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TSC Interviews: Former UFC fighter Houston Alexander

Submitted by Fred Richani on Fri, 09/10/2010 - 01:34

Houston Alexander is one cool dude. He's a good family man, hard worker, and a strong advocate for hometown Omaha, Nebraska's hip-hop scene.

Oh, he's also an MMA fighter that has fought all across the country, most notably for the UFC (2-4). After a disappointing UFC stint, Alexander looks to bounce back at this Saturday's Shark Fights 13 Pay-Per-View against a tough opponent in another familiar name, Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou.

Alexander was kind enough to speak to us just days before his big fight as we talk MMA, hip-hop, and life with Omaha's finest. 

 

Fast facts about Houston Alexander:

  • Professional MMA record of 10-6, 1 NC
  • Competed in the UFC (2007-2009)
  • Notable victories over Keith Jardine, Alessio Sakara, among others
  • Serves as local radio DJ outside of MMA

TSC: What are your thoughts on UFC 118?

Alexander: (Laughs) James Toney versus Randy Couture went exactly how I thought. I knew Toney didn't have a good sprawl. I knew Couture was gonna take him down and he did. You can't mess with Randy. That's a world-class wrestler. 

TSC: Did you expect to see UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar dominate the previously-untouchable B.J. Penn? 

Alexander: It's the changing of the guard in all of the divisions. You can't be the same fighter you were 10 years ago, including myself. You have to evolve like all the other kids getting into the sport. These kids start out at such a young age now, like 15-16 years old doing MMA. You really have to adjust. A lot of guys that have been around for awhile can have a hard time adjusting. 

TSC: We interviewed Bas Rutten, who will be commentating Shark Fights 13, including your fight with Sokoudjou. He stated that Sept. 11 will be a night MMA veterans and young guns have something to prove. Do you agree?

Alexander: I think MMA fighters always have a lot to prove anytime they compete, especially after a big loss. I think all guys across the board have something to prove. 

TSC: I understand you rep Omaha, Neb. I heard you D.J. and rap?

Alexander: (Laughs) Rap? Brother, I think you're mistaken. I don't rap.

TSC: We heard you spit a few bars according to some nameless MMA fighters...

Alexander: (Laughs) Oh no...I'm  B-Boy. graffiti artist, and D.J. In that order! 

TSC: How did you get involved in hip-hop?

Alexander: I come from Generation X. I'm part of the culture. I've been there from when hip-hop first began to what's it's transitioned to now. I've done some break dancing, graffiti artistry, and deejaying. 

TSC: It seems like you've got your next career path set. Sadly, not all fighters do. Why do you think guys that are past their prime keep fighting without having a backup plan to support the next chapter of their lives?

Alexander: I don't think it's a lack of a backup plan. I think a lot of these guys have done previous things, but it's very obvious what I do. I do MMA. I love MMA, but I have other loves also, such as music. I don't think they didn't have a backup plan. I just think they don't have the love for something else [other than MMA] like I do. 

TSC: What does Shark Fights bring to the table?