10 Questions With Maka Watson (8/21/2011)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Maka Watson (by Darrick Patrick)

Maka Watson is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Strikeforce, Rumble on the Rock, and Fight for the Kids. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Ryan Couture at Strikeforce Challengers: Larkin vs. Zwicker on September 23rd, 2011.

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

Maka: I'd watch fights in Hawaii that were shown on cable really late at night. When I saw local guys doing it, it was something I wanted to try. I ended up in Hilo with my girlfriend (wife now), started doing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and I got hooked. From there it eventually led into fighting in mixed martial arts.

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

Maka: Yeah, please don't dye your hair or wear a frickin' mohawk. (Laughs) Nah, I'd have to say get ready for a roller coaster ride. There will be a lot of ups and downs, mostly downs in training and in life. It's how you deal with it that will determine if you get anywhere in the game. Most importantly, surround yourself with good people.

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

Maka: Definitely the Gracies for pretty much creating the sport.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Ryan Couture on September 23rd. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Maka: Ryan will be the most well-rounded fighter I've faced. I'm expecting it to be a really tough fight. Watch us on Showtime or come see us at the Palms. It's going to be a hell of a fight.

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

Maka: The feeling of being in shape.

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

Maka: I was never really influenced by anyone growing up. In ways, I guess I'd have to say my parents I'm finding as I go through life and get older.

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

Maka: Before moving to Vegas, surfing was number one to me. I miss the ocean bad. I started mountain biking out here in the desert. It's really relaxing getting super far from the city and it's a good workout. I also like hanging with my wife and watching movies. Oh, she would kill me if I didn't mention video games too. (Laughs)

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

Maka: When I got my purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

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

Maka: That's easy. (Laughs) I've never drank alcohol or smoked anything ever.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Maka: Hitchhiking to the beach with my boys along with our surfboards and staying in the water for eight straight hours.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

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

You can also check out Maka Watson in the following places:

Official Maka Watson Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/people/Maka-Watson/100000573439858

Maka Watson on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Maka-Watson-24997