Mark Munoz: Protecting a Fighter, a Lover, a Man of God

I am a bodyguard. Part time.  Not many know that.  With this stint, my cover was blown.

I will show you my stitches and X rays soon.

Aside from being an investor, an aspiring comic, writing, emceeing and a being a less profitable male exotic dancer.  This is one of my "sidelines".  I also do some things that should never be mentioned.

Recently, I took a job as being personal security to Fil-Am MMA fighter Mark Munoz.

Our code was 2M"" for the VIP.  I admit I don't follow MMA but I do respect Martial artist.  They have  
DESIRE, DIRECTION, DISCIPLINE, DEDICATION (http://markmunozmma.com/)  among other things.  This is what Team Munoz philosophy sums up that makes me respect those that engage in such an extremely violent sport even more.

2M was strong, determined and one BIG guy.  If he he is a bull, I feel like being a donkey in size.  However, this behemoth of a man had something else that struck everyone he met here.  He has an ever bigger heart.  

Let me tell you why.  For such a violent sport practitioner, 2M was always smiling, always willing to sign autographs, pose for pics and was never a problem to secure in any way. His entourage had his sister Reena, his lovely 13 year old daughter and his manager friend Gio.

In between trips I would only hear positive things from him.  2M was open minded and never judged people, situations or things that a citizen of the free world sees in a a third world a.k.a., a poor country.   Now the heat and humidiity, that was usual even for locals to complain about.  

I say "I am not afraid of you". He says, "So am I".

In four days, I learned more about them.  They were simple folk, of humble roots, educated, well mannered.  They had their heads on their shoulders and feet firmly on the ground.  They were polite, very professional and cooperative. You can see that they were raised right.  Upon touchdown 2M went straight to the gym, hit the bag, did 100 pound dumbell curls (left hand) and went on to his appointments punctually. What a work ethic. 

What also impressed me was that 2M aside from being gracious was a man of God.  He was soft spoken and had a sincere desire to connect with his roots.  He understands Pilipino better than usual, wore an office Barong with shorts.  2M was also determined to learn our native language.  He eats balut.  Actually, 2M would eat isaw, Betamax and all the funky Pinoy street food.  too bad, his bud Gio just quit balut.  He suffered "'balut addiction".  2M really loves Filipino food.  From kare Kare to Sisig and all in between.  To a Filipino that says it all.  This guy had heart, compassion and focus.  None of that overbearing attitude that Fil-Ams sterotypes display. None.  2M is one of us.

2M also did the Harlem Shake on TV and in his public work out at the mall.  In all our sorties, 2M had a smile that lit up the place like Magic Johnson, the charisma of Muhammad Ali without the trash talk and the ferocity of a true warrior in the gym.  As a bodyguard, I feared doing the Harlem Shake with him....and be caught on TV.  I have not practiced my moves yet.

Wrecking Machine vs. The Caveman Exhibition match.  At the buffet.

2M was conscious with his awkward Philippine accent.  I reassured him that our countrymen appreciate such effort and welcome it.  It is a sign that he is truly one of us.  

In his main event, before his Harlem Shake, 2M told the crowd "Mahal kayong lahat" when he should have said "Mahal KO kayong lahat".  He actually said to the crowd "You are expensive" instead of "I love you all".  Hilarious.  The crowd loved him even more.

The smiles that were reciprocated by fans were a million fold. An artist friend even presented a portrait for free that 2M gladly hand carried home.  Even our driver was sincere when he gave 2M a simple souvenir-  a patch of the Philippine flag.  Wow. Even the driver gave 2M a gift. Wow.

Though tiring, it was a pleasure to work with the road management, forward security personnel and the sponsors.  More importantly, it was an honor to meet 2M, his family and friend and it was great overall experience to meet the man and not only the fighter.  I am glad I was invited to do this gig.

I am a part time bodyguard.  With all the coverage, more know that now.  For this man, I would take a bullet, twice on Sundays.  Not primarily because he is my VIP but because he has a bigger mission to complete in life. God is with him.  

Sir, it was my honor and privilege to serve you.   I owe you an "ïspesyal" Halo Halo.

It was truly a pleasurable assignment.  You will win and go far in your journey of life for God is with you.  

Mabuhay kayo!