Fighter Focus: Getting to Know Luis “Jabz” Saldana

Fighter Focus: Getting to Know Luis “Jabz” Saldana
 
MCC:  Luis, welcome to MCC.  You’ve been tearing up the local amateur scene.  How does it feel to finally get your shot?
LS:  Thank you!  Yeah, I’m undefeated (9-0-0), and I plan to stay that way.  I have to say that I am pumped for the opportunity, and I cannot wait to unleash on my opponent.
 
MCC:  You have an interesting nickname.  How did you get it?
LS:  I’ve been called a lot of different names in the past. Growing up, my boxing coaches called me “Jabz” because that’s all it took for me to win fights- my jab.  But now I’m going to wait on a new fight name and see what MMA gives me.
 
MCC:  You have a boxing in background.  How long have you been involved in combat sports?
LS:   I started boxing when I was seven years old and took a break when I got into high school. I learned some wrestling, then got back in the ring in 2009. I won Golden Gloves that year and after that I just stopped boxing and wanted to try mixed martial arts. Me and my friends would throw back yard MMA fights and that’s when I realized this sport was for me.  Shortly after, I went to DMX and gave it a try against better competition.  Like I said- still undefeated!
 
MCC:  Do you get a lot of support from your friends and family?
LS:  Hell yeah!  I grew up on the East side, aka “the holy land”, so there were always plenty of fights to watch.  My friends and family are always there to cheer me on and give me support.  When I’m not doing this, I’m hanging out with them, grilling out, skateboarding.  Just living life.
 
MCC:  So, with your boxing background, would you way your strength is in your stand-up game?
LS:  For sure.  I try to be very technical with my hands, not throwing wild punches but rather to pick my shots and just mix it up with some kicks flows pretty well.  I like my jab. But also I stay focused on getting better at everything involved within mixed martial arts, and I have developed a good ground game.  I’m comfortable wherever the fight goes.  Right now, I feel like I’m just starting.  But, I have a feeling I will be around for a long time.  I always give 110% when it comes to competing, and I’ll give that extra push just to win.

MCC:  You are facing a fighter that you’ve fought before.  Your first fight went to a decision and he’s a boxer as well.  Do you think the fight will remain standing?
LS:  I think Steve (Green) is a good fighter.  The first one was good, so I expect this to be just as interesting.  He’s got some good hands, and I know he’s been working a lot on his ground game, but I just don’t see it going his way.  I plan on wearing him down when we are standing up.  If it goes to the ground, so be it.  Even if I don’t knock him out or make him tap, I’m still getting the win either way.
MCC:  It sound like the fight has the potential to be one of the best of the night.  Best of luck to you and we look forward to watching you compete.  Is there anything you’d like to add?
LS:  Steve- be ready.  MCC- here I come!