continued
UF : Does Horodecki and Soszynski’s respective contract have clauses concerning their total exclusivity to the IFL and it yes, would they be legally authorized to fulfill their commitment with TKO?
ST : When Krzysztof and Chris IFL season is over they will have a chance to fulfill there contracts with TKO. But the TKO contract is only exclusive in Canada, so it holds no power over them in the USA. They love the Quebec fans and look forward to returning to the TKO. It’s that easy.
UF : As reported by Keith Mills in an interview for ADCC News a few months ago - Soszynski said about his situation with the IFL and TKO : “I don’t know what the deal is as far as what is next or if I am fighting in TKO again or not…”. It seemed he knew it would be difficult, or unsure, for him to fight in TKO again. At that moment, did you know there might be a problem with the IFL for theses fighters to fight again in TKO?
ST : As for Krzysztof's contract and all of our contracts. we always plan to fulfill them. But there is a timing, when to do this and when not too. Just because Patry is having a show on June 1st doesn't mean we all have to stop what we're doing and be at his show. I have nothing to prove with this, check the history of our involvement in his show, many times I would supply him with up to 5 major fighters for each show and he treats me like shit. Krzysztof's response was what it was because he is a fighter and his only concern is training and winning. This is how I train my fighters.
UF : Were you aware about the law suits opposing TKO to the IFL before yesterday’s events regarding the interview Stephane Patry gave us? How did you react?
ST : There is no lawsuit. I am sure that I would know and no one has contacted me otherwise. Just threats, and bully tactics. My reaction is of disconcern, all I worry about is preparing my fighters for their upcoming fights and making them champions.
UF : Will all this story affect your relations with TKO organization? It appears that Mark and Sam might be scheduled for the September show and that TKO is trying to sign Chris for June 1st… What’ll happen with Hominick, Stout and Clements @ TKO?
ST : My relationship with TKO and Stephane Patry I think is obvious. I don't need this type of negativity in my life or the life of my fighters. I do however feel indebted to the Quebec and Canadian fans and will always continue to be part of their MMA community and fight in Montreal. I'm just gonna have to be very careful of my business there. My fighters will still fight in TKO and entertain the fans that got them where they are.
UF : As a manager, what is your position concerning exclusivity contracts?
ST : I think that all contracts have their place. The only problem is there are good promoters and bad promoters.
UF : Considering the UFC’s position about the IFL, could there be an obstacle for Horodecki and Soszynsky to get their chances in other major international organization like UFC and Pride?
ST : The bottom line is that these two fighters are great performers that are really good at what they do. They will compete in the organizations that best suit them and their futures. Everyday is a new day and as far as we are concerned the IFL is a great organization and has done nothing but helped and supported their careers positively.
UF : You didn’t compete since you fight Joel Leblanc and David Loiseau in 2001. People are talking that you are on your way to be back into competition. What motivated you to take this decision after 6 years?
ST : The decision to fight again came from my competitiveness as a coach. I am still young and stay in great shape as well as spar and train with everyone that I train. My MMA career was very misguided and I have grown so much as a person and athlete since 6 years ago. First of all, I knew nothing about grappling and trained myself for those fights as well as had no one looking out for my career. Things are different now, very different.
UF : Did you reach an agreement with a particular organization yet? Is the IFL a possibility and if so, would you stay the head coach of the Anacondas team?
ST : I will always be the head coach of the LA Anaconda's and if the chance for me to fight comes it will be when the season has completed so that I can focus on myself and not forget about my responsibilities to my other fighters and the Team itself.
UF : Regarding your comeback, are you expecting to train with Bas, who is describe by the IFL as your mentor and friend?
ST : When I return, I will have many great fighters assisting me, but of course yes, Bas Rutten will be my main trainer.
UF : Who would you want to fight first or would be a great matchup for you?
ST : Not sure who first, but I would be fighting at 185lbs.
UF : Do you have any plans for you career at the moment? What are your short and long term objectives?
ST : My plans are too continue what I have been doing and become known as one of the greatest MMA coaches of all time.
UF : We sincerely wish you all the best Shawn and good luck for your comeback into competition!
ST : Thank you so much for your continued support, I hope that I have answered everything the fans have been wondering. Be sure to check out my web site at
www.teamtompkins.com and please keep supporting the sport in a positive way!