Fighter Focus: Getting to Know Rick “The Gladiator” Glenn

Fighter Focus: Getting to Know Rick “The Gladiator” Glenn
 
At MCC 25: “Inferno”, Rick Glenn put on one of the best performances of the night in his back and forth battle with Lonnie Scriven that resulted in a razor close split decision.  Even in losing, Glenn showed that he has what it takes to stand and trade punches with the best in the Midwest.  On June 11, Glenn will return to face fellow striker, Colby “Tha Alligator” Karaidos, a fellow ex-boxer turned mixed martial artist.  If this bout has any traits resembling Glenn’s last war, fight fans could be in for the fight of the year.
 
MCC:  Rick, welcome back to MCC.  For those who don’t know you, take a minute and tell the fans about yourself.
 
RG:  Hey, what’s up everyone?  For starters, I have been fighting almost my whole life.  I grew up in Marshalltown and I started boxing at age fourteen.  I boxed until the gym where I was training at closed their doors years later.  Some of my friends were training in mixed martial arts, and I wanted to give it a try.  I figured it would be an easy crossover given my background, and plus, I like to knock people out.  I compete in the lightweight division, which is 155 lbs.  I walk around at 170 lbs.
 
MCC:  Boxer turned MMA fighter?  Sounds like your opponent, Colby Karaidos!  What do you think about that?
 
RG:  Yeah, I know he likes to stand in the pocket and trade punches.  I think that’s going to fun.  Well, as long as he doesn’t hit me too hard!
 
MCC:  How is your training camp coming along for your fight preparation?
 
RG:  It’s going great.  I am in incredible shape.  In the past I have trained in basements, playgrounds…pretty much anywhere I could get a workout.  I made the move to Des Moines and have trained at DM MMA Academy, and most recently, I made the move to Des Moines Jiu Jitsu Academy where I get to train with UFC vets Kevin Burns, James Giboo, and a whole list of up and coming grapplers and fighters.  From time to time I will make it back to Marshalltown to train with some friends and at the YMCA.
 
MCC:  You have a lot of potential at a young age.  When did you take your first MMA fight?
 
RG:  Actually, I was seventeen years old.  I did not plan on fighting, but the promoter of a smaller event contacted me and said they needed a replacement fighter.  I thought it was a good opportunity to try it out.  Plus, I needed the money!  I had to work all day and when I left work, my (now) wife had everything ready for me.  I showed up in my Staples uniform and was told I had five minutes to get ready.  I changed into my fight gear, ran into the cage, and cut the guy up pretty good.  His corner threw in the towel and I won the fight.  The rest is history!
 
MCC:  Too bad all fights are not that easy!
 
RG:  I have had my share of ups and downs, but I have found a good home with MCC.  It’s great to get to compete for a big crowd and even better to be on television.  Plus, being able to train in Des Moines with so many talented fighters has helped my career so much.  I can’t wait for this to someday become my full time job.
 
MCC:  You definitely have the potential to become a great fighter.  What motivates you?
 
RG:  Rocky!  It’s my dream of becoming the best.  Ever since I was a young child, I always told myself that when things don’t go my way, someone out there has it worse than me.  I count my blessings because right now, everything is good.
 
MCC:  We look forward to seeing you back in the cage at MCC 27: “Mutapcic vs. Cummings” on June 11.  Is there anyone you’d like to thank?
 
RG:  Even though I don’t get to see them very often, I want to thank all of my friends and Marshalltown fans.  You guys are crazy!  Thank you all for the love and support.  Thanks to MCC, and I look forward to another great performance.