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"The Angel of Death" visits
with MMA-KO
By Gary Costa/MMA-KO
garycosta@mmako.com
 MMA-KO:
It goes without saying that we appreciate the time that you have set
aside for MMA-KO and all of the MMA-KO fans that are reading this!
De Anda:
No problem! I appreciate the time and opportunity that MMA-KO is
giving me, as well as all the love that MMA-KO has shown me
throughout my MMA career. Before I begin, I would like to thank all
my fans for their support, and also thank them for taking the time
to read through this interview!
MMA-KO: Before we begin, how did you get the moniker “The Angel
of Death”?
De Anda: One of the guys from the gym started calling me “The
Angel of Death” and it seemed kind of catchy to me, so I just rolled
with it.
MMA-KO: Briefly explain how and why you chose to get into the
fight game?
De Anda: (Serious) I have made some bad choices in my life,
which has taken everything away from me and to be able to provide
for my family. It was hard for me to get back on my feet and be a
provider again. I have always been a fan of all types of fighting,
and I knew that I could always fight because I had never been
beaten-up in a street fight. So at the time, MMA was kind of the
last resort for me.
 MMA-KO:
I have had the privilege to watch you “get after it” in training,
and it’s safe to say that you have tremendous moxie. Where does your
incredible drive derive from?
De Anda: It comes from me knowing that I don't have the
privilege as most fighters in MMA to call myself a martial artist -
because I’m not a martial artist. So to make up for my lack of
experience, I try to make up for it in my cardio, heart, and the
determination to win.
MMA-KO: You have been training under the watchful eye of
Professor Tom Theofanopoulos. What’s it like training under him?
De Anda: It's a privilege and a blessing to be under
Professor Tom. He really knows what he is doing and talking about. I
honestly believe that it is a blessing from God to have fallen into
Oakdale MMA. Everything they have done for me, and they have helped
me reach my goals - they don't make me feel like I'm just one of
their fighters, but part of their extended family.
 MMA-KO:
You’re a member of the Last Stand Fight Team. For those that may not
be too familiar with The Last Stand Fight Team, explain a little
about who they are and what it means to you by being a member of the
team.
De Anda: We are a bunch of hard working, special individuals
that have the drive and desire to be one of the best camps in MMA.
We honestly believe we have one of the best camps around and I feel
so deeply honored to be a part of the LAST STAND. The LAST STAND
FIGHT TEAM is more than a team, it's a FAMILY!
MMA-KO: Lets switch gears and talk about your upcoming fight against
James "The Sandman" Irvin, for the vacant Rebel Fighter Heavyweight
Championship fight, that is set to take place this Saturday. This
one should be hot, as you both know how to make the leather fly!
De Anda: Yes, it should! I feel like I have made the right
choice getting into MMA. To be able to be fighting world class
fighters, like James "The Sandman" Irvin, so early in my MMA career
is exciting. Making the leather fly is what will be happening this
Saturday night – guaranteed, it's not going to be a boring fight!
MMA-KO: Is it safe to say that this is the biggest fight of your
career thus far?
De Anda: YES!
 MMA-KO:
Looking into the future, what will be some of the thoughts that will
be floating through your mind before just before you enter the cage
this Saturday?
De Anda: That James "The Sandman" Irvin will not be allowing me
to use him as a stepping stone. But I'm prepared for a five-minute
five-round war.
I have heard people comment that this fight is a win, win for
you? Why?
De Anda: I believe this is a win, win fight for me because,
James "The Sandman" Irvin is a world class fighter and he has made a
big name for himself in this sport. To get a chance to fight him is
a boost in my career. Win or lose, it's an honor that Rebel Fighter
thought that I would be a great match up for him. And now with all
that said; I still plan and believe that I can win.
MMA-KO: Who are the guys helping you behind the scenes?
De Anda: There are so many people that have helped me for this
fight I really can't name all their names. I don't want to leave
anyone out, but the one person that I don't mind naming and singling
out is Professor Tom.
MMA-KO: Is it your ultimate goal to have UFC Octagon announcer
Bruce Buffer announce your name in the future?
De Anda: It is a goal! It would be a dream come true if reached,
and a great opportunity to be announced by Bruce Buffer.
MMA-KO: Well, we will end it hear and let you get back to
training. Do you have any parting comments?
De Anda: I would like to thank Professor Tom for all of his
support and allowing me to stay at the gym to prepare for this
fight. I would also like to thank his wife Lori for cooking my food
and welcoming me into their home. I would also like to thank
everybody in my gym for all the love and support, and for helping me
prepare for "The Sandman", and all my fantastic sponsors: Maisie's
Sushi House, Kutty Photography, Knoxx, No-Ko, Mygride.com, dpe
wheels. I would especially like to thank all of my family, friends,
and fans for supporting me throughout my career.
MMA-KO: Thank you for your time, Angel. Good luck this Saturday!
De Anda: Thank you!
For more information on the Last Stand Fight Team and Oakdale MMA,
be sure to check them out on the web at
www.oakdalemma.com.
Also, don’t forget to log on to
www.rebelfighter.net
to get your tickets for Saturday’s fights! |
