On an extremely positive note, McCarter is scheduled to make a return to Kiwiland next February which isn’t far away. On the cards is the possibility of a re-match with the supposedly retired Smith. In a sport where charm and looks alone will mean nothing, having them combined with the “game” is what its all about. So without any further due here we go with the exclusive interview Layla did with ROGUE on her departure from NZ.

Q. What did you think of NZ and the impression of pro Boxing in NZ?
I wasn’t in NZ long enough to get a full impression of the pro boxing scene, but just long enough to fall in love with the country and its people. The show was a class act. I was happy to meet the promoter Ken Reinsfield who treated us with respect and kindness throughout (even with Shane’s career set-back). I was warming up before my fight and didn’t see any of the other fights on the card except the main event: Cameron v. Ahunanya. Friday has been my team-mate for 8 years or so, but I know Shane and know he can move forward from this and be a champion.

Q. What’s it like fighting as a pro, especially on some of the bigger cards in Vegas?
There is no place like Las Vegas for boxing…hands-down it is the Mecca of the sport. For me it is great fighting in Las Vegas because I have the tremendous support of my friends and fans.

Q. What do you think is the best way to market pro-female fighting?
To market pro-female fighting, all parties involved MUST believe in the product 100% and that pro-female fighters can be sold on fighting primarily and not sex. Being attractive sure doesn’t hurt ticket sales (ask Oscar De La Hoya), but in the end, it’s the quality fighting brings the real business.

Q. Ever thought of rolling with some MMA? Tell us about your background in Other MA’s please?
I’ve definitely considered competing in MMA however; the pay would have to be good. The risk of injury is higher in MMA and could threaten the boxing career that is my sole income.
I started Martial Arts training when I was 8 years old. My brother Pete got me into Ed Parker’s American Kempo Karate which I studied for a total of nine solid years (4 in Kansas and 5 in Washington). Moving frequently, I studied many other disciplines in small doses and competed in many tournaments; forms and fighting. When full contact karate was in its many transitions, I fared pretty well and started competing in amateur kickboxing and shortly after, amateur boxing. I had one pro kickboxing fight and had 11 wins 1 loss as an amateur boxer before turning pro in 1998 (12 amateur fights for a girl was a lot then). People who trained me always made it clear that I had to choose: between karate and kickboxing, between kickboxing and boxing. Now I’ve had 45 pro boxing fights and 4 world titles but still dream of continuing my martial arts training in the future. Martial arts in all forms has spiritually saved and enriched my life.

Q. So about this reality show in MMA- will we see you on it very soon?
I’ll keep you posted. My manager Luis Tapia is always looking out for my best interests, so I trust that he will make the right decision.

Q. How does pro fighting affect your family life and other stuff outside the ring?
Outside the ring, I’m still in the ring…if that makes sense. When I eat, sleep, or do anything, it revolves around my training schedule and fights. Boxing isn’t what I do anymore…it is my whole identity but that’s o.k. for now. My cats still love me.

Q. Will we see you soon in NZ, Pro boxing or even maybe MMA?
It looks like I may be returning to NZ in February for a boxing title fight and hope to become a regular attraction in the NZ boxing scene.

Layla walks the talk

Thoroughbreds: Friday and Layla of the Luis Tapia Stable

Sublime: McCarter’s boxing clinic

Charming: Best mates Layla and Dan after fight