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Why does MMA intrigue you?
I would like to start off by introducing myself to all of you fighters, fans, promoters, sponsors and anyone involved in the world of mixed martial arts! My name is Donna Knoll from Atlanta, Georgia. I was a taekwondo student briefly as a child, but never stuck with it because we moved around so much with the Army. It wasn't until 1993 and the first UFC that I developed an interest for Mixed Martial Arts. Like many, I was in awe watching Royce Gracie dominate Gerard Gordeau who was a much larger fighter. I lost touch for a few years when I lived overseas in Germany, but throughout the past several years, my passion for following MMA has grown. Most people I meet who are not knowledgeable about the sport are shocked that I am such a big fan of MMA; to that I say, "Don't let the feminine appearance fool you". I can get loud and obnoxious watching a fight. It's an adrenalin rush like bungee jumping or skydiving! Co-workers and others used to joke around and say that I promoted violence and bar fights or that all fighters were gay! In the beginning, I felt like I had to defend myself and the sport almost to the point of smacking someone! However, being the patient person I am and having the desire to spread the word of MMA, I invited them along to watch a live fighting event or pay per view event and more often than not, they became new fans of the sport I enjoy so much. Once people take the time to educate themselves and see the art of the sport and the exciting entertainment, they learn to appreciate it as much as all of us die hard MMA fans do. I've had my share of bumps in the road and obstacles I've had to overcome in my life and in many ways MMA gives me the strength to deal with things that I would otherwise keep bottled up inside. I have so much respect for all of the fighters and admire them for their talent, hard work and dedication to the world of MMA. I am a MOTHER and an MMA Supporter!
Some fighters and fans have turned to the sport for many different reasons. Some fighters say they have always had an interest in martial arts because of the involvement of their other family members. Others have said it's because they had some type of trauma in their life and it was their outing to make them a stronger person. Many fans stumbled on it by word of mouth or they have always had and interest in the sport. In my opinion, it's no different than growing up loving football or baseball…it's a great sport!
I would love to see everyone's feedback and comments to get your point of view and what it is about MMA that intrigues you. I look forward to future blog postings with you about General MMA, events, and interviews.
Thanks for taking the time to read, much love!
Donna Knoll
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