Interview with Michelle Tyler
Michelle Tyler is a professional MMA fighter and trains at London Shootfighters. Michelle began training in Thai Boxing back in 2002 and by 2008 had a number of professional fights under her belt. It was also in 2008 when she found MMA and on 4th December 2010 she competed in her debut MMA fight at UCMMA and was the winner by TKO in the third round. Michelle has kindly taken time out from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for us.
Who is your main instructor at London Shootfighters?
Alexis Demetriades and Paul Ivans. They have coached for Olympic Wreslting and UFC fighters such as Mariuz Zaromski and John Hathaway.
Do you have different instructors for different aspects of your fighting?
I have several coaches: Paul Ivans for ground work, Alexis Demetriades for Sparring. My boxing coach is called Steve Newland and also coaches for the Olympics. I also get help from many of the fighters at our gym, with Thai Boxing and padwork etc.
Do you ever train with the male fighters in your club and if so who?
Yes, most of the time! Georgio Andrews, Pro MMA fighter 7-0-0 is my usual sparring partner before a fight. But there are many guys that I train with.
What’s your martial arts background?
I started as a Thai Boxer. I found that I would frequently get an opponent to the floor and thought it would be good if I was allowed to keep them there!! ... So I started MMA.
Obviously fighters always strive to improve their game; is there any area in particular you would like to polish up on?
Yes...all of them! The thing about MMA is there are so many aspects of training, whether it's wrestling, Boxing, submissions, cardio etc. There are always some more techniques to learn or fitness that could be improved.
How long have you been involved in MMA?
Few years ago I started to grapple with the purpose of competing in MMA. I found it a little strange at first, being the only female in the gym and dealing with the guys’ friendly (but often unfunny) attempt at humour!! But I stuck with it and the jokes have got a little better.
What was your inspiration to do MMA and what do you like so much about it?
It's a fantastic sport that pushes you to be as healthy as possible. It challenges you physically and mentally. People love to watch it, and the support I get from friends, family and coaches is amazing. That would be my favourite part of competing.
Who’s your favourite MMA fighter and why?
I have many and they change from time to time, but always Jose Aldo. He is amazing and very entertaining and inspirational to watch.
What message do you have for females wanting to start out in MMA?
If you love it... Do it!!
How do you feel about an amateur MMA social networking site where fighters can chat, exchange fighting/health tips and just generally improve their knowledge?
It's a fantastic idea and I'm sure would be appreciated by many.
MMA Prospects UK would like to say a very big thank you to Michelle for taking part in this interview and we wish her all the best for the future. Check out the video footage of her professional debut below and I'm sure you'll agree that she is a great athlete and top contender in the World of womens MMA.