Tyler Schaefer is no stranger to combat sports. With a résumé that includes MMA, boxing, and combat jiu-jitsu, the Hawaiian-born striker has embraced every opportunity to test herself in competition. Now, she’s stepping onto a brand-new stage—Power Slap 14 in New Orleans, where she’ll take on Emily Whitmire in a bantamweight clash.
“I’m excited. A little nervous, but mostly excited. This day has finally come.”
The Queen of Side Quests
Tyler isn’t just a fighter—she’s a thrill-seeker. From back-to-back fights in a boxing league to new ventures like combat jiu-jitsu, she’s made 2024 all about embracing challenge and reinvention.
“I call myself the Queen of Side Quests. I wanted to try a little bit of everything this year. Power Slap was one of those things.”
It wasn’t an easy decision. After attending the Power Slap athlete camp in April, she took time to reflect. But the professionalism, camaraderie, and structure of the league left a lasting impression—and ultimately convinced her to make her debut.
Taking Slap Training Seriously
What began as curiosity turned into serious preparation. Tyler’s now immersed in slap-specific training: resistance bands, striking mechanics, core and leg work, and mental visualization.
“Who knew your forearms and elbows could get that sore from slap training? It’s all about perfecting the form and being mentally dialed in.”
She’s also leaned on advice from Power Slap veterans—including her brother Pono, who recently faced Damien Dibbell.
“He told me to be entertaining, to put on a performance. I told myself I won’t let the humble side hold me back. It’s the biggest stage—I’m going to bring the confidence and grit.”
A Respectful Rivalry
Tyler is set to face Emily Whitmire, who already has one Power Slap match under her belt. While she watched footage of Emily’s debut, Tyler has remained focused on sharpening her own game.
“I’m not training for her—I’m training for me. I respect her, but I’m going first, and I plan to make it so clean she doesn’t get a chance to hit back.”
With experience in multiple weight classes across combat sports, Tyler will compete at 135 lbs in New Orleans. But long-term, she has her sights set on dropping to her natural home at 125 lbs.
Living the Moment in New Orleans
Between training sessions, Tyler plans to soak up the local culture during fight week.
“Everyone keeps talking about the food—I’m excited to try it all. And I’ve got my team here since D-Rod is also fighting, so I won’t be alone.”
But make no mistake—she didn’t come to party. She came to win.
Message to Emily Whitmire
“I hope you’re ready to take this slap. I’m going first, and if all goes according to plan, you’re not getting your turn.”
Power Slap 14 goes down Friday, July 19, live from New Orleans and streaming exclusively on Rumble. Catch Tyler Schaefer’s debut as she brings her “queen of side quests” energy to the Power Slap stage.