ONE ON ONE FT. GAUGE LATTIMORE
[The camera fades in, revealing a spacious, well-lit studio with a sleek, contemporary design. The backdrop showcases the logos of various organizations and a large LED screen displaying highlights of some of the most memorable fights. Isaac Cohen, the charismatic MMA reporter, is seen seated in a plush leather chair, wearing a tailored suit. He adjusts his microphone and looks directly into the camera with a determined gaze.]
ISAAC COHEN: “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another edition of “One on One”! I’m your host, Isaac Cohen, and today we have a treat in store for you. Joining me in the studio is none other than the heavyweight champion of the world, the unstoppable force known as Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore! Gauge, thank you for joining me today.”
[The camera pans to reveal Gauge Lattimore entering the studio. Lattimore exudes a quiet confidence as he makes his way towards the interview area. He is dressed in a sharp suit, his championship belt proudly displayed over his broad shoulder. The two exchange a firm handshake, and Gauge takes a seat in the chair across from Isaac.]
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Thank you, Isaac. It’s always a pleasure to be here. I’ve been looking forward to catching up with you.”
ISAAC COHEN: “Gauge, your rise to the top of the heavyweight division has been nothing short of spectacular. It’s reminiscent of your run at cruiserweight. The last time we spoke, your goal was to become not one, not two, but a three division champion and you accomplished that feat, beating Owen Barnes pretty handedly. Beyond the accolades, I’m curious to know what drives you, what fuels your passion to continue this journey?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Isaac, when I step into the cage, it’s not just about winning titles, money, or fame. It’s about pushing my limits, challenging myself, and proving that anything is possible with dedication and hard work. This sport has become my canvas, and with every fight, I strive to create a masterpiece that will inspire others to pursue their own dreams, whatever they may be. Plus, with the new division comes a whole new field of contenders. There’s a lot of guys I want to share the octagon with.”
ISAAC COHEN: “Your journey hasn’t been without its hurdles, albeit few and far between. From early setbacks to grueling training regimens, you’ve faced adversity head-on. Can you tell us about a moment in your career that truly tested your resilience and how you overcame it?”
[Gauge’s expression turns serious, his gaze shifting towards the many displays of pay-per-view posters on the wall.]
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Absolutely, Isaac. It was right out the gate. When I made my pro debut in Triumph, I lost my first two fights by submission to guys that no one talks about today. At that time, I really questioned my abilities. My boxing only took me so far, I was so green with all of the other aspects of the game, but I refused to let fear paralyze me. My longtime coach Bruce D’Angelo always told me that everything I’ve ever wanted was on the other side of fear. When Triumph closed its doors, I came back to the states and signed with Everest. Got a couple good wins under my belt and took off from there when I went back to Japan for G2. Winning it all was a moment that taught me the power of self-belief and reinforced the notion that we’re capable of achieving greatness when we refuse to back down.”
ISAAC COHEN: “It’s remarkable how such moments can shape us and help us realize our true potential. So let’s fast track to the present day and talk about your upcoming fight. How has your training camp been different this time compared to when you first fought Owen Barnes? How do you plan to maintain your focus and avoid complacency, considering you’ve already defeated your opponent once?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Well, if you look at my history of rematches, that should be enough reason to stay focused. I did win the rematch with Fisk, but I lost the rematch with Roscoe and the rematch with Santos. I put so much emphasis on honing my technique everyday, ensuring that every strike, every movement is precise and calculated. It’s equal parts power and agility. Strength without agility can make you predictable, and agility without power can limit your impact. It’s a delicate balance, one that requires constant refinement and an insatiable hunger for improvement. That’s why I train tirelessly, pushing my limits in all areas, so that when I step into that cage, I can adapt to any situation and come out on top.”
ISAAC COHEN: “Well said, Gauge. It’s evident that your dedication and commitment to your craft have propelled you to the top of the heavyweight division and the sport as a whole. How important is it for you to finish the fight convincingly and solidify your status as the dominant heavyweight champion? Can you describe the pressure and expectations you feel as the reigning champion going into this rematch?”
[Gauge leans back in his chair, contemplating the question, his eyes shifting from his championship belt to Isaac.]
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “I understand the significance of leaving no doubts in the minds of the fans, the critics, and my opponents. A convincing win not only solidifies my status as champion but also sends a strong message to anyone who challenges me. The pressure and expectations that come with being the champion are immense. There’s always a target on my back, and everyone is gunning for me, but I thrive under that pressure. I’ve trained my entire career to handle such situations. The high expectations drive me to push my limits. It’s a responsibility I embrace and use as fuel to stay at the top.”
ISAAC COHEN: “How do you plan to deal with the hostile environment and the overwhelming support Owen Barnes will receive from the crowd? Do you believe that fighting in his hometown will give him any sort of psychological advantage? How do you plan to counteract that?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Fighting in Owen’s hometown does present certain challenges. It’s gonna be a rowdy crowd and he’ll feed off of that. You’ve basically got three choices: you can allow it to swallow you and consume your train of thought, you put the blinders on and ignore it, or you embrace the role as the villain. I’ve faced hostile crowds before, and I’ve learned to use that energy to my advantage. I don’t mind being the bad guy for one night. Ultimately, when those cage doors close, the outside noise is gone and it’s just me and my opponent inside the octagon.”
ISAAC COHEN: “With your contract nearing its end, have you had any discussions with your management team regarding contract negotiations and the impact this rematch could have on your future in the organization? How do you stay focused on the fight at hand without getting distracted by the uncertainty surrounding your contract situation?”
[Gauge’s demeanor lightens up as he leans in to the desk and cracks a smile.]
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Two words… Levi Dillinger. That guy is the best at what he does. I trust him to handle the financials while I concentrate on my fights. Look at all of the fighters he represents. Every one of those guys are paid top dollar at their position.”
ISAAC COHEN: “One final question here before we wrap things up. Can you discuss any potential factors or considerations that will influence your decision-making process regarding your next career move once your current contract expires?”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “When it comes to my next career move, there are several factors that will come into play. First and foremost, I want to ensure that I continue to face top-level competition. At this stage, I want the big money fights, whether I have this belt or not. I honestly don’t know how much longer I plan on competing. I’ve grown fond of coaching our fighters at Gold Blooded. Me and Deebo are the old heads and we got a great group of prospects that are ready to get turned loose. Moony is doing his thing at 155, and Deebo’s baby boy Jalen is ready to rock in Everest. There’s a handful of others that we’re working on getting signed, it’s just a matter of time. I want to invest as much as I can to the gym and set these kids up with the best there is to offer. I’ve heard those guys in Ryujin are making bank, so maybe I’ll do one final run there before it’s all said and done.”
[The camera captures the passion in Gauge’s eyes, reflecting his unwavering devotion.]
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “Ultimately, my decision will be based on a combination of those factors, along with the advice and guidance of my coaches and manager. I want to make a decision that not only benefits my career but also allows me to leave a lasting impact on the sport.”
ISAAC COHEN: “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you, Gauge. It’s been a pleasure to sit and chat with you before your big fight. Best of luck this weekend and thanks again for taking the time to be here.”
GAUGE LATTIMORE: “I appreciate you giving us fighters this kind of platform, Isaac. It’s always a pleasure to sit and chop it up with you.”
[As the camera fades out, Gauge Lattimore stands up from the desk. Isaac Cohen extends a hand and with a warm smile on his face, he expresses his appreciation once more for the valuable time Gauge has dedicated to the interview.]
