1: When did you start training as an MMA fighter?

My career started around 2014

2: How long have you been training with Tom Blackledge?

Not long after i started training, around 2014.

3: What has been you most memorable fight to date?

My most memorable fight to date would be the first time I fought, not even because it was a good fight or anything like that it was more the whole experience and because it was something I'd never done before. The waiting around and watching other lads fight before you, I remember I think the fight before mine one of the fightersw was ko'd and the medic had to go in with the oxygen, I just remember thinking what the f*ck am I doing here? But then I saw all my family and friemds in the crowd and Tom had a word with me, I was sweet. But yeah I'll never forget that feeling.

4: What's a day in the life of Mark Ballard like?

A day in the life of me, well I've got a 4 month old boy so I do try and spend as much time as possible with him but apart from that i just work and train as often as I can.

5: What are your aspirations for your future in MMA?

I just want to keep fighting to be honest, I've no real dream of making big money from it or anything like that I just enjoy fighting and training so as long as I can keep doing that... I'll be happy.

6: Who inspires you in the world of MMA and why?

Without a doubt it's got to be Tom Blackledge. Before I trained with Tom I was clueless about MMA, I couldn't even throw a punch properly but with the time and effort he puts in with everyone down at the gym you pick it all up in no time, what he doesn't know about MMA isn't worth knowing.