Andria Caplan Interview

Photo Credits:
Photo 1: Steve Bibby
Photos 2-3 Hex Linc Photos
Photos 4-5 MMA Freaks


After a lengthy lay-off Andria Caplan will return to the cage on August 28th when she faces Gabrielle Holloway. It will be Holloway's pro debut, while Caplan will be in her second pro fight. Andria is a fighter who you would call "fan friendly", always in an exciting fight and always gives it one hundred and ten percent.

Q: You have been doing some matchmaking lately, how have you enjoyed that?
A: It's been fun. I actually enjoy it, it is fun for me. I can sit and say "I would like to see these guys fight". Then, I get to have the best seat in the house to watch it, which is awesome.

Q: Best part and worst part of matchmaking?
A: Best part is getting to watch all the fights I have made happen. Worst part is following fighters around like their mother asking for blood work and medicals and licenses. That gets frustrating. In some states it is more complicated than others. So I am forever chasing down paperwork, that's no fun haha.

Q: You are fighting Gabrielle Holloway coming up, what do you know about her?
A: I know that she is undefeated, 7-0 as an amateur. She is from Virginia. I guess she is a wrestler, but she trains at a boxing gym so I assume she has some boxing. She is a little shorter than me so I get a reach advantage but as a wrestler she doesn't really have to change levels to shoot. So I think we both have an advantage in our own world, what we like to do.

Q: You have about a five inch height advantage, if it is the kind of fight you like, how important is that reach advantage?
A: She is south-paw to, it looks to me. You can still jab but it is not as affective for someone who is south-paw. I am just gonna go and fight and be ready wherever it goes. Just see what happens. I am not sure what to expect out of her, if she is gonna just run at me, I'm not really sure haha.

Q: It is your first fight since last October, do you worry about ring rust at all?
A: No, not too much. I have gone a few months here and there. If it had been much longer I would be worried about it but I don't think I'm screwed over or anything, it's not so bad.

Q: She fought in March, but before that she also took a year off, so even if there was ring rust, would her inactivity kind of neutralize it?
A: Possibly. I don't know how big the shows are that she is fighting on, but I fought at NAAFS, it was huge, Fight Night in the Flats, tons of people there, big venue, lots of awesome fights and after that was my pro debut and it was Bellator, so I am used to cameras and large crowds. I don't know how big a crowd she is used to or sued to a camera in her face. The first time I saw a camera in my face I didn't like it so much.

Q: While you only had the one pro fight, it being her pro debut, does that give you any advantage to have that experience?
A: Coming from Virginia, I think their amateur rules are pretty much pro rules anyway. I think the only thing she has to contend with is the five minute rounds instead of three.

Q: I know you and know how you will answer, but I will ask anyway. Taking that much time off, how frustrating was it?
A: It is o.k. for a little bit cause you are like "oh, I can eat". Then it becomes just awful. I get real edgy. When I was super busy matchmaking, it was hard to train as much, which is the only reason I didn't fight more, not getting in a proper training camp. So not being able to get in a good camp is enough to make me kind of bitchy haha.

Q: You are perfectly content to stand and trade, but if she takes it down are you confident you can hang there?
A: Yeah! My last fight I won the first and third rounds and my opponent won the second. I was on my back the second round. So all I did when I didn't have a fight coming up was pull guard, pull guard, pull guard, work on getting up and submissions off my back. I don't think it will be a huge issue. I don't want her to hit a takedown but I am not helpless. I am not really worried. I know she has wrestling but I don't know what her Jiu-Jitsu is like, and I do know Jiu-Jitsu. I have wrestlers I train with a lot. At my gym there are plenty of wrestlers. I am not worried, I was at first and then I stopped.

Q: When you know you have a fight, in this case with a wrestler, how much of your camp do you devote to wrestling knowing she will want to try and wrestle?
A: I devote just as much time to striking still. I do Muay-Thai, Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu and wrestler. Equal time devoted to each. I don't want to change myself completely. My last two fights were mostly on the ground and I did fine, I won them both. I am not afraid to be there. I continue to train that but also train my stand-up. What if she decides to do nothing but stand-up? Then I am like "duh how do I throw a punch?". I guess I would still know how to throw a punch haha.

Q: Is there a key to winning this fight?
A: Make her uncomfortable.

Q: Do you have a prediction?
A: I just think it could go so many different ways. Every time I play it in my head, it ends differently. It changes constantly.

Q: Any idea what you want to do next, be more active?
A: I think I am supposed to fight for the same promotion. I have a two fight contract with them, so I think November 3rd. Then maybe take time off and do more matchmaking. I have been offered a couple jobs doing that. It's hard to say ya know.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: Absolutely! I wanna thank Intimidation for sponsoring me again. Rock Star Tattoo in Absecon New Jersey, Al does the greatest tattoo. He did a great cover-up of one I hated forever. Makes me very happy. Daddis Fight Camps for looking out and taking care of my training and the emotional support. My parents for understanding I like this and coming and watching my shows. Caged Fury for letting me stop matchmaking so I can get a fight in. Slade at Tussle, I had a crazy time trying to match a female fight and he was a huge help. And thank you for another interview.

Kimberly De Jesus Alfonso Interview

Photo Credit:
Photo 4: Superman Fit


It's impossible for anyone to know the name of every competitor. Especially those newer competitors who have just done one or two shows. Luckily on occasion, one of those competitors reaches out to me to do an interview. In the case of Kimberly De Jesus Alfonso, I am very glad she did, especially after checking out some of her photos. I was very impressed by Kimberly and think she has the potential to do very well in the bikini division.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I was in track and field in high school and they told me to start lifting. I was like "no way, I am a girl, I don't wanna look butch" haha. I got into and started lifting three times per week and I loved it and got hooked. Ever since then, when I was sixteen I have been lifting.

Q: Why did you decide to compete?
A: Competing has never been a priority for me. I did it back in 2007 I believe. Someone who went to my gym used to do it and she was the owner of one the competitions. She invited me and insisted so many times that I was like "alright I will go". I was training for a Tae-Kwon-Do fight, so I was preparing to fight not to compete. But I went there and it was a great experience. I got third place and thought maybe I would do it again. This year my boyfriend started pushing me saying "you should do it, you train so hard, you should show it off". So I figured "why not", and I love it.

Q: People who don't know the sport, you say "bikini" and often they think it is T&A, did you have to explain to people it was actually fitness?
A: Oh yes, always. I tell people I do bodybuilding competitions, and they say "are you gonna get like a guy,a re you gonna get huge". I have to explain the different divisions because people really don't know, they have no idea.

Q: For you, what is the hardest part of prepping for a show?
A: My legs! Doing legs, I love it and I hate it. The diet is not easy. Just yesterday I had to cook for my boyfriend. I did a lot of food and couldn't eat any of it and that was hard. It is hard to be disciplined.

Q: You just took second at the Mississippi Championships, how happy were you with that?
A: I was super super happy, you have no idea. I went there with no expectations, obviously everyone wants to win, but I went for the experience. They were taking people off and I was still there and I was like "oh my gosh, I might win". The girl who won was a lady who was thirty-seven years old and had two kids, so I was honored to be on the same stage with her.

Q: Do you get nervous before you go on stage?
A: Oh my gosh, I had to do breathing techniques before getting on stage. My legs shake so much, which is one reason I decided to compete, because I am shy. I am a teacher, I talk in front of people and it is no problem, but when it comes to modeling or competition it is hard for me. I like to do things that I am afraid of. My legs could not stop shaking, so I kept switching positions so they couldn't see I was nervous.

Q: Was there any part of competing that surprised you?
A: I think, I already knew from my first competition that I had an idea of it. I didn't know there were so many divisions, I learned a lot.

Q: Some people say competing becomes addicting, was that the case for you?
A: I wouldn't say addictive, I would say it is exciting, you wanna do it again. A little bit, but it keeps you motivated to keep working, which I love.

Q: You are getting ready for a show, what show and when is it?
A: The next show is August 26th in Puerto Rico, which is where I am from. It is called the Tony Roman Bodybuilding Classic. It is a local show but I wanna do it to get practice.

Q: From the last show to this one, is there any part of your physique you want to be better?
A: I am listening to what the judges had to say. They told me that my abs were too cut. I am trying to listen to them, but at the same time I am trying to do what I like, I like my abs to be defined. They explained that they should be more soft, so I am struggling with that. Always, I wanna work on my butt, it looks good, but I am looking for improvement. I love to work on my legs and glutes.

Q: When people say bikini competitors don't train as hard as others, does that upset you?
A: Oh yes! I give them a thirty minute speech telling them I wake up everyday at 5:30AM to run and go to a gym like everyone else and lift for hours. I do the same diet and work really hard just like them. I do less weight and a different kind of training, but it is pretty much similar.

Q: At the gym do you get a lot of attention or stares from people?
A: Yeah, a little bit. They are not used to seeing women who are cut and look feminine. I like it because it gives me an opportunity to explain the different divisions. A lot of women come up and ask "what do you do? Do you dance?" I tell them I lift and they compliment and tell me they thought a woman who lifts looked manly, but they like my physique.

Q: Do you get a lot of them asking for diet help?
A: Yeah, which is why I started my facebook fan page. I put up pictures and talk about my diet and exercises. People message me and I answer them. I really like to talk to people, I think it comes from my teaching.

Q: In public do you dress to cover up and avoid attention or my proud and want to show it off?
A: I am proud of it and show it off. Not in a vulgar way, but I dress feminine and to show my arms that I work so hard for.

Q: Do you have any specific competing goals?
A: I would love to compete at a National level. Now that I qualified for it, I feel I should do it. The status only lasts for one year. I would love to do it, but I want to feel prepared. I feel I need to gain experience on the stage. I feel like overall I look really good, I need to improve my walk. I walk nicely, and they said I have good presence, but I get nervous and would like to work on those things. I would love to go further and get a pro card. That would be great. I am taking it one step at a time. You have to be real disciplined. I go on vacation tomorrow and cant eat. I have to bring my food with me. I am getting used to it.

Q: If you could spend a day training with anyone, who would it be?
A: Amanda Latona. That women is gorgeous. She has the greatest physique I have ever seen.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: My boyfriend. He always supports me. I am not a morning person and he wakes me up with the coffee. My family is really supportive and my friends.

Shannon Courtney Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-2: Dan Ray
Photos 3-5: RX Muscle


I remember the first time I saw a picture of Shannon Courtney. I was amazed. She looked incredible. I then found out, it wasn't even the most recent of pictures. She had actually added some size and looked even more amazing. Then to find out she was only twenty-one years old? Wow! I interviewed her and found out she has the attitude and personality to match the physique. Shannon, in her first National show, just took third at USA's and is prepping for Nationals. I decided to use that as an excuse to get her to do a second interview, even though her first was just recently. While to me, Shannon is definitely a favorite to get her pro card at Nationals, even if that doesn't happen, at only twenty-one, she has plenty of time to get it and have a long future in the sport. However I think that that pro card will come soon. I have stated and I firmly believe that Shannon Courtney may very well be the future of female bodybuilding.

Q: You just took third at USA's, everyone wants to win, but for your first National show, how satisfied were you with that?
A: I was very satisfied. I look at the comparison photos and think maybe I should have gotten second, but for it being my first National show, I was very satisfied, very happy, definitely celebrated right after. I think I held my own pretty good with the seasoned girls that were out there who had done more national shows and were older. So I was pretty happy.

Q: Were you any more nervous for a National show than usual?
A: I was super excited. I had all this energy. I don't know where I got the energy from, just adrenaline. I was super excited about it. They were making fun of me backstage cause I was acting like a little kid almost haha.

Q: Were do you think you were better for this show than previous shows?
A: I really brought a way better package as far as being a lot tighter, a lot dryer, brought in my legs like I said I would. Overall I think I really brought in a whole better package so I could hold my own against those girls. Everyone there was pretty good competition.

Q: Looking at pictures, I tried very hard to find a picture where you did not have a huge smile on your face, and did not find one, was that how you were the whole time?
A: Haha. Yeah, it's weird, like I said I don't know where it came from, but all of a sudden I had this energy when I got on stage. Every time it happens. I like the stage. I don't get nervous, once I get out there I go.

Q: Even with not winning, you are the person I heard the most compliments about, does that give you extra satisfaction?
A: It does. Any kind of support, people cheering, telling me I do a great job, it fires me up even more. It got me pumped for Nationals now.


Q: From USA's to Nationals were do you want to be better?
A: The judges said I need to bring up my upper body to match my legs a little bit. They said to bring the same package basically. Keep practicing my posing and be perfect and sharper on stage, hit every pose within a second. I am focusing on certain body parts, my lower lats, my biceps, just a thicker upper body. I am gonna be even more dry and more cut. I can't wait to see how I look at Nationals.

Q: For your size, you pose like a bigger girl, and I mean that as a compliment, are you happy with your size or do you want to get bigger?
A: Yeah, I am gonna stay in the light-heavy class. For USA's I was 130 on stage, so I was a really light light-heavy. I was trying to make middleweight but I was five pounds away. Judges said light-heavy is my class. I will probably be around 135 or 140 at my heaviest as far as the biggest I wanna get. I wanna be a light-heavy but on the heavier side.

Q: A dumb question, but why is a pro card so important to you?
A: I really want that title. I can do so many things with it. I can turn it into a career, do guest posing and things. It would be awesome to turn my passion into my work.


Q: Say you don't win your pro card at Nationals, will it make your year any disappointing, or can you say "I am twenty-one, I have a long future"?
A: I will look at it positively. More time to grow and improve. I do have so many years to go. It will fire me up more. I will hit the next National show and keep going till I get it. It is something I enjoy doing so it is not a let down.

Q: In a short period of time you have gotten popular, is it hard to not let that go to your head and remain humble?
A: I don't think it gets to my head. I joke with my husband or friends being cocky, totally playing around. I feel bad when I get a ton of emails and cant get back to them, but it is hard to respond to everyone. I stay humble, there is no reason to get too proud haha.

Q: The popularity is part cause of the physique, part cause your looks, but do you think part of it is your age and people wanting to latch on to the new up coming person?
A: Yeah I think it is good for the sport. There is more time for the promoting part of it. It is good for the sport, the fact that I am young.

Q: Going through preps for a big show, how much does it help to have a husband who is involved in the sport?
A: He knows what I am going through so that is nice. When we do argue, I get irritated quick when I am dieting, he understands and lets me have my space. Especially in Vegas, all my prep things I needed help with, he knew without me telling him because he goes through it. It is nice not having to baby sit anyone and they can help me with my prep.

Q: I mentioned posing, and it seems you excel at it, how much work do you put into posing?
A: I start about four weeks out. I start posing a half hour every other day until two weeks out and then it is an hour every day after my workout. I am naturally a good poser from the start, it kind of came to me. Figure really helped me. The structure of it. I am dainty looking and flowing and feminine. Some bodybuilders pose too hard, so I think that helped as well.

Q: Speaking of dainty, in clothes no one will know what you look like, do you tend to surprise people when they see your physique the first time?
A: Oh yeah! Very much so. I will be in regular clothes and they start asking if I work out and I show them a picture and they say "that's under that, that's you?" They cant believe it is me. It does surprise people unless I am in my gym clothes. I can keep it covered up pretty good.

Q: You did photo shoots in Vegas, is that something you enjoy?
A: I do kinda haha. Like in Vegas I had one thing on my mind, the competition. Photographers, a lot of them, asked me to do shoots. I came to focus on competing. I am tired and depleted. It was challenging, I'm not gonna lie. I enjoy the results. I did a shoot with Dan Ray and am glad I did it, but I get lazy haha.


Q: Look ahead, in five years where do you see yourself in the sport?
A: With my pro card. Hopefully have a good sponsorship. I do have a good one, Get Some Xtreme Wear, but hopefully a supplement company well help me out. I do personal training as well, so maybe get more into that and more contest prep. Just being a bodybuilder haha.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: AD Cherry my coach and Kristie Taketa. They prepped for for USA's and helped me a ton. I missed two flights and was so stressed, and they calmed me down and kept an eye on me.

NAAFS Caged Vengeance 11 Report

August 4th NAAFS put on Caged Vengeance 11 a pro/am show with several exciting fights. In the pro fights, Frank Caraballo successfully defended his title and showed again he is ready for the big show and Terry Blackwell got another win over a tough Brandon Suber. In amateur action Sammy Callari had an impressive finish for his second win, Evolve MMA had a good night as Nick Halkides and Josh Kallai both had impressive finishes. Two female fights both left impressions as Jessica Dinch claimed her first win in dominating fashion in a fight that had the crowd going crazy and Jena Baldwin, in her debut fight showed that she is someone to keep an eye on.

1. Amateur Featherweight
Bryan Gonzales (0-1 VIP D-Boyz) vs Cody Lewis (0-0 Griffon Rawl)

RD 1: Leg kick by Gonzales. They trade hooks. Another hook by Gonzales. They clinch and move to the cage. Gonzales looks for a guillotine and they drop down. Lewis gets his back but Gonzales turns into him and Lewis then goes for an armbar. Gonzales pulls his arm out and is in guard. Body shots by Gonzales. Gonzales now in half guard but Lewis quickly gets back to full guard. Two body shots by Gonzales followed by shots to the head.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Gonzales

RD 2: Lewis shoots in but Gonzales lands on top in guard. Head shots by Gonzales. Hammer fists by Gonzales. Lewis tries to escape but can't. Head shots by Gonzales. Lewis is defending well. Lewis looks for a triangle but can't get it. Lewis is cut above his eye. Gonzales postures up and lands head shots. Lewis tries for an armbar but can't get it.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Gonzales

RD 3: Lewis shoots in but Gonzales sprawls and gets on top. Body shots by Gonzales. Gonzales in half guard lands punches to the head. More head and body shots by Gonzales. Lewis works hard to stand but can't. More head shots by Gonzales. Now body shots by Gonzales. Gonzales gets side control and lands punches. Lewis pulls guard. Body shots by Gonzales.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Gonzales
My score card: 30-27 Gonzales

Result: Bryan Gonzales by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

2. Amateur Heavyweight
Adib Nour (2-0 Dojo Fight Club) vs James Rankin (4-3 Prodigy MMA)

RD 1: They trade punches. Hard hook lands for Rankin. Nour shoots but can't get the takedown. They trade wild shots. Takedown by Rankin. Rankin gets his back and lands hard punches. Nour rolls and gets in guard. Rankin lands punches from the bottom. Nour is bleeding from the nose. Rankin gets his back and looks for a rear naked. Now Rankin goes for an arm but Nour escapes and stands. Nour drops down but lets Rankin get on top. Rankin gets side control and then gets his back. Rankin lands hard shots. Rankin gets mount and a guillotine and gets the tap.

Result: James Rankin by Tapout (Guillotine) at 2:42 of Round 1

3. Amateur Lightweight
Jake Magill (0-0 Shrader's MMA) vs Dan Ramacciato (0-1 Griffon Rawl)

RD 1: Magill ducks a punch and gets a takedown. Ramacciato is up quick. Hard hook and knee to the body by Ramacciato and Magill goes down. Ramacciato gets his back and lands punches. Ramacciato landing hard shots now. Ramacciato looks for a rear naked but gives it up and starts landing punches. Ramacciato flattens him and lands punches till the ref stops it.

Result: Dan Ramacciato by TKO at 2:12 of Round 1

4. Amateur Bantamweight
Dib Kaddah (0-0 Cleveland State MMA) vs Darnell Pettis (0-0 Brickhouse MMA)

RD 1: They clinch in the center and move to the cage. Kaddah is trying for a single leg and gets the takedown into guard. Pettis lands punches from the bottom. Kaddah lets him up. Punches by Pettis. Kaddah shoots and gets a takedown and moves to side control. Pettis avoids damage. Kaddah moves to north south and lands punches.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Kaddah

RD 2: They trade punches and Kaddah looks for a takedown. Kaddah works hard and finishes the takedown and gets side control. Kaddah moves to mount but Pettis gets half guard. The ref stands them. Hook by Pettis. They clinch and Pettis lands two knees. They drop down and Pettis gets his back. Kaddah rolls and gets mount. Punch to the body from the bottom by Pettis. Head shots by Pettis.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Pettis

RD 3: Hook by Pettis. Cross by Pettis. Takedown by Pettis. Pettis moves him to the cage and gets mount. Head shots by Pettis. Pettis gets his back and lands punches. Kaddah rolls and gets mount. Punches from the bottom by Pettis. Body shots by Kaddah. Kaddah stands and lets Pettis up. Pettis lands a hard hook. Kaddah goes for a takedown and gets it bu Pettis is looking for a guillotine. Now Pettis looks for the triangle and lands punches as the round ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Pettis
My score card: 29-28 Pettis

Result: Darnell Pettis by Split Decision (29-28/28-29/30-27)

5. Amateur 150LBS
Sarah Shirey (0-0 All-Out Assault) vs Jena Baldwin (0-0 Eric Hibler's MMA)

RD 1: They trade hard shots. Takedown by Baldwin. Body shots from the bottom by Shirey. Baldwin gets mount and lands punches. Baldwin goes for an armbar and has it tight. Great job by Shirey to scape. Baldwin goes for the armbar again and has it tight again but once again Shirey does a great job to escape as the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Baldwin

RD 2: They go to touch gloves and instead Shirey throws a leg kick, getting a laugh from Baldwin. Cross by Baldwin. Baldwin gets a takedown into side control. Baldwin hooks an arm triangle and gets the tap.

Result: Jena Baldwin by Tapout (Arm Triangle) at :52 of Round 2

6. Amateur Lightweight
Russell Kile (0-0 Independent) vs Sammy Callari (1-1 Griffon Rawl)

RD 1: Push kick by Callari. Hook by Kile. Kile shoots in but cant get the takedown. He tries again bu Callari sprawls. They trade hard hooks. Callari drops him with a hook and gets on top and lands punches till the ref stops it.

Result: Sammy Callari by TKO at 1:07 of Round 1

7. Amateur Middleweight
Kevin Bailey (1-0 Western New York Self Defense) vs Nick Halkides (1-1 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: Jab by Halkides. Hard hook by Halkides. They clinch and move to the cage. Bailey gets a takedown and side control. Bailey gets mount but Halkides quickly gets half guard and then full guard. Halkides goes for armbar but Bailey escapes. Two head shots by Bailey. Halkides gets the armbar again and gets the tap.

Result: Nick Halkides by Tapout (Armbar) at 1:36 of Round 1

8. Amateur Light Heavyweight
Dan Stevenson (3-0 Dojo Fight Club) vs Mike Noble (3-1 Prodigy MMA)

RD 1: Stevenson shoots and gets a takedown. Stevenson pushes him to the cage. Stevenson gets a guillotine but Noble pulls his head out and is on top. Head shots by Noble. Now body shots by Noble. The ref stands them. Leg kick by Noble. They clinch on the cage and Noble gets a takedown. North south position for Noble. Body shots by Noble.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Noble

RD 2: They trade hooks. Another hook by Stevenson. They clinch against the cage and Noble lands a knee to the leg. They separate and Stevenson shoots and gets a takedown into mount. Head shots by Stevenson. Noble rolls and gets on top in side control. Body shots by Noble. Stevenson rolls and gets mount. Head shots by Stevenson.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Stevenson

RD 3: Between rounds the doctor says Nobles arm or shoulder is injured and stops the fight.

Result: Dan Stevenson by Doctors Stoppage after Round 2

9. Amateur Middleweight
Tony Dipiero (6-6 Rising Dragon) vs John Burbol (5-5 Griffon Rawl)

RD 1: Burbol lands a hook and an uppercut. They clinch against the cage and Burbol lands body shots. Knee to the body by Burbol. Knee to the leg by Dipiero and another. More knees by Dipiero. The ref separates them. They clinch and move to the cage Knee to the leg by Dipiero. More knees by Dipiero. Punch to the head by Dipiero. Punch to the head by Burbol. They separate and trade shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Dipiero

RD 2: Hard uppercut and hook by Burbol drops him. Burbol goes down after him but Dipiero gets on top in guard. Body shots by Dipiero. Burbol pushes him off and stands. Dipiero clinches and they move to the cage. Knees to the leg by Dipiero. Body shots by Dipiero. They trade punches. Uppercut by Dipiero. Knee to the body by Burbol. Takedown by Dipiero and he gets side control. Body shots by Dipiero.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Dipiero

RD 3: Hook by Burbol. They clinch and move to the cage. Punch to the body by Burbol. Knee to the body by Burbol and another. Knee to the leg by Dipiero. More knees by Dipiero. Knee to the body by Burbol. Knees to the leg by Dipiero. Nice slam by Dipiero. Dipiero gets side control and lands body shots. Dipiero goes for an arm but the round ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Dipiero
My score card: 30-27 Dipiero

Result: Tony Dipiero by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/3-27)

10. Amateur 110LBS
Amber Sacramone (0-0 All-Out Assault) vs Jessica Dinch (0-3 Independent)

RD 1: They trade shots and clinch on the cage. Nice throw by Sacramone. Dinch turns into her and they stand still clinched. Knee by Dinch. They separate and Dinch hurts her with two hard hooks. Dinch lands hard shots against the cage. They clinch and drop down. Dinch is in guard and postures up and lands hard shots and then lands body shots. More hard punches to the head by Dinch.
I scored RD 1: 10-8 Dinch

RD 2: They clinch and drop down with Dinch on top. Dinch stands and lets her up. Two hard hooks by Dinch. Dinch has her running away with hard shots. They clinch and drop down with Dinch on top in half guard. Body shots from the bottom by Sacramone. Sacramone rolls and gets on top and lands body shots. Dinch rolls and gets side control. Knees to the body by Dinch. Body shots land for Dinch. Dinch goes for a key lock as the round ends.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Dinch

RD 3: Dinch hurts her with a hook. Dinch lands hard shots and Sacramone covers up. Dinch keeps landing till the ref stops it.

Result: Jessica Dinch by TKO at :27 of Round 3

11. Amateur Lightweight
Devonte Smith (2-1 Brickhouse MMA) vs Josh Kallai (3-2 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: They clinch and Kallai gets a takedown. Kallai pushes him to the cage and gets mount. Smith does a nice job to stand. Punches by Smith. They clinch against the cage. Takedown into side control by Kallai. Kallai gets mount. Body shots by Kallai. Smith rolls into him and gets on top. Head shots by Smith.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Kallai

RD 2: Hook by Smith. Clinch and takedown by Kallai. Kallai gets mount and then gets his back. Head shots by Kallai. Now Kallai moves back to mount. Kallai then gets side control and an arm triangle for the tap.

Result: Josh Kalli by Ta pout (Arm Triangle) at 1:32 of Round 2

12. Pro Lightweight
Brandon Suber (14-4 Walker MMA) vs Terry Blackwell (7-1 Instigator Fight Team)

RD 1: Jab by Suber and another. Hook by Blackwell. Leg kick by Suber. Leg kick by Blackwell. They trade hooks. Hard cross by Blackwell. Jab by Blackwell. Leg kick by Suber. Body kick by Suber. Cross by Blackwell. They trade hooks. Leg kick by Suber. They trade hard punches. They clinch on the cage and quickly separate and trade hard shots. Leg kick by Suber. They again trade hard shots. Hook by Blackwell. Cross by Suber. Hard hook by Blackwell. Body kick by Suber, but he falls down and Blackwell gets on top. They quickly stand and clinch on the cage. Knee to the body by Suber.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Suber

RD 2: Cross by Suber. Leg kick by Suber. They trade hooks. Suber charges in and they trade shots. Suber tries a spinning back fist and misses and they clinch and quickly separate. Cross by Blackwell. Hook and uppercut by Suber. Hook by Blackwell. Suber has a small cut under his eye. Hard hook by Blackwell. Leg kick by Suber and another. Body kick by Suber. Hook by Blackwell. Head kick by Blackwell. They clinch against the cage. Knee to the body by Blackwell. They separate and Blackwell catches a leg kick and lands a punch. Hard body kick by Blackwell. They clinch and drop down with Blackwell looking for a guillotine. Suber escapes and they stand. They clinch and Blackwell lands a knee to the head. They trade shots.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Backwell

RD 3: Hook by Blackwell. Leg kick by Suber. Hook by Suber. Hook by Blackwell. Jab and hook by Blackwell. leg kick by Suber. Hook and cross by Suber. Leg kick by Blackwell. Leg kick by Suber. Hook by Suber. Leg kick by Suber. Two hooks by Blackwell. Leg kick by Blackwell. Body kick by Suber. Two hooks by Blackwell. Push kick by Suber. Leg kick by Suber. Body kick by Suber. Hook by Blackwell. They trade hard punches. Two hooks by Blackwell. Two hooks by Suber. Body kick by Suber. Hook by Blackwell drops him but he is right back up. They clinch against the cage. Body shots by Suber.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Blackwell
My score card: 29-28 Blackwell

Result: Terry Blackwell by Split Decision (30-27/28-29/30-27)

13. Pro Featherweight Title
Jeremy Czarnecki (6-3 Murcielago MMA) vs Frank Caraballo (18-8 Fearless Fight Team)

RD 1: They clinch on the cage and Caraballo gets a takedown. Body shots by Caraballo. More body shots. Caraballo stands and drops down a punch. Czarnecki is trying for a triangle but Caraballo escapes and stands and lets him up. Hook by Caraballo. Hard hook by Caraballo. They clinch and Czarnecki gets a takedown into guard. Czarnecki lands two punches and they stand still clinched. takedown by Caraballo. Head shots by Caraballo. Head shots from the bottom by Czarnecki. Caraballo stands and lets him up. Caraballo catches a kick and Czarnecki lands a spinning kick with the other leg. Takedown by Caraballo. Czarnecki tries for a triangle and lands head shots.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Caraballo

RD 2: Spin kick to the body by Czarnecki. Hook by Caraballo. Caraballo drops him with a spinning back fist and lands more shots till the ref stops it.

Result: Frank Caraballo by TKO at :8 of Round 2

Submission of the Night: Nick Halkides

Knock-out of the Night: Jessica Dinch

Fight of the night: Amber Sacramone vs Jessica Dinch

IFBB Pro Emery Miller Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-5: RX Muscle

Emery Miller is a true story of overcoming obstacles and challenges. She has gone from overweight, battling two eating disorders to winning her IFBB bodybuilding pro car at the 2004 Nationals. Recently Emery took fifth place at the Chicago Pro, even more impressive when considering the level of competition she was up against. Emery looked incredible and had definitely added a good amount of muscle since she last competed in 2010. She is now getting ready for the Tampa Pro and as you will read, she feels even better than she did for Chicago. Will be very exciting to see what he brings to the stage in Tampa.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I was off and on skinny, fat, skinny, fat, from puberty on. I was a tiny little scrawny girl that was taught to compulsively over eat, it is the way my family raised me. Now, they have identified hormonal things that caused this, but at the time they didn't know this, my weight doubled in one year. That is the year I became body aware and was already obese. I ended up being bulimic, I have a dual eating disorder, compulsive over eating and bulimia. I have been in remission since 2006. It was on again off again dieting my whole life. BY the time I was married, it was 1998, I was diagnosed as significantly obese right after my husband was diagnosed morbidly obese. Having had injuries as a teenager, I was unable to sit on the toilet or couch by myself and they were talking about giving me a walker, I was only thirty-three years old. My ex husband was about to die because he was morbidly obese. I am also the child of a pastry baker so that doesn't help. So, we couldn't do aerobics because of the impact on his knees and my back, so we took up bodybuilding. I had no interest in bodybuilding, thought the girls were to big. Wanted to look like Lena Johansson because I thought she was the right size. I ended up doing so well that I decided to compete and three years later I won my pro card after losing one hundred and ten pounds. I don't have back issues anymore, my eating disorder will never be gone because it is like alcoholism, you are never not an alcoholic, but I have been in recovery since I started bodybuilding. It has healed me and saved my life. It has given me self-esteem, taught me to eat properly, saved my body so I can move.

Q: When you look back to when you started, would you have ever imagined adding the amount of muscle you have added?
A: I had no interest in adding any haha. I just wanted to lose weight. Up until last year I had no interest in being "big big", cause I didn't think I would enjoy feeling big. Since last year I have added six pounds of muscle and I love it so much. I am excited for the next off-season, I cant wait to get bigger.

Q: What made you decide to try and compete?
A: I don't know, I cant answer that, I just one day decided I was going to haha. The first time in my life I was good at something.

Q: You won your pro card at the 2004 Nationals...
A: Yeah, a lot of people including my dear friend Steve Wennerstrom, he is an amazing historian, but he always gets this wrong, he has corrected himself like five times, he keeps writing that I won my pro car as a lightweight. I won USA's in 2003 as a lightweight, I won my pro card at 2004 Nationals as a middleweight. I weighed 119LBS.

Q: When you realized you were getting your pro card, what went through your head?
A: Steve was backstage and I asked him "are you sure that's all I have to do?" It was just unreal. I had read that only one in sixty get their pro card, and it seemed like "that's it?" You don't realize when you get your pro card that that really is it. The magazine articles pretty much stop, you don't get as many photos, you don't get as much attention, your opportunities are cut as far as stage goes. As an amateur you are used to getting trophies all the time when you are good, that pretty much stops because now it is all people who are worthy of pro cards. There are a lot less shows. As an amateur their are like eight shows per states, as a pro there are eight shows total maybe. You have to find different ways for gratification. Doing all this work and getting a trophy makes it seem worth it, doing all this work and getting nothing but a t-shirt makes it difficult to mentally justify training all the time.

Q: You just took fifth at the Chicago pro....
A: And incidentally that is the first trophy I have gotten as a pro haha, since 2004 till now.

Q: There were a lot of good competitors on that stage, so how happy were you with that?
A: Overjoyed. I have always hoped for top five. I have always wanted that. We all want first, but having not broken the top five, it was huge for me. I was the only one backstage jumping up and down like a goober. Everyone was laughing at me as I was skipping all over the place. I brought that big check home, the big cardboard one. It is on my book shelf haha.

Q: It has been two years since you competed, why did you pick his show?
A: I never intend to skip a year, it's cause I cant afford to compete. It costs more than five thousand dollars to get ready for a show.

Q: You mentioned the added muscle, in pictures it also appeared your conditioning was better, would you agree?
A: I don't see that, I only see the added muscle. I am too close to it maybe. My conditioning has always been decent, but my skin is tighter because of the extra muscle. I have had Dave Palumbo for the last five years and I always feel I go on stage dry.

Q: When are you competing next?
A: I am doing Tampa, then whenever the next viable show is. I don't pick them by where they are or who is in them. It is what show is most advantageous for my off-season.

Q: It is not much time, but from Chicago to Tampa, how do you want to be better?
A: I know I look better already. The last thirty days training for Chicago was horrendous. There was a week I didn't make the gym when I got sick, there was a week my training was bad cause I had lost motivation. The worst last thirty days for a show I ever had.

Q: Well if it was that bad and you looked that good with all that going on...
A: I have been hitting it hard.

Q: When you are in the gym, do you get a lot of stares or attention?
A: I work out when the gym is closed at 1:00am. There is not even any staff there. When I was at a gym that was open, I had gotten starred at when I was fat so much that I never see anyone looking at me. People always ask me that, and I never see it. If I went through my day paying attention to other peoples reaction of me, I would never get anything done. My day is so busy I don't have time to notice what everyone else is noticing.

Q: You have a website, you want to mention that and tell people what is there?
A: I just put it back up. It was down for six years because I had a really sleazy webmaster that deleted all the content. It is up now, it has new videos and will have new stuff coming once I can focus on it. It is emerymiller.com. Tons of stuff on there and more to come. My webmaster is amazing and I don't have to worry about the crap I had before. I am so excited about my new life and where things are going. I am excited to step on stage again. I am hoping for top five again. I have always been proud to be top ten to be honest, coming from obese like I was. I will be at the Olympia whether I qualify or not, so if you see me say hi. I don't like it when people say "we say you" but didn't say hi.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: Dave Palumbo, he has to be the most patient man ever. I must have been like bridezilla with the diet. My brother Jack is an amazing support. My boyfriend in England has been there for me night and day. My daughter, my dog for putting up with not getting scraps off my plate haha. Everyone from facebook and chat rooms. We wouldn't have a sport if it wasn't for them. Female bodybuilders don't have a lot of support except from our fans. Fans keep us here and have been so good to us. I am so grateful to them for the support and positive words.

IFBB Pro Cynthia Colon Interview

Photo Credits:
Photos 1-2: Chris Zimmerman
Photos 3-5: RX Muscle


After starting in figure and doing really well, Cynthia Colon made the switch to bodybuilding and impressively won her pro card very quickly at the 2011 Team Universe. Instead of rushing to compete as a pro, Cynthia has waited to make her pro debut, wanting to make the improvements she feels she needs for the pro stage. As with everything Cynthia has done since she first stepped on stage, Cynthia will surely make those improvements and continue to impress each time she steps on stage.



Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym
A: Back in 2000, I was dating somebody who competed and although I didn't know anything about it he introduced me and got me hooked to the world of bodybuilding. After going to one of his shows, I pointed to the figure ladies and said, "that is gonna be me one day." Friends laughed because I was a much smaller little thing who never really trained, but once I started going to the gym it was all over. I was one of those girls who went to "tone up" and stay fit. Once I started noticing the changes my body was going though there was no stopping me and years later in 2007, I finally started training for my first figure competition.

Q: When you started to add size, did any friends or family react negative?
A: Honestly, no. I've always had a stocky look because I am so short. Once I started adding muscle, it was a bit more obvious and people would actually compliment me. Dad makes fun of me all the time, which is typical, but Grandma gets upset when she makes a delicious dinner and I bring my plain chicken & veggies. She's finally starting to understand it all though. All of my friends support me one hundred percent, even the ones who have no idea what I am doing are at the shows cheering me on. It's such a great feeling to have that support system behind me.

Q: A lot of people say after the first time, competing becomes addicting, was that the case with you?
A: Yes and no. I love the feeling of competing, not against other people, but against myself. I love the challenge to better myself each and every time. From where I started to where I was when I first competed was a huge change that I was so proud of. It's almost like you want to get up there on stage just to display your hard work. At the same time, it's not too addicting because you can't stay in competition shape forever....it almost messes with your mind. Eventually once you start eating normal food your body changes again. I'm not competing this year, but I AM dying to get on stage. For me it's all about having fun, more of an 'expensive' hobby, not a career. I love meeting new people, learning new things associated with training and helping friends who are competing...so I guess you can say the whole industry is kind of addicting.

Q: As you mentioned, you started in figure, why did you switch to bodybuilding?
A: After winning the overall in my second figure show in 2007, I continued training as hard as I could and started prepping for another show in 2009. After not placing too well in those shows, most of the judges' feedback was that I was "too big" and carried "too much muscle". They offered advice and told me to stop training legs, do extra cardio, do this or don't do that. I go to the gym because I like to train and lift heavy. I challenge myself every day. It wasn't worth it to stop training the way I wanted to so my only other option at the time was to switch to bodybuilding. After seeing a few female bodybuilders at the local shows I figured, I can do that - and now I love it.

Q: Your first time in bodybuilding was the 2011 Garden State and you won, at that point did you realize bodybuilding was the right decision for you?
A: Definitely!! Just the feedback I have gotten from friends and people I met throughout the years confirmed that I made the right decision as well. I look at my figure pictures and can't even believe that's me. At first I was a nervous wreck to try bodybuilding - I'm really a shy person - and to get up on stage shaking my everything and flexing in front of a room full of people almost felt unreal. However I had so much fun with my routine that I couldn't wait to compete again. I think I definitely made the right move!!

Q: You won your pro card at the 2011 Team Universe, can you describe the feeling when you realized you were a pro?
A: Oh my gosh, it still hasn't hit me yet, even after a year!!! It was crazy. I remember being onstage, completely nervous, even shaking. I was even competing against friends of mine, but I was just happy to at least be in top 5. Once they called 5th, 4th, 3rd and 2nd in my class, and I was still standing there I was totally in shock. At the overall, when they called my number (#72) I couldn't believe it!! I cried backstage, I'm telling you it still hasn't hit me. My friends tease me all the time saying, "Oh I train with an IFBB pro" and I laugh like, oh yea that's me......it just doesn't sound right. The first time I actually said, yes I'm a pro bodybuilder was when a woman at the gym complimented my physique. With all that said, I've learned that I really can do anything I put my mind to. I didn't expect to win my pro card at only my second bodybuilding show so I always say that I was "in the right place at the right time" - everyone assures me that I deserved the win because I put in the hard work and looked great. It really makes me feel better to know that people actually acknowledge and appreciate all the hard work.

Q: You still have not made your pro debut, is there a reason you have waited?
A: There were a lot of areas I felt needed improvement such as my conditioning, back and abs. My lower body is a lot bigger and overpowers my upper body so I am working on bringing my upper body up to match. I also want to feel comfortable on stage with all the great pro ladies. I didn't want to jump in to anything and not be completely prepared. Everything has to be as perfect as possible, from posing, routine and suit...I'm learning as I go along, but I really am excited to get back on stage!!

Q: Do you have any idea when you will compete again?
A: It all depends on the schedule next year and where I am physically. I know there should be at least four shows, but just have to see when they are. I'd like to try and compete at the Europa in Hartford or Tampa Pro. Again I also have to take in to consideration where my physique is at that point - I'm dieting now to see where I am and get an idea of what additional changes I may need to make.

Q: You kind of touched on it, but from Team Universe to when you do compete, where do you want to be better?
A: I would absolutely love to get more lines in my legs, cut them up and shred them. My abs and back both need work as well. I'm happy with my improvements so far and as long as I'm better than last year I will be even happier!

Q: This year at Team Universe there were so few girls who did bodybuilding, as a female bodybuilder does that upset you?
A: Absolutely. I was surprised there were only a few girls competing. I think a lot of girls are just switching to the new physique division. I wish more ladies would stay with bodybuilding and not switch divisions. I really want to see female bodybuilding stick around - there is so much gossip about it disappearing soon. Only time will tell, but with all the different judging patterns at every show (local and national), you don't know what to expect. Can I compete with the already established pros? Who knows, but I hope I get the chance to find out.

Q: When you are in the gym, girls your size are not common, do you get a lot of attention or stares?
A: Honestly, I know pretty much everyone in my gym so they already know my routine. New people walking through or training may see me with my gallon, training with the guys and stop to stare. The younger guys look at my like, what the hell? I do get a few compliments from people I don't know or someone asking if I need a spot. I welcome the strange looks and it makes me feel good when I notice someone watching me (even though I'm shy). Some girls don't like how I look, but then again they don't have to look at me at all, haha

Q: When you are in public do you dress to cover it up and avoid attention or dress to show it off?
A: It all depends on how I'm feeling. There are days I throw on a tank and shorts and then days I'm in jeans and a t-shirt. My friends try and dress me up when we go out but it's all weird to me. I'm a very simple person and I like to be comfortable. When I train I wear layers, especially in Winter. Slowly though, as I see changes, I start peeling off layers. Now that my legs are one of my favorite body parts, which again I used to be shy about, I do try to show them off a little.

Q: If you could spend a day training with anyone who would you pick?
A: There are so many great athletes out that's it's hard to choose just one. Alina Popa has been one of my favorites for a while, but again I'd love to train with each of them, pick their brain about this and that and just learn everything possible.


Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: First and foremost, my mom who passed away in 2005. She was such a strong woman, both physically and mentally and such an inspiration to me. She has given me the strength to do what I do and it is because of her that I am what I am today. I would also like to thank Chris Z for pushing me to do my best, over the past few years and helping me win my pro card. My training buddy Joe G for his brutal honesty and my family and friends, who are all overly supportive and put up with me during contest prep (even though they tend to eat all the good stuff I can't have in front of me).

Jayce-lyn Jean Interview

I came across Jayce-lyn Jean on my fan page. Didn't know who she was or anything about her. Just knew that she looked pretty impressive and was probably new to competing and those are two things I like in someone I interview. Then I got to know a little of her story and was really excited to interview. Jayce-lyn went from being overweight to looking as good as she does now. She clearly enjoys the training and competing and has the right attitude to go a long way in the fitness industry.

Q: Can you talk about how you got started in the gym?
A: I was in a bad relationship and that was my away time. My time where I could not have to answer to anybody and I was in control of it. I was almost 200 pounds and so it was to lose weight.

Q: How long were you training when you decided to compete and why did you decide to compete?
A: I had been training about six and a half years. I had gotten to a point where I was in decent shape, I had been a trainer and it was the next step to challenge myself.

Q: Often people who don't know the sport don't understand it. Did you have to explain to people it wasn't a T&A thing and that it was fitness?
A: Yeah, a lot of people stereotype it. They don't understand it. They think you just stand up there in a bathing suit and it's a lot more disciplined than that. Still, every day someone asks me about it and you have to go through how it isn't just about how you look, it's about discipline and control.

Q: Was there any part of prep that was harder than you expected?
A: I expected it to be harder. I had already gone through a clean diet without any processed foods, sugars, things like that. The hard part was that I am a school bus driver and have to be at work at 5:45 during the school year, so getting up at 3:30 to go to the gym the first time was hard.

Q: Right before you went on stage, were you nervous at all?
A: The moment right before I think the nerves just kind of go away, but yeah I was nervous up until I saw the lights. That's how it was for me.

Q: Overall, was the competing experience what you expected or was anything different than expected?
A: It wasn't quite what I expected. A lot of the girls were less competitive than I thought they were going to be. I put a higher expectation on myself and some people I don't think took it as seriously health wise as I did.

Q: Some people say competing becomes an addiction, was that the case for you?
A: Yeah, I definitely wanna do it again. You wanna top what you did last time and continue to challenge yourself.

Q: Any idea when you want to compete again?
A: I am hoping to do a show on August 18th if my body responds.

Q: What show is tat?
A: It is the INBF here in New Haven, Connecticut.

Q: If you do it, where would you like to be better at from the last one?
A: I came in really really lean the first time which is great, but I felt I was a little too small and I needed to put on a little muscle. With the show so close, I might not be able to do that. I also wanna work on a little bit of stage presence. It is a learning experience.

Q: A lot of people who compete the first time don't understand the importance of stage presence. Now that you have done a show, can you explain how important it is?
A: I have to say it is probably fifty percent of how they look at you. They are looking at your structure and all the hard work you put in, but you go up there and don't smile and present it the right way they wont see what you worked so hard for. It is tough to smile, you are trying to flex and not look like you are straining, you are tired and dehydrated. You just have to just go with it and pretend haha.

Q: Are there any competitors you look up to?
A: There are a few. My coach, I see what he is capable of and where he has come from. And my posing coach Michelle Brent. Her personality, teaching me how to pose. She has great stage presence. Somebody like Ava Cowan, her physique is phenomenal. I hope to look half as good as she does.


Q: What is your normal training routine like?
A: Typically it is a five day. I pick one body part and focus on it. I do cardio every day, I think it is important. Some days I do twenty minutes and some I might do forty-five. I like to do the Monday through Friday thing so I have the weekend. Now that I have been doing the three day split I like the random off day in the middle of the week.

Q: Do you get a lot of unwanted attention in the gym?
A: not really. I belong to a private club and it is mostly an older crowd which is great. They are supportive and ask why I work so hard. A couple ladies found out after I competed and wanted to take me to lunch. I do belong to one of the chain gyms but they just come in to work out.

Q: Is there anything else such as fitness modeling that you want to do?
A: I would be interested in learning and trying anything. Modeling was something I thought about before, not just fitness modeling. I have always been told since I am 5'9" and up until six years ago I wasn't skinny but I have lost all the weight so people started asking. I am not into marathons, I really like lifting weights.

Q: If you could spend one day training with anyone, who would you pick?
A: Probably my own coach. Everyone has a story, but I know him and have seen it first-hand. He can push me farther than someone who doesn't know me.

Q: Anyone you want to thank?
A: Michelle Brent and my coach Marc Andrade. I have tons of questions and they are there to answer them.