What’s your favorite move?
I love the guillotine choke. Do you know what that is?
Not really.
If someone’s doing a takedown on you, you get his neck—he’s facing you, and you’re on top of him—and you choke him that way.
—Pete Sell
What is Muay Thai?
It is the No. 1 sport in Thailand, like baseball in America.
What makes you a good fighter?
I have a good heart, I’m courageous, and I’m smart.
—Natthakan Phongsila (left)
When’s your next fight?
December 4th, and I think I’m going to murder him. He paints his nails and pierces his lip—there’s no way I can lose to an emo guy like that.
—Kit Cope, (right)
Professional MMA Fighter
Do you like being the center of all this male attention?
All my private parts are covered, so I don’t think I have anything to worry about.
—Jennifer Podolak (left)
Model
Have you dated an MMA fighter?
One of my ex-boyfriends is training to be one, but I wouldn’t date another—they’re all a little crazy.
—Jessica Ciszek (right)
Student
Your family’s Persian; was your career choice a shock to them?
At first; now my dad’s fine with it. Women don’t show their bodies in Iran, but I work out to make my body beautiful, so why not show it off?
—Mehrak “Mary” Radparvar (far left)
Fitness Model
How long have you been doing karate?
Since I was 4. It helps with self-discipline. I’m almost a black belt, but I have to work on my kickboxing first.
Who’s your favorite UFC fighter?
Wanderlei Silva. He’s here today! I just got his autograph.
—Tyler Berthold, 7 (left)
Student
Do your looks intimidate people?
Yeah, walking around in the street and in the bars, no one messes with me. But in the ring, it’s a different story.
—Sergio Allegretti (right)
Motorcycle Salesman and Amateur MMA Fighter
Interviews by Emma Rosenblum.