BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, TX, July 24, 2012 – Up next in our interview series for this Friday’s Cage Combat 10 event scheduled for the Humble Civic Center is this conversation with 20 year old Carver Bennett.
Training alongside teammates like Bubba Bush and David McClung at BVMMA in Bryan-College Station, Carver made his debut this past March against a very-tough opponent in Jose Llanas, a current title contender also fighting this Friday.
Although he did not come up with the win in his debut, this young fighter (20 year old) opened a lot of eyes with his potential. He’ll look to do more when he steps into the cage for the second time against Fabian Galvez later this week in North Houston.
Interview – Carver Bennett (BVMMA)
We appreciate the fight week interview Carver. How are you feeling heading into your second fight at Cage Combat 10?
Hi Mike, it’s a pleasure to do the interview. I am feeling really well heading into this fight. I’m excited to compete, and am really looking forward to it. And I don’t have any injuries so that’s always a plus to come out of fight camp in one piece.
You fought a tough guy in Jose Llanas in your debut this past March. What did you learn from that fight?
It was a great experience for me. I learned a lot and took a lot away from it. I didn’t really know what to expect since it was a totally new experience. So when I got in the cage, I just went ahead and gave it my all. Watching film has been important for me because I have been able to pick apart the things I did right and the things I did wrong, and I have learned a lot of valuable skills on all sorts of different techniques.
How long have you been training altogether now?
Altogether, I have been training for about a year and a half. I had always been active in football and track in high school, and that’s where my love for competition sprung from. Unfortunately, my high school didn’t have a wrestling team, so I wasn’t able to compete in that area. However, my dad wrestled in college so I was able to get some basics from him.
You also work with some outstanding wrestlers over at BVMMA. Who have you looked up to and what have you gained by training there?
The guys that have really invested in shaping my view would be David McClung, Bubba Bush, and Jayson Pilosi. They have all been a big part in helping me not only in MMA, but also in other aspects of life. Also, my dad has played a big part in teaching me dedication, determination, and what it means to be a real man also.
What’s your typical day like training for a fight at BVMMA?
A typical training day during fight camp is extremely regimented. I usually wake up, get an early morning workout in, and then use the day to recover before practice. Then at night I will get in to practice for a couple hours, go over skills and techniques, and then conditioning. I have been very focused on my diet, exercise, and sleep during this fight camp so that I will be ready for battle when the bell rings.
What other aspects of “MMA life” do you enjoy besides the training?
So far it would be a compilation of all the little things that I get to do with my BVMMA family. Whether it is training, Bible Study, going to the movies, hanging out, or watching fights, I always have a blast with them. Those guys are my brothers and I have been truly blessed to have a second family.
You sound like you have a good head on your shoulders. Have there been any major life experiences or obstacles you’ve had to overcome that have made you who you are?
I can’t say that I have had to face anything major in my life so far. In the heat of the moment I think we all can make the mistake of thinking our problems and obstacles are a really big deal. If we just take a second to cool down a get a level head I think we all would realize we are all pretty blessed. In the past I have set plans and made decisions for my life and my future, and well, they don’t always happen the way I expect them to. So instead of thinking about these as obstacles, I find it better to just realize that my plans aren’t always the best plans. I’ve been trying to realize God has a better plan than I can ever construct on my own.
Tell us about your upcoming fight at Cage Combat 10. Who are you fighting and what do you know about them?
I am fighting Fabian Galvez from ACS, and that’s all I know.
What do you hope to gain from this fight, besides the win of course?
I love getting to compete and want to learn from each fight. It is a continuous process to be the best fighter I can be. The drive to be my best is a huge motivation.
What would you say fans can expect out of this fight?
I visualize this fight being action packed and fast paced. There will be a clear victor when the match is over. Special thanks to Garcia Promotions for giving me the fight.
What’s next for you after this?
Lord willing, I would like to keep training and hopefully fight again soon. I know there are a lot of upcoming Jiu-Jitsu tournaments coming up that I would love to fit into my schedule.
Any last words before Friday night?
I would like to thank my family and friends for the support, and thank my coaches and training partners for getting me ready. Thank you for the interview.