The Heart of a Fighter

Astrid: What is your greatest accomplishment?
Elaina: My biggest accomplishment to date is most likely my first place finish at the 2003 World Wushu Games in Macau, China because I was the first American to win gold at that event. It is still a very big accomplishment for any San Shou fighter in the world today.

Astrid: What is your goal?
Elaina: I have many goals, but I would very much like to fight MMA on PPV soon.

Photo courtesy of Elaina Maxwell
USH Fight Squad

Astrid Do you prefer fighting with guys or ladies?
Elaina: I fight women, even though I train with men everyday. However, I would never engage in a paid fight with a male competitor. There's nothing to gain. Overall, I prefer to train with experienced professionals, so that I can better my game.

Astrid: Do you think there is a difference in how woman fight in comparison to men?
Elaina: No.

Astrid: What do you recommend to girls and women who are interested in kickboxing?
Elaine: Stay focused on your goals, and stay true to yourself.

Astrid: Have you ever had to use your kickboxing skills outside the dojo?
Elaina: No, if you are a true martial artist, you will avoid it at all cost.

Astrid: Great answer! What is your favorite thing aside from kickboxing?
Elaina: I like to attend/watch fight events, hang with friends, travel, train, lift weights, listen to music, help my clients reach their personal fitness goals, teach martial arts, network, meet new people, experience life and what it has to offer.

Astrid: Do you think women have equal chances to make it as professional fighters as men?
Elaina:Yes, there are some obstacles, but overall, I really think they will.

Astrid How many sponsors do you have and how did you find them?
Elaina: My manager finds sponsors for me, but I am always on the look out for new sponsors as well. I then pass the info onto my manager. I have about three big sponsors - SCORE Clinic, KNOXX Gear & USH! Gear.

Astrid: Have you ever gotten seriously injured at a fight?
Elaina: No. It depends on your definition of serious though.