Joanne ‘JoJo’ Calderwood, now known as Joanne Wood following her marriage to her husband John Wood. Joanne is a beloved Scottish fighter who is always up for a challenge. She is a professional mixed martial artist and former Muay Thai champion who competes in the Women's Flyweight division of the UFC. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with JoJo and ask a few questions!
How long have you been doing mixed martial arts (MMA)?
I started Muay Thai when I was 13 but didn’t start MMA until I was 21, so I’ve been doing MMA for 15 years and training martial arts for 23 years.
What made you want to do what you are doing? What’s your story?
I actually went along to a class with my brother who was looking to start Muay Thai. I clicked with it straight away and pretty much wanted to go any chance I had. Once I got my driving license and I wasn’t working I was at the gym all day. I was that crazy person in the gym on my own working out all day.
What has been your favorite fight in UFC so far?
My favorite fight in the UFC was the first time UFC came to Scotland. The atmosphere was outstanding and I still get goosebumps from that day.
Why ICON Meals? What makes us different?
They really suit my lifestyle. I’m never in the house. I leave early and I don’t get back until late. The last thing I want to do is more work when I go home. I love how easy ICON Meals are but they are still healthy and delicious.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Enjoy the rollercoaster!
Who is your biggest inspiration? Why?
My sister has always been a big inspiration. She is the most caring and patient person I have ever met. She struggles like us all but you will never know it.
How do you balance your UFC career and life demands?
I’m a hard worker and dedicated to doing my best everyday. I do get overwhelmed sometimes but I have good people around me and l feel like that support system helps to support me with my daily demands.
What do you want your legacy to be? How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered for always having exciting fights and also don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
What is your current focus? Any plans for the future?
My current focus has been to be active and fighting as much as I can. My plans for the future is to have kids and help grow our team and our gym.
What are your favorite ICON Meals? Or favorite thing about ICON Meals?
The pulled chicken bowl with cilantro rice and the blueberry pancakes are my favorite meals. The Hawaiian bbq seasoning is my favorite seasoning.
Stay connected with JoJo on:
- Instagram at @badmofo_jojo
- Instagram at @bigwoodmma702
- Facebook at @badmofojojo
- Twitter at @DRkneevil
Want to be featured on ICON Meals? Submit your stories to info@iconmeals.com or send us a DM on IG or Facebook!