LUBBOCK, TX, November 11, 2011 – After a lead up that included several opponent changes for main event fighter and former WWE superstar Bobby Lashley (6-1), Shark Fights 21 is set for tonight with Lashley now taking on Minnesota native Karl Knothe (17-5). That bout now tops a final card that also includes other fighter like KOTC vet Tony “The Gun” Bonello taking on UFC vet Dave Roberts, West TX prospect Cody Pfister, the undefeated Daniel “Jacare” Almeida, and more.
Check out the main card below and then enjoy our interview with Lubbock Model and Shark Fights ring girl Sarah Willis!
Also don’t forget that in honor of Veterans Day, all active duty and retired military personnel will receive free admission for this event with valid military I.D.
Shark Fights 21 – Main Card
• Bobby Lashley (6-1) vs Karl Knothe (17-5)
• Tony Bonello (15-1-1) vs Dave Roberts (4-7)
• Cody Pfister (5-3) vs. Isais Martinez (6-3)
• Willie Parks (3-1) vs Anselmo Martinez (7-5)
• Gabe Vasquez (4-4) vs Zach Haney (3-5)
Shark Fights 21 – Preliminary Card
• Daniel Almeida (6-0) vs John King (2-2)
• Cody East (0-0) vs Adenilson Clementino (1-0)
• Matt Hobar (3-0) vs Donnie Frye (3-10)
• Jeremiah Castillo (3-13) vs Zavier Garcia (0-1)
• Brian Joseph (1-0) vs Marcus Baldivia (0-1)
Interview with Shark Fights Ring Girl Sarah Willis
Thanks for taking the time to talk to us Sarah! Before we talk MMA and about your experience as a ring girl, tell our readers a little bit about yourself.
I’m 23 years old. I was born in Long Beach, Cali (LBC!) and raised in Wahiawa, Hawaii before I moved here to West Texas. I got here because of the air force! Now I’m about to start school again to get my business degree but what I really wanted to be as a kid was a veterinarian and a big time surfer! Other than that, I have 2 dogs – a Boston Terrier named Banewhich which means “long-awaited son” and a chocolate Doberman Pinscher named Dobie. They are my life!
How long has you been a ring girl for Shark Fights? What’s it been like? Any memorable moments so far?
I have done four events so far for Shark Fights – Lubbock, Odessa, Dallas, and then Lubbock again. I have enjoyed all of them! I love getting the crowd amped and taking pictures with all the MMA fans. I guess I was nervous at first but then I realized this is something I really love doing and I love the sport. My most memorable moment so far was in Odessa when Joseph Sandoval jumped in mid-air and gave the other guy a knee to the face and knocked him out! I think that was at Shark Fights 15. Good times!
What’s your favorite part of the fights/events?
I don’t really have a favorite part, I just enjoy watching the outcome of the fights.
Have you always been a fan of MMA, even before you were a ring girl?
Yes!. I watched the fights from to time before but after being a ring girl I definitely pay more attention now. I’ll find myself sitting at home eating oreos while watching UFC. <laughs> I like to watch “The California Kid” Urijah Faber and BJ Penn. Those guys are my favorite.
What’s the best thing about living in Lubbock?
The best thing about Lubbock is that everyone is out getting involved in school so it’s very easy to stay focused. That and taking pictures with LubbockModels and Eric Karr! The only thing I’d change is that I would love to bring Hawaii weather to West Texas!
What other hobbies do you have in your spare time?
My main hobby is usually hitting the gym. I am a tiny girl but lifting weights is super relaxing for me and I find that it helps relieve stress. Other than that, if I have time I am shooting with Eric or trying to get my new home in order. I just moved to a new three-bedroom house so I have a lot of decorating to do!
Nice. Well we’ll look forward to seeing you tonight at Shark Fights 21. Do you have any last words before the fights?
Mahalo for taking the time out with me! See you at the fights!
Photography by Eric Karr, LubbockModels.com
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