its doing. I almost feel like a spectator in my own body, I just go on instincts. I am not really aware of what's going on until after the match. A match is like a fight and I just try to bring intensity to the match. I try to stay present in the moment and one step ahead of the other guy.

Adissa- Are you excited about the United Gracie Tournament?

Mikyo- I am very excited about the United Gracie tournament. I have been injured for a while so I am trying to heal and get ready. Our school is training really hard right now and it will hopefully pay off at the tourney. If everything goes as planned, this could be one of the biggest, best tournaments in America. (Editors note: Mikiyo could not compete at the Gracie open due to injury)

Adissa- How much do you weigh right now?

Mikyo- Right now I weigh 174 but I compete at 169. I fight middleweight or medio.

Adissa- Do you have any plans for NHB in the future?

Mikyo- I want to fight NHB very badly. I consider myself a martial artist and NHB the ultimate test of ones style and self. I want to test my skills against the best and see where I stand. I am doing some physicaltherapy right now and then plan to begin my NHB training. I have spoken with IFC and gladiators challenge about possible matches. King of that Cage is also a possibility. But UFC and Pride are the goals.

Adissa- Are there any books, movies or songs you use to staymotivated when training for a competition?

Mikyo- If I told you what was in my cd player at the last tournament you and everyone else would be laughing at me! The week before a fight, I rest a lot and watch lots of movies. Mostly the ones you would expect. Anything that deals with overcoming and triumphing obstacles. Book of five rings, art of war stuff like that I love too. I like to listen to music that relaxes me not that amps me too much. I don't listen to too much rageand limp bizkit. I like more hip-hop and rap. I like a beat that relaxes me, and helps me get into the zone but Sometimes I start to think about partying and getting chicks too much so that's not to good. I mostly work on mental preparation and drilling, including meditation and prayer. I use my goals, hard work, and sacrifice to motivate me. I try to believe in myself and pray I get the job done.

Adissa- Any last Words?

Mikyo- I would like to thank you, and OntheMat.com for recognizing me. I would also like to thank all my teachers and training partners, friends, family and supporters for the help they have given me because without it I would not be who I am. And thank my sponsors, Onthemat.com, the amazing Foodform Vitamins (available at www.Foodform.com.), and Gold's Gym Marin. Oh and if you want to sponsor me, don't be shy. I would also like to say that martial arts has been a blessing for me in my life, so I would like to encourage everyone to keep training and striving for greatness. If anyone needs to get in touch with me my e-mail is mikyoriggs@aol.com