Last Updated on March 14, 2013.
Malik “Heartbreak” Blake Answers Questions About His Debut Boxing Match and Training at Tiger Schulmann’s MMA
by Dax Alexander
Photos by FightNightPics.com
Malik Blake recently won his debut boxing match against Connor McFarland via unanimous 3-round decision at Hoboken Fight Night VII. It was Malik’s second time in the ring, and his second unanimous win. Though training as a mixed martial artists at Tiger Schulmann’s Manhattan Gym, Heartbreak, like many MMA fighters, decided to try his hand at boxing (literally). He sat down and answered a few questions about his fight camp and training in general.
When did you start training?
I started training about 3 years ago. I saw the movie “Never Back Down” and instantly fell in love with MMA. It’s a little weird because literally the next morning I got a call from one of my friends telling me how fun MMA is and that I should go and train with him at his gym. I was in there the next day… And that was the start.
What made you choose Tiger Schulmann’s?
I got an invitation into Tiger Schulmann’s, but what convinced me was watching all of the catchy Tiger Schulmann’s commercials. Those things used to come on my TV back to back. That “Kick it with the tiger” song is engraved into my brain lol
How long did you train for this fight?
3 months. I know, it doesn’t sound like much but those 3 months felt like 3 years. But I’m glad I trained that way because it definitely paid off. It’s the best feeling to be in a fight and come off the chair fresh when your opponent is winded.
What was your diet like?
I don’t diet, I eat what I think works for me and work hard to burn it off. That said, I tend to stay away from soda and fried food.
As an aspiring MMA Fighter, what were some of your concerns about going into a boxing bout?
I was nervous because I was going up against a boxer. I train in Mixed Martial Arts. All that guy does is box. I mean, yeah, I was nervous and knew he was going to be good, but I never put myself down; I know I’m fast and I’m hard to hit, so that was my game plan, hit and don’t get hit. It worked out pretty well. I fought a good fight against a great opponent and barely got touched.
True. Your movement was incredible, so what was your main objective going into the fight?
My main objective was to win. I really want to stay undefeated throughout my ENTIRE career, Amateur & Professional. I felt that I was going to win, but I was worried that I’d let the pressure and the crowd get to me and not be able to perform. But I didn’t, and I beat the guy, so it’s cool lol.
How many days a week did you train?
I trained everyday. Monday through Friday were my hardcore training sessions and the weekends were light training days.
So you were in the gym everyday? What inspires you to work so hard?
Well, a few years ago I made a promise to my mother. I told her that I would move her to a house anywhere she wants in the world, and she will never have to pay another bill again. So every time I have the urge to quit, I think about the smile on my mother’s face when I tell her she doesn’t have to work anymore. I just want her to be proud and happy. It’s a bit ironic because although she’s scared out of her mind to watch me step in the cage or the ring, I’m fighting for her.
What? Your fight career scares your mom?
Are you kidding? My mom is TERRIFIED! She always tells me that there are other things I could do in life. I used to mess with her and tell her that I had fights scheduled against guys that were undefeated with like 20 fights just to see the look on her face. It’s hilarious. When I had my first fight she was absolutely beside herself in fear, but as she saw how dedicated and hardworking I was, she started to calm down.
I’ve trained with you bro. Your mom should be scared for the rest of us. Not for you, lol. But seriously, without pressing you for your actual age (many of your new fans want to know) tell me this: Are you old enough to vote and/or drink?
Very funny. Yes, I am old enough to vote, and I don’t drink alcohol. It would affect my training.
Good stuff. So tell me, who are some of your inspirations?
Floyd Mayweather, Jose Aldo, Adrien Broner, Jon Jones, all of the young champions. They inspire me so much because that’s where I’ll be someday. They prove to me that it’s possible to be a world champ at a young age.
That’s a good list. Those are some great athletes with amazing skillsets. Speaking of skillsets, what are your favorite moves or techniques?
I can’t tell you my favorite moves because people will start looking out for them in sparring, but let’s say I love my right hand.
Noted bro! Thanks for taking time to let us know more about you and your training at TSMMA.
Look for more of Malik’s upcoming fights this year! This guy is championship bound.
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Dax Alexander is a mixed martial arts practitioner, personal trainer and writer for NewYorkNYMMA.com. Follow Dax on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DaxMMA