Talkin’ MMA with Ryan Shamrock
By Mark Malinowski
MMA newcomer Ryan Shamrock will attempt to win his second professional fight on March 8 in London, England at the Wembley Arena. The Show will be headlined by Ryan’s father, the living legend Ken Shamrock. Young Ryan Shamrock took time out to speak with us from Reno, Nevada:
MMAMemories.com: What was it like growing up as the son of the legendary Ken Shamrock? And now fighting as his son? Do you feel like you have some pretty big shoes to fill?
Ryan Shamrock: “Growing up is actually normal for me. I’ve known him forever, it’s no big deal. About filling shoes - no, I see it as fun for me. I just go out there and enjoy that I’m doing it.”
MMAMemories.com: What got you into fighting? You were in culinary school?
Ryan Shamrock: “Yeah I was in culinary school. But I just couldn’t get away from fighting no matter what. I guess it’s just in my blood. It’s something I guess I just had to do.”
MMAMemories.com: Talk about the experience of your first pro fight, the pressure, the expectation, your mind-set going in.
Ryan Shamrock: “At first I was nervous, walking out there not knowing what was going to happen. But at the same time I was excited about it, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. All I remember after it was over what a great feeling it was to win. That feeling made me want to keep on doing it.”
MMAMemories.com: You won in the first round, right? Where was the fight at?
Ryan Shamrock: “Yeah, I ended up winning in one minute and :50 by a guillotine. The fight was in Oroville, CA.”
MMAMemories.com: Do you think it’s harder for you with the name ‘Shamrock?’ Is it extra pressure?
Ryan Shamrock: “No, I don’t really pay attention to the extra pressure. To me, it’s just my last name.”
MMAMemories.com: You must have spent a lot of time at the Lion’s Den growing up. What’s it like for you being in that atmosphere of the Den?
Ryan Shamrock: “It’s actually interesting. All of the fighters I’ve known basically my entire life, like Vernon and Pete. Being there is basically like hanging out at the gym with my family.”
MMAMemories.com: What did you think of the portrayal of your dad on the Ultimate Fighter TV show? Was it fair? Do you think it was accurate?
Ryan Shamrock: “I actually didn’t really watch the show at all. I never really watched the show at all.”
MMAMemories.com: Why did you skip it?
Ryan Shamrock: “I was just busy with practice and stuff I need to take care of.”
MMAMemories.com: What are your thoughts on the Ken vs. Frank Shamrock fight which will happen later this year?
Ryan Shamrock: “I think it’ll be a good fight. They both trained together, they’re both really good at what they do. And it’ll be a very interesting fight.”
MMAMemories.com: And last, how is Grandpa Bob doing these days?
Ryan Shamrock: “He’s doing good right now. Just taking care of himself, staying healthy.”
MMAMemories.com: Nice job Ryan, very good interview for a rookie. Thank you and best of luck in your next match in London and I look forward to interviewing you again in the future.
Ryan Shamrock: “Thanks a lot.”
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