Interview: MMA model Erin Jade
Erin Jade, MMA model extraordinaire, is a Toronto native and one of the most prolific models in the mixed martial arts world. Jade answered some questions for theMMAdigest.com
What work have you done modeling for the MMA world?
I’ve done events for Amp’d mobile and Toyo tires; photoshoots for the Fight Network, interviews with Toe-to-Toe radio, The Fan 590, Hardcore Sports Radio/The Score and Tagg Radio; I’ve also been featured in ‘Fighters Only Magazine’ as the babe of the month for May 2008, as well as been featured on several MMA websites…I have a few magazine features, interviews and events coming up this summer as well.
How did you get involved with MMA?
I got involved with MMA because of my boyfriend, yes, I’m taken. (laughs) He trains in Muay Thai and I always go to his fights. He’d also always take me with him when he’d go to watch UFC fights at the bar. From being so exposed to the sport, I just got into from there. I usually model for import shows, but then I decided that since I love MMA, I might as well take my love for modeling and combine it with my interest in the sport.What has been the most exciting event you’ve been to?UFC 83, hands down. It was amazing. I don’t really know what else to say to that.
What are the MMA fans like in Toronto?
The MMA industry is growing bigger and bigger each day. It seems as if more and more people are getting into the sport. Unfortunately, MMA hasn’t been legalized in
Of all the fighters that I’ve met, the one that impressed me the most was probably Brandon Vera. He was so friendly, humble and down to earth. He also had a good sense of humour. I liked that.What have you learned from being a part of the sport?
From modeling for the MMA scene, I’ve really had the opportunity to see how much hard work and dedication goes into the sport. Back then, when I never really knew much about MMA, I thought it was just about a bunch of guys that like fighting. After I started to follow the sport, and learn more about it, I realized that it was so much more than just that. I’ve grown to really respect the people involved because now I know, how much hard work goes into it.
Do you train any martial arts?
Not at the moment. My boyfriend teaches me some Muay Thai but that’s about it for now. I’d like to start though.
What are your thoughts on the women’s MMA scene?
I like it. I like how it shows that women are capable of being involved in sports that people would assume are only for men. It goes against the stereotype that men are tougher than women.
Who is a fighter you are dying to get a chance to meet?
Rampage. I’ve been in contact with him and he seems like a really funny guy. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to meet him in person yet.
Being of Filipino background, is Brandon Vera a fighter that you admire?
Yes. Like I mentioned earlier, he was the fighter that impressed me the most. Not only because he’s Filipino, but because he’s a really good fighter who is really down to earth. When I met him, he knew I was Filipino, so he was cracking some Filipino jokes here and there. He’s great.
What’s your favorite fight of all time?
I’d have to say GSP vs. Matt Serra in UFC 83. I guess it’s because I was there to watch it live, and it was when GSP brought the belt back to Canada.
Which person in the MMA world should be working as a model?
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