FightHype.com recently caught up with boxing and kickboxing champion Lucia Rijker. Sporting an incredible record of 54-0 against female competition with 39 knockouts and holding four different world titles in kickboxing as well as the WIBF title in boxing, she's rightly been dubbed "The Most Dangerous Woman in the World" and you don't want to miss what she had to say about Gina Carano, Laila Ali, her thoughts on competing in MMA and more.
TN: How are you doing?
LR: I'm doing great. A new year with new possibilities!
TN: What are you up to?
LR: I'm closing a self-help book and a DVD deal!
TN: You're undefeated in 54 fights against females with 39 of your wins coming by way of knockout, many of which were in the first round. What's the secret to your success?
LR: My key to success is talent plus 200% dedication, discipline and focus!
TN: You were trained by the legendary Johan Vos of Vos Gym. What is it about this gym that produces so many great fighters?
LR: Hunger to be the best and the wealthiest at all cost!
TN: Your only loss to date was to a very tough male Thai-boxer, Somchai Jaidee. My question for you is, what were you thinking?!
LR: Calm down now! It was a suggestion of my trainer and I never said no to any challenge!
TN: With the popularity of female MMA in the States growing, is there any chance of us seeing you compete in MMA?
LR: I've had several offers, but they never seem to follow up on an official offer. At this stage in my career, I value and respect my talents so I need to be well compensated for my time and efforts and MMA doesn't pay enough yet!
TN: One of MMA's most popular female athletes is Gina Carano. Do you have interest in fighting her?
LR: I Love MMA. Gina is a great benefit for the sport. She is a well-spoken, attractive, articulate, intelligent woman; a true role model. With my background in jiu-jitsu, karate, boxing and kickboxing and my experience, I think I would be the perfect match for MMA, but with my knowledge of the ring sports, I would be an even better commentator.
TN: Is there any advice you can give to up and coming fighters?
LR: Never give up if you love what you do. No pain, no gain!
TN: You've said before in the past that you would only come out of retirement to fight Laila Ali. Is this still a fight you would like?
LR: Laila Ali? I'm not a beggar. I will not beg people to fight me! If her fear is stronger than her courage, there is nothing you can do.
TN: You're a patient of Dr. Peter Goldman, the doctor to many of MMA's top athletes. How has his Zone Healing method helped you so far?
LR: Zone healing is a way for me to inspire my body and mind to start healing itself. Only if you have the courage to be healthy, you will!
TN: Anything you'd like to say to your fans?
LR: Thank you for all your support. Why are you a fan of me? What do I have that inspires you? What do you have that is unique and exceptional? If you don't know, spend time finding it. Once you find it, become the best you can possibly be at it. Always respect your uniqueness. Never compare yourself with others unless it help you to bring out your fullest potential!