Carina in sensual photo spread. Photo: Gerusa Falcão
GRACIEMAG.com called up Carina Damm, one of the four fighters to see action at the August 13 Strikeforce female GP. But the one who answered the phone was her black belt brother Rodrigo: “Hey! Carina’s working right now. Call back in 20.”
After the stipulated time had passed, we spoke to the fighter, who explained the reason behind the wait and sent a sample of what she was working on for GRACIEMAG.com readers’ approval.
“This was the work of a great photographer, Gerusa Falcão. It will be on the cover of her company’s portfolio. She wants to show how even a fighter can be a sex symbol!” explains Carina laughing.
That’s right, Gerusa. With a model like that, proving it is easy! But let’s cut straight to the chase: information on the ballyhooed female GP.
You, Miesha Tate, Hitomi Akano and Maiju Kujala will participate in the GP. When will we find out the matches to be made?
They haven’t been decided yet. They’ll do that by lottery on weigh-in day.
Carina at Bitetti Combat. Photo: Carlos Ozório
So what are you doing to prepare for three possible opponents?
We’re putting together a strategy for each of them. We’ve been watching their videos, mostly my brother and me. I’m training to fight all three; I have to be ready for them all.
What’s your breakdown on your possible opponents?
Miesha has a really strong shoot for takedown and I figure she’s one of the main opponents. I feel it would be a tough fight. But I also have enormous respect for the Japanese fighter (Akano). I think in terms of technique she will cause the most trouble, more than the others. I also noticed she has a huge gas tank, she never tires. Now I didn’t find much on Kujala, but my brother saw a video and I think that against her I’ll have to be ready to strike. She has a really strong kick.
What are your expectations for this major challenge?
I’m really happy. I believe and always believed in my career. Unfortunately, I’ve been out of the international ring for some time, but I knew I’d be back. I’m coming back strong, with a lot of desire to be champion. I hope I manage it. I’ve never been one to think I’ve won before the time comes, but I’m confident. I ask that people criticize, but don’t denigrate my image. Make constructive criticism. My work is picking up and I hope everyone is happy with the result. I’m going to grab this belt with a number of arms, from my whole family and friends.