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Author: Mindy Cooper
Most know Keith Jardine “The Dean of Mean” as the tough, light heavy-weight fighter that we first saw on The Ultimate Fighter 2. He has made many UFC appearances in the past few years, and shows no signs of slowing down. He will make his post-UFC appearance against veteran Trevor Prangley at Shark Fights 13 in Amarillo, Texas on September 11. MMA Dominate had the pleasure of interviewing Jardine about his career and personal life
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How did you get into MMA and when did you start?
I played football at a small college about two hours from Albuquerque. When I was done with football I wasn't ready to stop being an athlete. Also, since I first saw the UFC in the early 90's, I've always dreamed of being a fighter. So I heard about Greg Jackson in Albuquerque, and after meeting him in 2000, I moved to Albuquerque to train.
Where do you fight out of?
I fight out of Jacksons MMA in Albuquerque.
After a knockout, how does it affect you personally in training for the next fight, mentally and physically?
I stay positive.
You have unorthodox fighting style, which we love. Do you ever look at changing it or just continually enhance it?
I tried to clean it up for a while, but I only became more simple and predictable. Now, I embrace it. |
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What is your favorite part of this sport and what is your favorite part about being considered a top fighter?
Everyone should be so lucky to do what they love. Even better, though, is to be regarded as one of the best at it.
Who do you want to get matched up with more than anyone else?
Eventually, I want to fight the guy with the UFC title.
When you are not training for a fight, where could we find you spending your time?
I've been trying to learn to surf and I found the perfect spot. There is a little town called Cerritos north of Cabo in Mexico. It’s like a bit of real Mexico away from all the spring breakers. There I found the Cerritos Surf Colony. It's very laid back and surprisingly inexpensive. I'll be there again in Sept. for sure.
How long do you plan on fighting?
As long as I'm having fun and I'm continuing to improve. With the slump that I've been in, it's pretty hard to believe that I'm getting better. It's true, though. I'm a much better fighter now than a year ago. Like in any sport, sometimes you get a little worse before you get better. |
