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Exclusive | MMA Fighter Veronika Smolkova Discusses Title Wins and Nude Modelling ‘Show off those girly things’

Exclusive | MMA Fighter Veronika Smolkova Discusses Title Wins and Nude Modelling 'Show off those girly things' Oktagon MMA fighter Veronika Smolkova is preparing for her next bout with a potential title opportunity on the horizon….

Oktagon MMA fighter Veronika Smolkova is preparing for her next bout with a potential title opportunity on the horizon. The Slovakian athlete has made a name for herself with her aggressive striking and finishing ability, and a victory in her upcoming fight could put her in line for a championship shot.

Veronika Smolkova

Speaking ahead of her fight, Smolkova expressed confidence in her preparation and reaffirmed her goal of securing a title. “I win this fight, and the belt is next,” she said. “I will do everything in my power to get it and defend it.”

“My dream is to do what I love, inspire others, and, along the way, maintain my joy, my happiness, and, most importantly, my health. I also see myself with titles—that’s a given.”

In addition to her fighting career, Veronika Smolkova has also gained attention outside the cage for her nude modeling. While some fighters prefer to keep their public image strictly focused on competition, Smolkova embraces both sides of her persona. She explained:

“After all, even though I’m a fighter, I’m also still a girl—a woman—and I like to show off those girly things. Even though it’s not too much, I still like to feel sexy and that kind of stuff, even alongside the sport … I am feminine, and I’m very sensitive. When I go to training, I have that sensitivity and those emotions—anger and other emotions you could call “bad” emotions, but also the ones that make you like an animal. I leave all of that at the gym and get it all out there. Then, after training, I can embrace my other emotions—my more feminine and sensitive side.”

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Veronika Smolkova’s openness about balancing athletics and femininity has echoed with fans, particularly as more female fighters challenge traditional expectations in combat sports. At Oktagon 67, on February 22, she will be facing the top-ranked Aitana Álvarez.

“The message I’d like to send is to love yourself and not be afraid to be yourself. Even show off those quirks and unique things about you. Just express yourself in the most loving way toward yourself, and I feel absolutely honored to be able to show that to the younger generation of fighters—especially female fighters coming up.”

With a crucial fight ahead and a growing profile beyond MMA, Veronika Smolkova remains focused on both her professional goals and personal expression. If she secures a victory, a title fight could be next, another step in her rising career.

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Exclusive | Rowdy Bec Rawlings Opens Up on Domestic Violence “I’ve been knocked down, but I get up every time”

‘Rowdy’ Bec Rawlings is known for her fighting, however, her most significant battles have been fought outside the arena….

‘Rowdy’ Bec Rawlings is known for her fighting, however, her most significant battles have been fought outside the arena. As a survivor of domestic violence, Rawlings has become a powerful advocate for raising awareness about abuse and empowering others to overcome adversity. Through her recent documentary ‘Fight to Live‘ the former UFC athlete tells the story of her life.

‘Rowdy’ Bec Rawlings

She began as a standout in the UFC and later transitioned to a star in BKFC. Despite her success in combat sports, Bec Rawlings faced harrowing personal struggles such as escaping an abusive marriage while raising her two sons. Rawlings’s story is now the focus of Fight to Live, a documentary directed by Tom Haramis. The film candidly explores her journey from victim to survivor and advocate.

I’ve been knocked down, but I get up every time, whether in relationships or in my fighting career. I’ve never given up, and that’s what my documentary is about. It’s absolutely amazing.

In an interview with Tim Wheaton of LowKickMMA, Bec Rawlings discusses her fighting career, documentary, and abuse:

It just shows that no matter what you’ve been through, it doesn’t have to define you. It’s about what you do with the bad things that happen in life. You have the power to make something from it—you don’t have to let it consume you. And I never did.

FightToLive DF 2B2A9990 Rowdy Bec Rawlings

The documentary not only highlights her personal struggles but also aims to educate viewers on recognizing red flags in relationships and supporting those at risk. bec Rawlings has used her platform as an athlete to address the alarming statistics surrounding domestic violence. In Australia alone, 25 women were murdered by loved ones in 2024.

The documentary does a really good job of educating people—helping viewers recognize red flags for themselves or for a friend or loved one who might be in a dangerous relationship. It shows how to help them, how to reach out, and how to recognize those signs.

Through Fight to Live and her ongoing advocacy efforts, Bec Rawlings is proving that even the toughest battles can lead to meaningful change.

FightToLive DF 2B2A0306 Rowdy Bec Rawlings 1

Exclusive | Find Your Calm in Chaos – Tai Emery’s Tools for Mental Clarity

Power Slap athlete, BKFC athlete, model, lingerie football player, and electrician, Tai Emery, shared her candid thoughts on mental…

Power Slap athlete, BKFC athlete, model, lingerie football player, and electrician, Tai Emery, shared her candid thoughts on mental health and the importance of self-awareness in managing life’s challenges. Known for her toughness and personality, Tai Emery’s reflections offer insights into balancing chaos and calm, both inside and outside the ring.

Tai Emery

Tai Emery sat down with LowKickMMA’s Tim Wheaton to reflect on her journey. Emery emphasized the significance of understanding one’s strengths and finding environments where one can thrive. Drawing from her own experiences working with live wires as an electrician she explained how high-pressure situations often reveal a person’s true character. “People find out where they’re the most calm.”

Tai Emery also highlighted the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation. She believes that identifying personal triggers and developing tools to manage them is crucial for mental well-being. Whether it’s journaling, exercising, listening to music, or spending time in nature, Emery advocates for finding personalized rituals that help maintain balance. “A happy fighter is a dangerous fighter,” she remarked, drawing parallels between mental health and peak performance.

“Sometimes when there’s a problem—whether it’s in the ring or out of the ring—you never solve the riddle in the same state you’re in. You know how you’ve lost your car keys and it’s always in the last place you look? No—it’s generally when you’re not looking that you find them. So sometimes just stepping away from something and chilling out—being in nature—can help. Like I said, there’s a small list of things people can do to stop thinking about the problem and actually solve it.”

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For Tai Emery, maintaining balance amidst a demanding schedule, training, media commitments, social media responsibilities, and more, requires meticulous organization. She credits her use of a color-coded diary for helping her stay on track.

“I think a tool for people—whether they are fighters or not—is just trying to figure out: one, their triggers; and two, how they control them. Whether it’s having some self-isolation, allowing yourself to process something, writing it down in a journal, listening to music, reading books, talking with friends, dancing, working out—find your own tools. These tools also become meditation: going for a walk, playing with your dog, being with your kids. These are all tools you can use to calm your emotions or bring yourself back to awareness.”

However, she acknowledges that what works for her might not work for everyone: “Tracking my weight or using a diary might not work for someone else… Everyone has their own tools.” Ultimately, Emery’s message is one of empowerment through self-discovery. She encourages others to embrace their unique traits and find joy in their pursuits. “When you’re happiest, people can get the most out of you, and you can get the most out of yourself.”

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“Obviously, people find out where they’re the most calm. People want to do something that they’re good at; that’s just the truth. You can do something you’re not good at, but as a job and where you fall into, you’re generally doing something you’re naturally good at or have worked hard to be good at.”

Exclusive | Johnny Garbarino Is Conor McGregor’s Favorite Fighter

BKFC’s Johnny Garbarino claims that he is Conor McGregor’s favorite fighter. Creating incredible knockouts and viral moments outside of…

BKFC’s Johnny Garbarino claims that he is Conor McGregor’s favorite fighter. Creating incredible knockouts and viral moments outside of the ring, ‘Cannoli’ explains why.

Johnny Garbarino Is Conor McGregor’s Favorite Fighter

John Garbarino, a Philadelphia-based fighter, made headlines with a remarkable debut at BKFC KnuckleMania 5 on January 25, 2025. Fighting in his hometown at the Wells Fargo Center, Garbarino delivered a stunning first-round knockout against Apostle Spencer in the final seconds of the round, thrilling a record-setting crowd of over 17,000 attendees.

“[Conor McGregor] grabbed me by the back of my head, got real close to me, looked into my eyes, and said, “The world stage—everybody in the world is watching you.” And that’s all he needed to say to me. I’m never going to forget that because it’s my time now, and I have to make the most of it.”

After his victory, Garbarino created another unforgettable moment by proposing to his long-time girlfriend in the ring. Following an emotional speech, he dropped to one knee with a ring in hand, and she accepted, drawing cheers from the crowd and going viral online. This heartfelt gesture capped off an already memorable night.

On Conor McGregor, speaking to LowKickMMA’s Danny Podolsky in an interview, Johnny Garbarino said:

“I think he loved it. He tweeted me the night of the fight, the day after, and even today he put me on his Facebook. Between the cannoli and the fight, I looked right at him after I got the win and proposed to my girl. He was like, “I don’t know which part was the best for him,” but it was pretty cool. I think I left a mark—made a big impression. Yeah, I mean, I think I’m his favorite fighter right now”

Garbarino’s week leading up to the fight also drew attention. At the weigh-in, he offered Conor McGregor a cannoli, showcasing his playful personality and connection to his Italian-American heritage. McGregor, who was ringside during the event and later praised Garbarino’s performance and proposal on social media, described it as “magical” and applauded his skill and showmanship.

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“I think a lot of these other fighters, after they get a big win, they see him as the money guy, a money grab, and they want to have a money fight. I’m not into that. I’d rather be friends with the guy. Why wouldn’t you want to do business with someone like that? He’s a very successful person, and he’s a nice guy.”

Exclusive | David Zawada Aims for Quick Finish in €1 Million Tournament at Oktagon 66

German MMA fighter David Zawada is gearing up for his highly anticipated opening bout in the Oktagon Tipsport Gamechanger…

German MMA fighter David Zawada is gearing up for his highly anticipated opening bout in the Oktagon Tipsport Gamechanger tournament, set to take place at Oktagon 66 in Düsseldorf on February 1, 2025. He is looking for a quick finish against the rising prospect Mat?j Pe?áz.

David Zawada

The experienced middleweight is known for his aggressive style and finishing ability. David Zawada has his sights set on a decisive victory against Czech opponent Mat?j Pe?áz. Speaking about the upcoming fight, Zawada expressed confidence in his preparation and hinted at a potential quick finish, either by submission or knockout.

“When it will be easy to take him down and submit, like one minute, you know, so it would be pretty nice,” Zawada said. “But I think this guy is not stupid, and he maybe has a good team.”

Zawada has been studying Pe?áz’s fighting style and acknowledges the potential challenges his opponent might bring. “I just watched his videos, and I saw some faces that I know, so I think they’re also pretty well-prepared because they know me. Yeah, I have my experience, you know,” he added.

Despite his confidence, Zawada remains cautious about the unpredictable nature of MMA. “It’s MMA, you know. You can train a lot, but training is training, and a fight is a fight. How the fight happens, you can never know,” he explained. “A lot of things depend on how you wake up, how your fight day is going through your mind, and whether you’re ready on that day.”

The Düsseldorf native is also drawing comfort from fighting close to home. With no need for extensive travel or logistical stress, Zawada feels more relaxed and focused as fight night approaches. “This time, I don’t have the stress of traveling, packing my stuff, worrying about forgetting things. So that’s pretty cool,” he said.

“After the weigh-in, I know where I can go to eat good food… no overthinking. I just have to focus on making weight, then enjoy and go through the fight in my mind.” David Zawada’s physical condition appears to be peaking at the right time as well. “For now, I think my physical condition is at a really good level,” he shared. “Yeah, I’m just cutting my weight, just a few kilos to drop, but it’s pretty easy.”

With a €1 million prize pool on the line in the Tipsport Gamechanger tournament, including €300,000 for the winner, David Zawada knows this is a major opportunity to reassert himself as one of Europe’s top fighters. Whether by submission or knockout, fans can expect an intense performance from Zawada as he looks to make a statement in front of his hometown crowd.

Exclusive | Denis Frimpong Breaks Silence on Heated Sparring Match with Paddy Pimblett: ‘I Think I Won That Whole Situation’

The MMA world has been buzzing after a fiery sparring session between rising lightweight Denis Frimpong and UFC star…

The MMA world has been buzzing after a fiery sparring session between rising lightweight Denis Frimpong and UFC star Paddy Pimblett. The unsanctioned showdown took place at Frimpong’s Manchester gym and stemmed from a social media feud but ended with both fighters shaking hands. Now, Frimpong has opened up about the encounter, shedding light on the events that led to it and his perspective on the outcome.

Denis Frimpong vs. Paddy Pimblett Sparring

Speaking to us in an exclusive interview, Frimpong explained that he was initially unaware of any animosity between himself and Paddy Pimblett. “I actually thought we were cool, to be honest. I never thought we had any beef,” he said. Frimpong attributed the tension to comments he made during a filming of Oktagon Challenge, which involved another fighter, George Staines. “Paddy obviously took some issue to that… I suppose he’s like the big brother of their gym. And even though me and George don’t have any issues anymore… Paddy obviously had some issue with that.”

The situation escalated when Pimblett challenged Frimpong to a sparring match, promising to “come up to your gym and batter you.” Frimpong responded with a video that gained traction online, setting the stage for their face-off.

Despite the heated buildup, Frimpong emphasized that the session was conducted in a controlled atmosphere with mutual respect. “We organized it, got into a controlled environment, had our fair play… Had a knock, you know, and then shook hands afterward,” he said. “And I think that’s how, as men, that’s how our problems should be sorted out.”

The sparring session itself was intense, with Paddy Pimblett ultimately securing a rear-naked choke that forced Denis Frimpong to tap out multiple times before the hold was released. However, Frimpong believes the experience was invaluable for his development as a fighter. “I think I won that whole situation because… I got to test out my level against someone of that caliber,” he said. “I got to see where the holes are… and everyone’s talking about it now, so everyone’s going to have eyes on my next fight.” Which is booked for Oktagon 68.

Did Paddy Hold The Choke Too Long?

Denis Frimpong also addressed the controversy surrounding Paddy Pimblett’s refusal to immediately release the chokehold. According to him, the terms of the sparring session were clear from the outset: “It was agreed upon in text before the fight actually started… We go until someone quits, basically.”

While acknowledging the risks involved, Frimpong said he was prepared for such intensity. “In my head, I knew that if he got a choke on, he was going to try and choke me unconscious… As far as going to sleep from a choke, I’m not arsed about it.” Despite the physical toll of the sparring match and its heated moments, Frimpong remains positive about the experience and its impact on his career. “Yeah, [Pimblett] won the actual spar,” he admitted. “But I got to get in there and have a hard spar… with a top 15 guy in my weight division in the UFC.”

For Denis Frimpong, this opportunity tested his skills and raised his profile ahead of his next fight. As for his relationship with Paddy Pimblett moving forward? The Irish fighter seems content with how things ended: “We each had our people there… Had a knock… shook hands afterward, and that’s it.” Whether this marks the end of their rivalry or just another chapter remains to be seen, but one thing is clear, Denis Frimpong is ready for whatever comes next.