10 Questions With Brian Kelleher (10/1/2011)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Brian Kelleher (by Darrick Patrick)

Brian "Boom" Kelleher is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as Ring of Combat, Cage Fury Fighting Championships, Xtreme Fight Events, and Combat Zone. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Claudio Ledesma in Bellator Fighting Championships at BFC 54 on October 15th, 2011.

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

Brian: Well, I grew up living on Long Island my whole life. Nothing real crazy went down in my life that had led me to want do this kind of thing, but it was the fact that I was always in sports and competing. I have this desire to win and be the best at what I am doing. When I first saw MMA, I thought it was interesting and knew I had the athletic ability and the heart to participate in such an extreme form of competition. I would say it's probably the most extreme form as well.

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

Brian: My Grandpa and my family, of course. I have a great support system and I have my whole life. My family is always going the extra mile to support me in what I am doing and I greatly appreciate it. I wouldn't be where I am today without having the family that I have.

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

Brian: For anyone who is looking to take the sport seriously and compete at the highest level, I would say to always believe in yourself and your capabilities. Know that it takes great discipline and dedication to live this lifestyle, and to be successful in doing so. Always try the best to keep your mind focused and in a positive place. Stay humble with yourself, but always know that at anytime someone else can take your spot. Don't let it happen.

Darrick: Your next scheduled fight is against Claudio Ledesma on October 15th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming match?

Brian: I'm really excited about this upcoming fight against Claudio Ledesma. I'm very thankful for this opportunity to fight for Bellator and I plan on proving that I belong there. Every fight that I have I am going in that cage to finish my opponent. I want that unexplainable feeling of victory any chance I can get it. I always expect a tough challenge, but I always come well-prepared. October 15th is the fun part.

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

Brian: The lifestyle of MMA. I love everything about it. Of course, it's a constant grind but so is life. I'm having fun every day with some great people and there's nothing else that interests me more. At this point, mixed martial arts is my life. You put so much time into becoming the best fighter you can be in all aspects of the game. The greatest, most fulfilling feeling is when it's time to get in the cage and leave it all out there when it matters. All the mental, physical, and psychological preparation put in finally gets it's reward.

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

Brian: I honestly respect anybody who is stepping in that cage just like I am. How could you not?

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

Brian: I really enjoy music, writing my own songs, and just having a good time making people laugh. Anytime I can sit down to have a nice cup of coffee and a nice conversation, I'm always down. Not too crazy on partying at this point, I'm more laid back. I just like to relax and chill out.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Brian: I'm not quite sure I can determine what my specific oldest memory is. It has probably passed away at this point. (Laughs) Too old to stick around in this brain, ya' know?

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

Brian: I cry.

Darrick: If you were stuck in a bomb shelter for the rest of your life, what three items would you take in with you besides food and water?

Brian: My cup, my mouth piece, and some 4 oz. MMA gloves. BOOM!

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

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

You can also check out Brian Kelleher in the following places:

Official Brian Kelleher Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=712851356

Official Brian Kelleher Facebook Group:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brian-Boom-Kelleher/196346217096777

Brian Kelleher on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Brian-Kelleher-53666

Brian Kelleher Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/53666