Fighter Interview: Ben Jones

Q: How did you get into MMA?
A: It was a natural transition from professional football for me. I was looking for a new way to compete after finishing my career. I'd been fighting my whole life basically, and I thought it'd be a good idea to get paid for it.

Q: What was your first Martial Art/Training method?
A: My dad taught me Taekwondo when I was a kid, but I didn't really study any one method until I started training MMA.

Q: What would you call your style of fighting?
A: On the ground I prefer Catch Wrestling; it's a little more aggressive. Standing, I'm more of a boxer that throws some elbows and knees into the mix. I don't really have a specialty because I believe that you need everything to win a match.

Q: What's your favorite fitness training method?
A: I used to go to the gym and just lift weights (barbells, machines, etc.), but more recently I started doing unconventional training techniques like ropes, kettlebells, and sandbags and I got better results and I have a lot of fun with it.

Q: How do you get psyched up for a fight?
A: I try to relax as much as possible prior to the fight and my training helps give me a lot of confidence. I've found that the best way to hit a match is with all that tension being stored and released when the bell rings. Getting too psyched up can burn you out before the fight even starts.

Q: Out of all your fights in the ring, which one was your favorite?
A: During my fight against Dave Mewborn, I managed to slam him against the mat and knock him out within 36 seconds of the match starting.

Q: Out of all your fights outside the ring, which one was your favorite?
A: I wanted to be a pro football player my whole life, so when I first walked out onto the field for my first game, that was the best feeling.

Q: What are your goals for your MMA career?
A: I'd like to get into the top show and collect some belts. But more importantly, earning the respect of fellow fighters and knowing that I did everything I could to win is my real goal. Long term, I'd like to build a team and help them achieve their goals in MMA.

Q: As a MMA fan, what match-up would you most like to see?
A: If it could be any fighter at any time, I'd like to see Bas Rutten in his prime against Wanderlei César da Silva in his prime.

Q: If you could fight any celebrity, who would it be?
A: Spencer Pratt (for obvious reasons) and Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth (from Season 1 of The Apprentice). Of all the horrible reality stars, these two take the cake.

Q: Do have any suggestions/tips for people who are brand new to fighting, or are looking to get into it?
A: If you're serious about getting into competitive MMA, you have to treat your body like a pro athlete. Get into serious training everyday. You don't necessarily have to BE a great athlete (although you do need some serious strength and conditioning levels); fighting is more about your mindset and will.