By: Jonathan M. King The Clinch Report
Photos By: John Walsh The Clinch Report
Matthew Spencer is not your typical MMA fighter. He works and trains full time, helps his children with their homework, finds time to be a husband to his loving wife, and actively participates in his church community. Then on his off days, he sucks weight so he can punch people in the face. An odd scenario to say the least, so we decided to find out what makes this ‘Man Of God’ tick!
11 Questions with 185 lbs MMA prospect Matthew ‘M.O.G’ Spencer
1.) When and how did you become involved with the sport of MMA?
Spencer: I got into MMA in 2005 Coming home after a late night! The tv was on and it was the first Ultimate fighter finale and I was amazed at the fight and from that point on I was hooked!
2.) Who do you consider to be your closest mentor inside the sport? In life?
Spencer: Joe Schilling!! We train at the same gym! We have the same striking coach! And he is someone that motivates me not by word but by his actions! We are both fighter trying to provide for our families and now I’m trying to follow his lead!
3.) Where is Matthew Spencer in 6 years from now? 2 years?
Spencer: In 6 years I see my self at the top of the sport! In 2 years I see myself making a big splash in Bellator or the UFC.
4.) As a fighter how have would you measure your skill sets growth since your last fight?
Spencer:I look to become a better fighter in every way between fights! That is why I’m always in the gym. I am constantly trying to improve! I am always trying to master my craft.
5.) what areas do you feel you need to improve on most, as a fighter?
Spencer: Striking accuracy and take down defense!
6.) your a guy who wears many hats. Fighter, Father, Husband, Coach, Mentor, student… Etc, which hat best defines you as a person?
Spencer: I would say student!! Because I am always learning to be better in every aspect of my life! They day you stop learning should be the day u die.
7.) Walk us through a typical day in the life of Matthew Spencer!
Spencer: Typical days start by thanking God for another day. Getting the kids up, dressed, fed and off to school. Then wishing the wife a great day. Off to HQ for a personal training client. Then to the yard for striking with Manny Martinez. Then back to pick the kids up from school and then help them do their home work! Then back to HQ for Strength & Conditioning. Finally finish the night training with Eddie Bravo and my head coach Rob Rodriguez.
8.) Where did you get your nickname from?
Spencer: From my Manager Manley Smith. After I gave my life to Christ. He showed me a coin he would carry with him in battle when he was a United States Marine. It said ‘Man of God’. MOG!
9.) Now that you are heading in to your second fight for Lights Out Promotions and Bash Boxing, tell us what it’s like to fight for these guys?
Spencer: Pure electricity! George and Steve put on on of the best shows I have ever seen!! The place is always packed and the crowd is screaming! The atmosphere is almost indescribable. It’s amazing to be fighting for George and Steve.
10.) Every successful fighter has a strong support system keeping them in form. Who do you credit for keeping you on point as a fighter?
Spencer: As always first my lord and savior Jesus Christ that is my strength! Then my wife and children. My family and my friends. Then my mangers Evrati Avrahami and Manley Smith for believing in me. My coaches Rob Rodriguez, Manny Martinez, Eddie Bravo for getting me ready. The Yard Muay Thai, HQ & 10th planet gyms for the love and support! And all of my fans that are behind me!! Also a huge thanks to my sponsors Team NutriShop in Monterrey Park and Elite Medical Solutions (EMS).
11.) Finally what can the fans expect in your fight with Justin Vazquez?
Spencer: You can expect a lot of action! I fight hard and I fight to finish. This fight will not go to the judges. From the opening bell I’m gonna be all over him, and I’m not going to stop until the referee pulls me off of him. Then afterwards as always, we can pray together!
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