10 Questions With Matt Traylor (1/10/2011)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Matt Traylor (by Darrick Patrick)

Matt Traylor is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Xtreme Fighting Championships, Bobish's Ultimate Cage Battles, KoKings, MMA Big Show, Absolute Cage Fighting, and Bangkok Fight Night. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Zach Underwood at SportFight X: Middle Tennessee Mayhem on January 29th, 2011.

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

Matt: After my college playing days were over, I knew I still wanted to compete at a high level. I already loved MMA, but now I had the time to train. After training for a year and a half, I had my first exhibition fight. I knocked my guy out with a head kick and was hooked. No touchdown, home run, or diving catch had ever given me that much of an adrenaline rush. I knew then I wanted to do it again and I haven't stopped.

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

Matt: I respect all fighters who train and act like professionals. I especially respect and like watching guys like Anderson Silva, Lyoto Machida, Shogun, Georges St-Pierre (GSP), B.J. Penn, and Jose Aldo. Those guys are the best, so I like watching those guys.

A fighter though that I respect and learn from on a daily basis is Rafaello "Tractor" Oliveira. We're training partners and he's fought in big shows, including the UFC. He and his family left Brazil and moved here so he could fulfill his dreams of fighting at the highest level and have a better life. That shows loads of courage and commitment to your dreams. I've been able to learn from the ups and downs of his career.

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

Matt: I've always enjoyed training and working out. MMA training is not only the best workout, but also the most fun. So, I always look forward to the workouts and enjoy the fact that it keeps me in shape.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Zach Underwood on January 29th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Matt: This will certainly be an exciting fight. Zach is a very popular fighter and is extremely tough and well-rounded. He brings a lot to the table, so I'm really looking forward to getting in there competing with Zach as well as giving the fans an entertaining fight.

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

Matt: I would say to find a good gym with good coaches and training partners. One that you fit in well at and are comfortable with. Train consistently and be don't be in a hurry. It takes time to become mentally and physically prepared to handle fight training and competing. Humble yourself and be patient because preparation is key.

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

Matt: I've been fortunate. Many coaches I've had in my athletic career have served as great influences. As I've gotten older though, learning about the life of Jesus and the real man he was has served me well. My dad and brothers have also been solid influences. They love the Lord and have shown me what a good husband and father is supposed to look like.

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

Matt: I love football, especially college football and Auburn football. Football season is the best time of the year. I also enjoy relaxing and spending time with family and friends. All of my family is in town, so there's always something going on.

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

Matt: I played D-1 baseball.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Matt: Wow. Tough one here. (Laughs) I think my oldest memory is me sitting up in bed, crying and scared, because it was dark and I thought someone was standing in the doorway waiting to hurt me.

Darrick: If you had three wishes, what would they be?

Matt: The first would be for three more wishes, is that allowed? (Laughs) The second would be for my little girl, and any other children I have, to know and love the Lord. Third, I'd wish for unimaginable success in everything I do.

FOR OTHER EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS BY DARRICK PATRICK:

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

You can also check out Matt Traylor in the following places:

Official Matt Traylor Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000423607731

Matt Traylor on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Matt-Traylor-43407