UWF Tournament of Warriors Interview – Victor Hernandez (West Texas MMA / Rhino BJJ)

MIDLAND, TX, April 30, 2012 – Up next for the UWF Tournament of Warriors we talk to West Texas lightweight Victor Hernandez, a longtime veteran of the sport that’s been competing in the Texas Mixed Martial Arts Scene since its infancy way back in the early 2000’s,

Initially an alternate for the Tournament of Warriors, Victor recently got the call to step into the main draw and face hometown favorite Hector Munoz in the first round of the series this Friday night in Corpus Christi’s American Bank Center.

Looking to draw on a decade of fighting experience, he’ll be gunning to deliver the performance of a lifetime to advance towards his goal of being called a champion.

UWF Tournament of Warriors Interview – Victor Hernandez (West Texas MMA / Rhino BJJ)

Victor, tell us a little about yourself and your history as a fighter.

I’ve been fighting for almost ten years. I got into to a lot of trouble as a kid and my family got me into martial arts and from there I was hooked. I started fighting when I was 17. I’m 29 now. I love this sport. I’ve never been good at team sports and really I just suck at most of them, but in MMA you push yourself and the cage door shuts it’s all on you – can’t beat that feeling.

How would you describe your journey as a fighter so far?

Well my career has been a long and bumpy road. I’ve had my ups and downs but I have a great team with West Texas MMA and Rhino MMA. Training here got away from the things that were pulling me down so I couldn’t be happier. I’ve got a lot of great fights that I’m proud of but I think the best has yet to come. I’m just happy to compete in events like this great show (UWF) against great competition.

How would you describe life when you’re not training? What has MMA done for your life?

When I’m not training or getting ready for a fight I’m a fat kid at heart. If I’m not training I’m playing call of duty or working in the oil fields. I’m pretty much a gym rat and have no other responsibilities that would tie me down.

I’ve meet some great people in my life through MMA and it’s been a positive influence on me. I meet my friends through this spot and it even feels like a family to me with some others as well. Having people put work into you just so you can succeed makes you want that for everyone else around me. I try to help anyone I can and show them that anyone that works for something can succeed. So I put that mentality in training with the team and life.

What are your thoughts on participating in the UWF Tournament of Warriors?

It’s a great opportunity. It’s not every day a tournament comes around and the prize is just amazing – to be the champ in your weight division what more can you ask for. I was an alternate for this so I’m thankful the promoter kept me in mind. I’m excited to be a part of it.

Now I know you started as an alternate before getting the call that you are in for the first round. How’s training been to get ready for this Friday?

It’s been great. I couldn’t be happier. I’ve put all I can into it with the time I had so I can’t ask for any more from myself. I got a great team and set of coaches so I get pushed all around. And I’d like to thank Jarret Jones and KC and from West Texas MMMA for helping push for this and also Brad Barnes from Rhino who’s helped push me to the next level to be a better fighter and Juston Campos for being there to push me. He’s a great friend and teammate.

What do you think about your first round opponent, Hector Munoz?

I believe he’s 10-3 a very tough opponent. He has a strong ground game so I know I’m in for a battle. I will have to push my will on to him. I’m pushing the fight all the way. I want this fight to be one of the best reasons for everyone to remember this show.

What would it mean to you to win not only this fight but the whole thing?

I wouldn’t know how to put that into words man. It would be a dream come true, I can say that much. To beat top competition and win the belt would be amazing to say the least.

Do you have any last words before Friday?

I would like to thank one of my best friends Shawn. He helped me get a new start on life and without him this would not be possible. Also thanks to the team at West Texas MMA and Rhino BJJ and also my good friends Juston, Ali and Chris. You guys have made all this possible for me and I’m glad to have you all with me. And big thanks to my family that’s coming and my two dads that can’t be there, thanks for your love and support. And thank you for taking the time to interview me.

UWF Tournament of Warriors – Opening Round Brackets

UWFMMA – Lightweight Tournament

Gilbert Jimenez (5-4-1) vs. Scott Cleve (8-2)
Flavio Alvaro (14-5) vs. Chris Quitiquit (4-1)
Rey Trujillo (9-6) vs. Christopher Pecero (4-3)
Victor Hernandez (8-13) vs. Hector Munoz (10-4)

UWFMMA – Welterweight Tournament

Larry Hopkins (3-10) vs. John Malbrough (3-2)
Mitchell Whitesel (19-20) vs. Chuck Parmalee (33-13)
Shamar Bailey (13-6) vs. Lucas Pimenta (14-7)
Justin Gutherie (14-4) vs. Jonathon Knutson (9-4)