10 Questions With Ryan McGillivray (12/27/2011)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Ryan McGillivray (by Darrick Patrick)

Ryan "The Kid" McGillivray is a professional mixed martial artist who has competed in organizations such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Heat XC, Maximum Fighting Championship, Aggression MMA, The Fight Club, and Let's Get It On MMA. He also appeared on the thirteenth season of the television show The Ultimate Fighter: Team Lesnar vs. Team dos Santos. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Diego Bautista in the Maximum Fighting Championship at MFC 32: Bitter Rivals on January 27th, 2012.

Darrick: How did you end up competing professionally in mixed martial arts?

Ryan: When I was sixteen years old, I broke my back. After all of my recovery, I was too old to play my former sports at the level I needed to. I had to find a new challenge and a way to fill my competitive drive. I met some fighters, gave it a shot, and fell in love with the sport since day one. From there, I just committed myself and am here until the end.

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

Ryan: Simply put, my father and grandfather. I could not say enough to give anyone an idea of what those two men mean to me and have given me. I would just cheapen it in trying.

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

Ryan: Surround yourself with good people at all times. Never let your ego get in the way of learning and listening to the people around you. Above all, put in the work and train. Train, train, and train. If it is your destiny, it will pay off.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Diego Bautista on January 27th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Ryan: I am very excited, confident, and just ready to go! He is a tough opponent, but he is not my first tough opponent either. I will be ready for a war. If he is too, it should be an amazing fight. One to watch, for sure. I can promise I'll hold up my end.

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

Ryan: There are a few things that drive me the most and provide with me fulfillment within martial arts. First was my drive to compete and always try to be "my" best. Second is the challenges that come day to day and the feeling of accomplishment from putting in work. Lastly, knowing I am doing more than most (physically) to provide for my daughter Peighton.

Darrick: Who is someone in the sport that you highly respect?

Ryan: Jason MacDonald because he is so professional. He was a huge part in my growing up and maturing. He has been a role model of mine since day one in MMA.

Darrick: Outside of mixed martial arts, what are your other interests?

Ryan: I like playing any sport out there. I also enjoy a good movie, as well as spending time with my friends and family.

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

Ryan: Every day that my daughter does anything, I couldn't be prouder. The most amazing moment for me was after a big win, I got to take my daughter into the ring and had her share that moment with me.

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

Ryan: I am very shy. It is a challenge for me to be in large groups and around a lot of people. I am an introvert, but I am working on it and have improved a lot.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Ryan: Well, considering I get hit in the head for a living, it may not be very old. (Laughs) I would say playing street hockey with my family on a tennis court during the holidays.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

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

You can also check out Ryan McGillivray in the following places:

Official Ryan McGillivray Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/people/Ryan-McGillivray/529995141

Official Ryan McGillivray Twitter Area:

http://www.twitter.com/kidmcgillivray

Ryan McGillivray on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Ryan-McGillivray-18533

Ryan McGillivray Photo Gallery at Sherdog.com:

http://www.sherdog.com/pictures/gallery/fighter/18533