Let’s cut to the chase – we all know who the “Nerd Rage” is.
Despite not having the chance (yet) to personally introduce myself to him in person, it didn’t take long for me to learn of Simon who he is as a fighter and his contributions in the community when I first joined. I did however get the fortune to see his Knight Fight episode be filmed a few years back when I was visiting the set as a guest. The flail battle was pretty cool to see in action (and I can happily say I had that ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to be hit by one in a recent Knights Hall Knight Fight event. Love ya Marie!)
Simon has a resume full of experience as a streel fighter, and many of them of numerous wins in Melee and Dueling categories and has represented the US as a member of the Striking Eagles since 2013.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING FOR ARMORED COMBAT?
For 28 years (since 1994).
DO YOU HAVE ANY BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE IN MARTIAL ARTS OR OTHER SPORTS?
Yes – I’ve done judo, wresting, boxing, kendo and working as a bouncer for decades.
HOW DID YOU LEARN ABOUT ARMORED COMBAT AND WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO JOIN?
I saw a GIF image showing a jump kick to the back of the head of an armored combat fighter. I posted on Facebook asking where could I do this (against the rules of SCA LARP) and my stick fighting teacher in the Society of Creative Anachronism “Duke Trelon” (Jay Altree) told me the first USA team was forming to fight in Battle of the Nations of 2012 in Poland. He was asked to go but could not attend. I decided to go and I also told my business partner at the time, Bamm-Bamm, about it. He went as well.
DO YOU REMEMBER HOW YOU FELT IN YOUR FIRST FIGHT? CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE EXPERIENCE?
The first team practice was with mostly SCA big wigs who could stick fight but not actually fight. I could easily tell and I wasn’t worried and kicked ass. I was apprehensive at Battle of the Nations because we had watched a half dozen guys leave in stretchers…but I didn’t get dressed up for nothing.
WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED WEAPON? DO YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR FAVORITE?
I am mostly skilled in two handed weapons and specialize in two handed axes.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE SOME POSITIVE ASPECTS THAT COME FROM THE SPORT?
Fitness, happiness, therapy as a domestic violence survivor, world travel, and life long friends.
WHAT IS YOUR FIGHTING STYLE – IF YOU HAVE ONE?
I take the Jeep Kin Do approach. “Whatever works” but you could say I am a “striker” and specialize in dropping people with one hit.
DO YOU THINK FIGHTING CHANGES WHO YOU ARE AS A PERSON? HOW HAS IT AFFECTED YOU PERSONALLY?
I am much happier and healthier. It has made me some good coin in tournaments, TV shows and YouTube videos. I can’t imagine doing anything else.
WHAT WOULD YOUR ADVICE BE FOR NEW PEOPLE INTERESTED IN THE SPORT?
Get fit. Don’t buy armor until you talk to experienced guys. Decide what your goals are, either competitive or beer league.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO FOR THE FUTURE OF ARMORED COMBAT SPORTS?
Enough paid gigs so the best can do a circuit as an occupation.
ANY FINAL WORDS YOU WANTED TO MENTION?
Buhurt is love. Buhurt is life.
One of the greatest things I have ever been a part of is helping to bring this sport to the USA, and I am honored to be featured in this article.
Follow Simon on his fan Facebook page Simon “Nerd Rage” Rohrich.
