If there’s one person who perfectly embodies the 5.11 spirit, it’s UFC champion and martial arts icon, Michelle Waterson. Her unwavering dedication, fighting spirit, and “Always Be Ready” attitude echo the core values of our brand. She exemplifies the relentless pursuit of improvement and the ability to overcome any obstacle, both in the octagon and in life making her a true inspiration to our community.

Q: What drew you to martial arts?

A: Martial arts have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My older brother inspired me to join the local karate school and from the moment I stepped onto the mat, I was hooked on the competition and the feeling of accomplishment.

Q: How did martial arts help you through your high school years?

A: Martial arts provided me with a foundation of discipline and perseverance that helped me navigate the challenges of high school. It instilled in me the confidence and self-belief to push through self-doubt and overcome obstacles.

Q: You took a break from training after high school. What made you get back into it?

A: I went off to college and took a break from training, but I wasn’t truly happy. During a trip to Thailand, I trained at a local Muay Thai gym, and it felt like a wake-up call. I realized that martial arts were not just a passion, but my true calling.

Q: How did you transition from amateur fighting to the professional ranks?

A: After reigniting my passion in Thailand, I trained at JacksonWink MMA, which became my training ground for professional fighting. I competed in the amateur circuit for a few years before turning pro at the age of 21, and I haven’t looked back since.

Q: How did motherhood impact your fighting career?

A: During what I thought was the peak of my career, I found out I was pregnant. Thankfully, with the unwavering support of my husband and coaches, I was able to continue fighting after giving birth to my daughter, Araya. Ten months after becoming a mom, I stepped back into the octagon and came back even stronger going on to win the Invicta FC Atomweight Championship, headlining a UFC fight, and gracing the cover of ESPN’s Body Issue.

Q: You’ve mentioned facing challenges in your career. Can you elaborate on those?

A: Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered inevitable setbacks, including breaking my hand three times within a year and a half, facing a three-fight losing streak, and navigating personal challenges outside the octagon. However, these obstacles have only strengthened my resolve and made me a more resilient fighter.

Q: What drives you to keep fighting?

A: I fight for the love of the sport and the challenges it presents, which push me to become a better version of myself, both inside and outside the octagon. Martial arts have taught me valuable life lessons that I can share with my children, and that’s something I deeply cherish.

Q: What are your future aspirations?

A: I’m forever grateful for the lessons martial arts have taught me, and I’m always eager to learn more. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that the future holds as I continue my pursuit of excellence in this sport.

Q: What does “Always Be Ready” mean to you?

A: To me, “Always Be Ready” isn’t just about physical readiness in the octagon, though that’s certainly important. It’s a broader mindset that encompasses mental and emotional preparedness for whatever life throws your way. It’s about showing up, every day, with the dedication to learn, grow, and adapt, even when facing setbacks.

It means being ready to embrace opportunities, big and small. It means being ready to overcome obstacles, knowing that they’ll only make you stronger in the long run. It means being ready to learn from your mistakes and pick yourself up when you fall. And most importantly, it means being ready to share your journey and inspire others to pursue their own passions with unwavering resilience.

“Always Be Ready” is a reminder that life is a constant journey of learning and growth. It’s about showing up, giving your all, and embracing the challenges that come your way because they are what ultimately shape who you become.