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Salina Rowland - professional bantamweight mixed martial artist making her comeback after a seven-year break from MMA. Coming off an impressive first-round knockout at Sparta 113, Salina is preparing to headline Sparta 114 this November. Coached and cornered by King of the Streets fighter Jason “The Dragon” Lee and mixed martial artist Zach Hare, Salina is determined to make her mark in professional MMA. With a background competing at a high level in multiple sports, Salina has her sights set on reaching the highest levels of mixed martial arts. Outside the cage, Salina is a devoted mother who finds peace and therapy through horseback riding. Passionate about her faith, sobriety, and sharing her testimony, she hopes to inspire others through her journey of perseverance, redemption, and personal growth. As Salina continues her comeback, her mission extends beyond fighting. She’s focused on being a mother, competing at the highest level, and helping others along the way.
Support Salina and follow her journey: @salinarowland
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In this expansive episode of The Mountain Side podcast, host Bobby Marshall engages with the formidable MMA fighter, Salina Rowland. Known for her recent first-round knockout at Sparta 113, Salina is making waves in the MMA circuit following a seven-year hiatus. This episode provides an intimate look into her life: from her return to fighting, her struggles with addiction, to her perspective on sports and her dedication to self-improvement.
The Fighter’s Return: Salina Rowland joins The Mountain Side with an inspirational story of resilience and ambition. After a notable debut with a knockout win, she shines a light on what it really takes to return to MMA after a lengthy break. She candidly shares how she transitioned from bodybuilding back into fighting, overcoming doubts about weight and performance that many athletes face.
Fighting and Finesse: Host and Salina discuss the grueling nature of combat sports, emphasizing the challenges fighters encounter, such as weight cuts and ever-changing fight cards. Salina reveals a tenacity that has seen her power through 13 opponent changes leading up to a fight. Through all this, she underlines the importance of support from her team and influential figures like Jason Lee, who has been pivotal in her corner.
Navigating Personal Challenges: Diving deeper, Salina opens about the personal hurdles she has faced outside the octagon. Her hiatus from MMA was marked by struggles with addiction, a journey that resonates with many. She shares the life-changing impact of her daughter, Emberly, who motivated her to seek a stable and sober life. Through Salina’s story, we explore themes of redemption, resilience, and the power of personal transformation.
The Role of Faith and Support: Salina speaks on the importance of faith and community in overcoming her battles. She highlights how renewing her spiritual journey has anchored her amidst life’s challenges. Community support, from family to coaches, has been instrumental in her continued growth both personally and professionally.
On Sobriety and Its Challenges: Salina’s story is an empowering testimony to overcoming addiction without formal rehabilitation, aided by the unwavering support of loved ones and a structured path. Her commitment to sobriety is a testament to the possibilities of recovery, offering inspiration to those who may find themselves in similar situations.
Upcoming Fights and Future Goals: Looking ahead, Salina is set to fight in Sparta SE 114 at the Blue FC Arena in Loveland, Colorado, a significant event for her burgeoning career. She credits Sparta for providing a platform that has reinvigorated her fighting spirit, aiming to step into larger arenas like the UFC.
Salina Rowland’s candid conversation with The Mountain Side reveals more than just a fighter’s spirit; it tells a story of personal battles, triumphs, and the relentless pursuit of a better version of oneself. Her journey from the depths of addiction to the heights of professional fighting offers a narrative filled with hope, resilience, and dedication. As Salina prepares for her next battle, her story remains a beacon of inspiration for those fighting their own battles, both in and out of the octagon. Join Salina at her upcoming fight and witness the embodiment of strength and resilience.