(Nothing says professionalism like hauling a big wooden cross around.)

When I read this press release announcing that former steroid-user and general MMA punchline Kimo Leopoldo was applying to be Executive Officer of the California State Athletic Commission, I assumed that someone was jerking my chain, as the kids say.  But this application letter would have me believe that he is totally cereal:

Please accept this letter as the submission of my written qualifications for the application of the position of Executive Officer for the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC). It is with great pleasure and humility I offer my qualifications as an advanced equivalent for the position of Executive Officer for all of the reasons detailed below. … As a 14 year veteran in the professional kickboxing and MMA industry, I believe I hold a
heightened degree of expertise in understanding and working with fighters, matchmakers, managers, promoters, various professional associations, members of the press, venue operators, attorneys, the general public, and the commission and other governmental regulators on an international and national level.

[…]

And since it is going to eventually come up in the process, I will address my use of Steroids in this application letter. Yes, I used Steroids in my past to help support my efforts as a professional athlete/fighter. However, my experiences whether negative or positive have given me greater insight into the crutches of life’s downfalls and my decisions today come from experiences. I will say that my choices and decision making ability are educated decisions and made from a position of informed consent, as opposed to blind guidance . I can be honest about my past and can look a fighter in the eye and tell him/her with great confidence that use of illicit substances is not worth the future health issues it creates nor is it worth the risk they are taking against their license.

Way to turn your past steroid use into an asset rather than a liability, Kimo.  Looks like someone has been reading those MSN articles about how to ace a job interview.

The press release announcing Kimo’s application for the job describes this as “Keeping in tune with President Obama’s call for much needed change,” and a quote from Kimo likens him to another prominent political figure as well:

“Arnold Swartzenagger became Governor of California with little or no experience managing in the political arena. Like Arnold, I’ve never claimed to be a saint. However, unlike Arnold, I already have extensive experience for the position I have applied for. I think Governor Swartzenagger is doing a good job and I hope to follow in his path.”

Wow, didn’t see the need to actually look up how Gov. Schwarzenegger’s name is spelled, huh?  Interesting choice. 

Assuming he has one, I wouldn’t advise Kimo to quit his other job just yet.  Something tells me this one isn’t quite in the bag.