Mark Choinski

When and why did you start training for fighting? I’ve wanted to be a professional fighter for as long as I can remember. I started wrestling as a teenager, and once my wrestling career ended, I went straight into MMA training under Duke Roufus at Roufusport in Milwaukee. It was a natural transition. I knew this was what I was meant to do. 

What professional titles have you held? I am a 2x APFC lightweight champion. 

Any accomplishments in amateur combat sports? 3x NCAA All American 

Any belts/ranks in grappling disciplines? Blue belt in jiu-jitsu  

What has been your toughest fight to date and why? I don’t think I’ve ever been in a fight that wasn’t tough. Every opponent brings a different challenge, and each fight has pushed me to grow in some way. Even going back to my wrestling days, every match has taught me something physically, mentally, or emotionally. That’s what makes this sport so powerful. 

Who is your favorite fighter and why? GSP has always been my favorite fighter. He was one of the first guys I watched growing up, and I was drawn to his style and how composed he stayed under pressure. He’s a true martial artist. Well-rounded, disciplined, and respectful, and he represents everything great about this sport. I see a lot of myself in that approach. 

Did you go to college and if so what degree did you earn? I attended the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, but I didn’t graduate due to the impact of COVID. When everything shut down, I took it as a sign to fully commit to MMA. I made the decision to leave school and dedicate myself completely to pursuing a professional fighting career 

What was your job before you started fighting? I had many odd jobs, mostly in different fields of construction. 

Origin of nickname: I got my nickname back in high school on the wrestling mats. I had a relentless, aggressive style, and people started calling me 'Shark.' 

Personal Life / Background: I’m not married and don’t have kids. Right now, my entire focus is on my career — I’ve dedicated my life to mixed martial arts. Everything I do, day in and day out, revolves around becoming the best fighter I can be. 

Who are 3 people you'd love to meet or work with? I’ve never really been starstruck or into celebrity culture, but if I had to pick a few people to meet, it would be OGs of the fight game — legends like GSP, Jon Jones, and Chuck Liddell. I’d love the chance to pick their brains and learn from their experience at the highest level. 

What are your hobbies, activities or other interests when not training for a fight? At this point in my life, all my hobbies are in mixed martial arts… eat, sleep, train.

I have a giant shark tattooed on my chest that represents my fighting spirit. It’s a symbol of how I approach competition: aggressive, relentless, and always moving forward.