10 Questions With Zak Cummings (1/14/2009)

[DarrickPatrick]

10 Questions With Zak Cummings (by Darrick Patrick)

Zak Cummings is a professional mixed martial artist who has appeared in organizations such as Midwest Cage Championships, International Sport Combat Federation, FM Productions, and Titan Fighting Championships. At the time of this interview, his next scheduled match is against Terry Martin at XCF: Rumble in Racetown 1 on February 14th, 2009.

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

Zak: I have an extensive wrestling background and when I stopped wrestling I started training MMA to get back into shape. After a few months, I had my first amateur fight and then went on to be 6-0 as an amateur. My trainer called me on Thanksgiving to let me know that I was making my pro debut the following weekend. Throughout my first year of fighting professionally I've earned a record of 8-0.

Darrick: Your next scheduled match is against Terry Martin on February 14th. What are your thoughts about this upcoming fight?

Zak: I'm extremely excited for this fight. Terry Martin is a very tough opponent and he has fought at the level that I want to get to. Not to mention that the fight is in Daytona, Florida.

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

Zak: Rich Franklin is high on that list - I've met him and he is a very cool guy, as well as a very good fighter. I also respect fighters like Anderson Silva and B.J. Penn because I love the attitude that they bring into the cage.

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

Zak: Train, train, and then train some more. So many people go into this sport thinking they are tough because they have won a few street fights. I believe you have to understand that it is a sport, a physical chess match. You want to be well-conditioned and work on technique as much as you can.

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

Zak: My mom has been there for me through everything I've done. She never asked why, she is just there to support me and having someone in your life like that is a very rare thing I've found out. Recently my trainer Rick Wymer has influenced me to a great extent. He is like a father to me now and I respect him very much.

Darrick: Where could you possibly see the future of the sport ten years from now?

Zak: This sport has grown so much that it's hard to say. I wouldn't say that it will be in the Olympics, but I'm sure it will be much bigger and bringing in the most money.

Darrick: Outside of competitive fighting, what are your other interests?

Zak: I love to go out and have a good time. I like to go to clubs and dance - or just chill with my friends. Also, when I'm not cutting weight I love to eat.

Darrick: What is your oldest memory?

Zak: That would probably be moving from a trailer in Dallas to a house with an in-ground pool in Springfield, Missouri. I had some great times growing up in that house.

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

Zak: I'm very goofy and sensitive. I love watching kid movies and chick flicks. Not what you'd expect from a fighter, but oh well.

Darrick: If you lost one of your senses, which could you stand to be without?

Zak: I'd say smell on that one. I absolutely hate cigarettes and I work in a club, so not being able to smell the stench of smokers would be an even trade.

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 Zak Cummings in the following places:

Official Zak Cummings MySpace Profile:

http://www.myspace.com/cummings184

Official Zak Cummings Facebook Site:

http://www.facebook.com/people/Zak-Cummings/16927950

Zak Cummings on Fight Finder:

http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Zak-Cummings-31808