimate Force, House Of Pain, Cage Gladiators, and 2 Hot 2 Handle,. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Jacob McClintock in the first round of the second season welterweight tournament of Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 15 on April 22nd, 2010.

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

Jim: I got into MMA by chance really. I had a successful Judo career before I turned twenty-one years old and had ended up drifting away from the sport. Then after a couple of years, I went to a mixed martial arts show and someone told the promoter of my previous Judo credentials. I was offered a fight and that is how it all began for me.

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

Jim: The main ones really are my teammates. We have a great set-up at Rough House and I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for the likes of Dan Hardy, Paul Daley, Andre Winner, etc.

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

Jim: I love to compete and I like to be challenged. There is no bigger challenge than fighting a tough opponent in MMA.

Darrick: Your next scheduled bout is against Jacob McClintock on April 22nd. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Jim: I believe it's going to be a great fight. Jacob is a very good fighter and I want to give him the toughest fight he has ever had. It's going to be exciting for sure.

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

Jim: I have been blessed with great parents who have supported me my whole life and are still like that at the drop of a hat even now. Also, Neil Adams who is an Olympic silver medalist in Judoka. I used to train under him full-time when I left school. My father-in-law Swanny is now also an influence to me as well.

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

Jim: Work hard, set realistic goals, travel and train with as many people as possible, and enjoy every minute. Don't get down if doors are shut on you, it's for a reason. Also, understand a loss sometimes can be a blessing because you will grow from it.

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

Jim: When I am not training, I just love spending time with my Mrs. Joanna and my daughter Georgia. We have fun doing whatever we're doing such as going out places, playing, etc. I also enjoy good food, movies, and my Xbox.

Darrick: What moment in your life have you been proudest of so far?

Jim: My proudest moment without a doubt was the birth of my daughter. It was most amazing and surreal experience ever. I am also looking forward to my second child's birth in September and I can't wait.

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

Jim: I used to ride horses as a kid and did competitions for about five years. Also, I am scared of spiders beyond belief. I scream and everything.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Jim: I have the worst memory in the world really, but I can remember when my mum took me to Judo for the first time. I didn't want to go and join in because I wanted to go Karate. My mum said the coach knew my dad though and his name was Rocky. I thought that was cool and he had a rocker's haircut and looked tough. (Laughs) So, I joined in.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=4974388&blogID=343519835

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

Official Jim Wallhead Website:

http://www.jimmywallheadmma.co.uk

Official Jim Wallhead Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1323496179

Official Jim Wallhead Facebook Group:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=254800570720

Official Jim Wallhead Twitter Area:

http://www.twitter.com/JudoJimmy

Jim Wallhead on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Jim-Wallhead-12903

Jim Wallhead Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/12903