Taylor Jo Lamonska: “MMA made me believe I can do anything!”

Before Taylor Jo Lamonska tries to improve to 3-0 as an amateur at 3 River Throwdown on Saturday night in Minnesota, the up-and-coming strawweight prospect sat down with FightBookMMA.

How did you find MMA in the first place?

A friend of mine was training. I saw it on her Facebook

Do you remember your first day of training? What’s your most vivid memory?

I remember not even being scared I just wanted it so bad. I told my coach I would do whatever it took to get it and he threw me in with the wolves right away. There were a lot of panic attacks and I gave up most days, but I always came back.

What’s kept you in the sport?

I knew people thought I didn’t have what it takes.

Is there anything you don’t like about MMA?

People don’t really understand it. They see a lot of blood and broken bones. Black and blue eyes and it’s time consuming. I cannot explain how powerful I feel in this sport. It’s humbled me. It’s hard, it’s so hard and it sucks getting your nose broken or getting kicked so many times your leg gives out. Doing this has made me believe I can over come anything

How has your training camp been going?

I’ve been in shape my whole camp. This last sparring session really brought together what I have been working for. I’ve been ready and I’m waiting patiently

How excited are you to get back in the cage?

I’m honestly never excited to be in a cage with someone who wants to hurt me … but these times I am reminded I can face my fears. I’m more excited to show people how far I have come since August 2017. I’m more excited to show myself how far I have come; mentally and physically.

What should fans expect with your return?

They should expect that belt in my hands. I understand my power a lot more. I believe in myself a lot more. I’m in a lot better shape than my last fight and a lot quicker.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank while you have this opportunity?

I have to thank my coaches and teammates for putting up with me and my frustrations. I also want to thank Team Iridium for managing me, that means a lot especially when I’m only an amateur fighter with 2 fights under my belt. My parents and family for coming and supporting me even though I know how much it scares them. I absolutely have to thank Lydia Trewin. I have a guardian angel watching over me during all the frustration and anger and fear. I wouldn’t be in this position today if it wasn’t for her.

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Roberto Villa

Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.