Mike Rhodes is one of the main card fighters for the upcoming “Atonement” mixed martial arts event by the Prestige FC.
“I can’t wait to show the Saskatchewan people what a roufusport style of violence looks like,” said Rhodes, who hails from Iowa. As a three-time UFC competitor, Rhodes will battle Taki Uluilakepa during the main card.
“I’m looking forward to finishing off a great first Prestige FC card in style and gaining another win and gaining some Canadian fans from having a great performance against one of their own!”
It was a change of plans that pushed Rhodes to pursue competing as a mixed martial arts fighter.
“I used to play college basketball, but my weight rocketed up to 270 from injuries and wanted to get in shape. I found fitness kickboxing, then joined the real fight classes and loved it. I then took a fight after a month won and been fighting every sense!”
Now, Mike is a five-year veteran as a fighter.
One of the most challenging aspects for Rhoades is keeping his weight in check. “You are trying to always stay in shape (for fights). My whole life style went from uneducated about nutrition to losing nearly 100 pounds since becoming a fighter!”
When it comes to going on the fighting ring, Mike prefers to take the situation seriously and prepared.
“I don’t have any rituals, because rituals to me are another way to mask fear and fear is something I’m not familiar with when it comes to fighting!”
His main focus is taking down his opponenet quickly and efficiently. “Any strike that or move that lands and wins the fight.”
To get prepared as a mixed martial artist, Mike also takes his training very seriously. “I train with Matt Gifford at Nx Level which is a strength and conditioning center! I also love to train and so I’m always in the gym and recently opened my own tae Kwon do school called family tae Kwon do of champions so I’m always active in my training to be a complete martial artist.
He said that one thing that a lot of people don’t relize is how dedication is required for mixed martial arts. “It can be very demanding, it is on your personal relationships, weather it’s friends, fans, family or significant other girl friend or wife.”
Mike is very passionate when it comes to his own ta Kwon do school. “It is a hobby that has grown into a career!”
“Other than that I’m a typical mid west guy, I like to be outside and active mountain biking, shooting guns, chopping wood with my brotha Dustin Ortiz!
“I love getting tattooed as well,” added Rhodes.
