By Monta Wiley
Since the introduction of the bantamweight division in the UFC, fans have witnessed some of the most exciting, fast paced action from the most talented fighters in the world. Apart of this wave of rising talents is San Francisco native, Chris Cariaso. Beginning a professional career in 2006 and compiling an overall record of 12-3, Cariaso has competed in various organizations such as Strikeforce and WEC before making his arrival in the UFC. In addition to his remarkable career thus far, he is also the proud owner his own gym “Fight and Fitness” where he takes on the strenuous task of being a business owner while training for fights.
Fight Hub TV recently spoke with Chris Cariaso about his training, his venture in the company, and upcoming fight at UFC 144.
FHTV: Now in San Francisco you are the proud owner of your own gym. What would you say is the biggest advantage for you having your own gym when it comes to training for fights?
Chris: The best thing about owning a gym is that you are always there. At “Fight and Fitness” we have a great pool of talent to train with. I have built a gym that can take me to the next level.
FHTV: Are there any disadvantages?
Chris: We are always in the gym (laughs) I would say the biggest disadvantage is the stress of owning a gym or a business. Sometimes it is hard to focus because you have somebody asking about a membership or something.
FHTV: What are some of the outside resources you use to help you’re prepare for fights?
Chris: For my last fight at UFC 138, I did my fight camp at the Tristar Gym in Montreal, Canada. This was an awesome experience. Now since I am fighting a striker, I am training with a Muay Thai coach from my gym in San Francisco, Nuengsiam Samphusri. I am also training with BJJ black belt Alex Crispim at Crispim BJJ. I actually moved to Tucson, AZ in August last year. So I have been able to train with UFC featherweight George Roop and Bellator bantamweight Ed West. I am definitely trying to take advantage of all my resources.
FHTV: Switching gears – you fought in many organizations since your pro debut in 2006; how would you compare your experience competing in past organizations to your current venture in the UFC?
Chris: They are hands down the best organization I ever fought for. I have had nothing but a positive experience with them. I love the UFC.
FHTV: How would you say you overall experience has been thus far in the UFC?
Chris: It has been tremendous. I feel like the first couple fights I had nerves. So my fights were a little stale but I feel like I worked it out and I am going to have a breakout year.
FHTV: Heading into your fight at UFC 143 against Mizugaki, would you say is your biggest asset overall your opponent?
Chris: My biggest asset is my striking. I feel like my ground game is underrated and that could very well be the ace in my pocket.
FHTV: In your mind, how does Chris Cariaso separate himself from the other contenders in your weight class?
Chris: I believe I am one of the best in the division. My stand up game is very unique and effective. I am also very well rounded in my wrestling and BJJ. I feel like anywhere the fight goes I can get the advantage. People think that I am small and they can overpower me, but by the end of the first round I am able to initiate my game.
FHTV: Finally, for those fans that don’t know who you are, what should fan expect to see from you that night?
Chris: You can expect to see a stand up battle. You are going to some great Muay Thai and BJJ. This is going to be a fun fight for me and a fun fight to watch.
FHTV: Any shout outs before we wrap up this interview?
Chris: First I would like to thank my wife Jen for being so supportive and staying home to watch our two boys – I Love You. I would like to thank my coaches, Nuengsiam Samphusri and Tim Chau at Fight and Fitness, John Pena and Power and Physique, Alex Crispim at Crispim BJJ and George Roop and Ed West at Apex MMA. I would like to thank my sponsors: Warrior Mist, Venum fight gear, Headrush, Fight House Management and Lexani Wheels.
