411Mania Interview: Wade Drake
Posted by Scott Kuczkowski on 10.02.2008
He wrestled in high school. He joined the Army. He went to Iraq and helped drive Saddam out of Kuwait. He returned to the US and started his own construction company. Now he fights for a living. His name is Wade Drake.
He wrestled in high school. He joined the Army. He went to Iraq and helped drive Saddam out of Kuwait. He returned to the US and started his own construction company. Now he fights for a living. His name is Wade Drake.
You were a decorated wrestler in high school. Do you think wrestlers by their very nature have an easier time making the transition to MMA?
Definitely, it really gives you a head start on the groundwork aspect of MMA.
What are some of the jobs you've held? What do you do now?
Other than my US Army military experience, I've owned my own construction company since right out of high school. I also do security jobs on the side.
What was your MOS in the Army? Where were you stationed and what places did you visit TDY?
Transportation specialist and expert marksman. (I visited) Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq during Desert Storm.
You'll be making your pro debut against Cody Donovan. What do you know about him and how do you expect the fight to unfold?
I know he is strong in Jiu-jitsu, and likes to take the fight to the ground. I'm going in there prepared for anything, and I'm coming to win.
Tell us something about the UWC and this upcoming event on October 11.
My first exposure to the UWC was as a spectator in April. I could not believe the level of professionalism and how great the fight card was. Each match was exciting and very well put together.
Describe your typical day. Describe your training.
Wake up early, get right to work, see my kids, then it's off to the gym for 3-4 hours every night. My training is an even mix of all styles, patterns, and influences in MMA. We work on anything from strength and flexibility to submissions and striking.
Are there any fighters you idolize or patterned your fighting style after?
I like to take strengths from many different fighters and combine them to make my own style.
Many fighters strive to sign with one of the major promotions (UFC, EXC, Affliction). Would you say you have such aspirations?
I am confident and comfortable to compete at the highest level this sport can offer. In the near future the UWC will be mentioned among those names as the elite in the industry.
Tell us about Team Ferocity. How many fighters do they train?
Team Ferocity employs a different mentality than many other schools. We only have a handful of fighters at a time but those fighters receive a large amount of personal attention.
Do you have any sponsors you would like to acknowledge or training partners you'd like to mention?
Currently still searching for sponsors, but I would like to thank my life long friend and manager Mark Dyer without whom this would not have been possible.
Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to us. Good luck on October 11th.
Visit the UWC Website to see a list of upcoming shows, view fighter's bios, and purchase tickets.
