MMA History Podcast

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Ep 307 Jesse Taylor BEFORE the UFC 

Jesse Taylor dominated The Ultimate Fighter house, crushed everyone in sight, and was one win away from a UFC contract...
Then one wild night changed everything.
In this raw two-part episode, Jesse "JT Money" Taylor pulls no punches: early Team Quest chaos, underground San Diego stories, TUF glory and
heartbreak, worldwide redemption wars, and some insane behind-the-scenes bombs you've never heard.
Pure MMA history gold from a true 50-fight veteran.
 
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Ep 306 Andy Main TUF to the King of Pancrase

Andy Main is currently a stand out coach at Pure Martial Arts in Rockaway NJ. 

Andy rose through ranks of the regional MMA scene at an incredibly early age… we go in depth with our analyzation  of his career. 

From competing on the Ultimate Fighter tv series to winning the King of Pancrase belt, this is a great listen 

Special Thank You to our friend Brian McLaughlin for helping with the research and landing Andy Main for us...

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Ep 305 War Machine Jon Koppenhaver Career & Controversy

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War Machine Jon Koppenhaver interview took place from his living unit at Ely Prison. 

The video / audio is NOT in sync due to the prison security settings NOT allowing voice recording for video visitations. 

War Machine Jon Koppenhaver is a controversial figure whose career started with Ken Shamrock & the Lions Den Gym and eventually moved to Las Vegas to train with some of the bes...

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Ep 304 Jim Miller BEFORE the UFC w/ Brian McLaughlin 

Jim Miller is on the precipice of becoming the first ever member of the 50 Fights in the UFC. 

Jim Milers journey to the UFC is largely undocumented and with the help of his long time friend and trainer Brian McLaughlin we explore his path within the independent grind. 

Special Thank You to friend of the show Brian McLaughlin for helping out this together. 

Ep 304 Jim Miller BEFORE the UFC 

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Ep 303 Rafiel Torre RND Table 2 

Legendary Reporter Jeff Sherwood, Documentary film maker Ed Doty and Referee Larry Landless weigh in on Rafiel Torre. 

The panel was out together to get a look at Rafiel Torre and his appearance from the side of the media. 

Rafiel Torre the person, the competitor and the reporter is an onion with many many layers….

We hope to do RoundTable discussions once a month for an additional drop, please let up know who you would like to hear from 

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Ep 302 Ron Waterman Career Deep Dive 

Ron Waterman stepped out of the classroom as a teacher and made his way into the cage to fight some of the world’s toughest men. 

Ron takes us through his journey that includes legendary manager Phyllis Lee, dealings with Math maker John Perretti and wrestling in the WWE

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Ep 301 Rafiel Torre RoundTable 

Gerald Strebendt, Chris Brennan & Eddy Millis joined us to discuss their fallen friend Rafiel Torre 

Stebendt, Brennan & Millis recall their time with Rafiel Torre along with their current day feelings for him. 

The episode is filled with explosive truths, damning lies and fun stories involving Rafiel Torre. 

The RoundTable format is going to reoccur once a month, please tell
Us who you would like to see on it 

#rafieltorre #joerogan #eddiebravo 

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Ep 300 Rafiel Torre Corcoran Prison

Rafiel Torre is a notorious figure from the “Dark Ages” of the sport; a revered journalist, an alleged Black Belt and a powerfully connected insider to some of the sports biggest names. 

Rafiel Torre was arrested in 2003 and sentenced to life in prison in 2005 

He has been taken to task publicly by Joe Rogan, Eddie Bravo and Eddy Millis 

At his trial Gerald Strebendt, Chris Brennan and Joe Rogan testified against him 

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Ep 299 Jorge Rivera Career Deep Dive 

Jorge Rivera is a legend of the Atlantic Northeast MMA scene 

His career started with the legendary Jason Delucia and continues through one of the sports most respected trainers Keith Rockel. 

Throughout his career Jorge Rivera has faced some of the world’s toughest fighters; Tim Sylvia, Rich Franklin and Anderson Silva are just a few of the names. 

Rivera bout with Lee Murray and the reputation that Murray carried are talked about extensively in this episode 

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Ep 298 Brad Imes Career Deep Dive 

Brad Imes has a story that very few can even imagine. Within 15 months of stepping into his first MMA gym, Imes found himself in the finals of The Ultimate Fighter reality show. 
Brad Imes recalls his time sparring with Tim Sylvia and Ben Rothwell at the Miletich Fighting Systems. 
Brad Imes the man tied with the most Gogoplata finishes in MMA gave us an incredible interview. 

Ep 298 Brad Imes Career Deep Dive

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Ep 297 Brian McLaughlin Deep Dive 

Brian McLaughlin is one of the sports unsung heroes; most widely known as Jim Miller’s BJJ coach, Brian takes us through some incredible highs when competing against names such as Wilson Reis and Ryan Hall.  

We also hit a few controversial topics like Gene Simco, Dillon Danis and the often times “hard attitudes” of the Atlantic Northeast. 

It’s a great listen with a legend of the sport 

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Ep 296 Jeremy Horn Early 2000’s 

Jeremy Horn joins us again to discuss a part of his career that saw him do battle with a who’s who of the worlds best fighters. 
Imagine a 24 month period of fighting Antonio Nogueira, Yoshihisa Yamamoto, Kiyosho Tamura, Ricardo Arona 2x, Eugene Jackson, Randy Couture & Akira Shoji… that is what we discuss in this episode. 
Jeremy Horn also gives his opinion on some of the lasting conflicts within the Miletich Fighting Systems

Ep 296 Jeremy Horn Fighting in the early 2000’s

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Ep 295 Josh Neer BEFORE the UFC 

Josh Neer burst onto the professional scene boasting a record that had just under 100 amateur fights. 

Neer’s MMA journey had him training in Canada with Joe Doerkson as well as many years at the Miletich Fighting Systems 

Chris Lytle joins us on this fantastic listen documenting the Indy grind of the Midwest 

Ep 295 Josh Neer BEFORE the UFC 

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Ep 294 Brock Larson BEFORE the UFC 

50 Fight Club member Brock Larson is a stand out fighter from the tough Midwest grind. 
Larson started his career as a training partner to Sean Sherk and advanced himself to being a top 5 ranked fighter. 
Dave Menne, Brock Lesnar & Brad Kohler are all talked about with some killer stories. 

Ep 294 Brock Larson BEFORE the UFC 
 
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Ep 293 Ant Evans 2008 UFC Media Relations 

The year 2008 was a wild year for the UFC; it featured 3 of the largest grossing PPV’s in company history and some incredible main events. 

Ant Evans returns to the show to discuss what took place in 2008 and share never heard from before stories from an incredible era. 

Ep 293 Ant Evans 2008 UFC Media Relations

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Ep 292 Shark Tank with Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez 

Shark Tank owner Eddy Millis and Jay Martinez are two influential members of the early NHB movement in California  

Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez share their stories from an era that is referred to as the golden era of Mixed Martial Arts 

Ep 292 Shark Tank w/ Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez 

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2:02 beginnings in jiu jitsu 
5:30 early NHB fights 
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Ep 291 Mac Danzig UFC Years 

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1:32 interview start 
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6:27 jiu jitsu for the current generation 
8:54 backroom bonus from the UFC 
12:02 Mac Danzig vs Josh Neer 
15:16 suffering 3 straight losses in the UFC
18:26 opportunities from Joe Silva 
21:12 firing Monte Cox as a manager 
23:17 moving to Los Angeles 
26:31 Hoelzer Reich clothing controversy 
37:28 coached by Gil Martinez and Gray Maynard
40:46 Jay Hieron and Myke Pile 
45:32 Mac Danzig vs Matt Wiman
53:36...

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Ep 290 Kazja Kage Kombat & Conspiracy 

When it comes to pioneers of the early No Holds Barred days, the name Kazja is associated with both progress and controversy. 

Kazja gave us a look at what it was like to be on the front lines fighting the athletic commissions tooth and nail on every decision and how he was able to subvert their system. 

Some of the sports biggest names attended and participated in his events and in this interview we remember what is considered the sports “Golden Era” 
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Ep 289 Cecil Peoples w/ Herb Dean Deep Dive

Cecil Peoples joins us to discuss the developmental days of mixed martial arts and its transition into modern day fighting. 

We delve into stories about Frank Dux, Zane Frazier and the reputation of Gene LeBell

Herb Dean sat in on this special episode with a true pioneer of the sport Cecil Peoples 

Ep 289 Cecil Peoples w/ Herb Dean Career Deep Dive  

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Ep 288 Homer Moore Career & Controversy 

Homer Moore started him MMA journey with a Richard Hamilton who was a criminal coach enrolled in the witness protection program

He later connected with Sammy the Bull Gravano where he was arrested for an over a decade old m*rder

Homer Moore takes us through these troubling times while also addressing why he tried to street fight Rick Roufus, getting targeted at the Lions Den and the truth about the notorious rigged fight involving Chael Sonnen. 

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Ep 287 Apy Echteld M1 Global & Fedor

Apy Echteld comes from the rich history of the famous Dutch promotion 2 Hot 2 Handle as well as managing Fedor Emelianenko 

Echteld walks us through an incredibly difficult year for M1 (2010) while also balancing the management aspects of Fedor. 

The questions in this interview are not easy to answer and the stress that Echteld dealt with comes though in his answers. 

This is a peak behind the scenes that we never expected the ability to record 

Ep 287 Apy Echt...

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Ep 286 Gan McGee Career Deep Dive 

Gan McGee takes us through his career that had him in a world title fight while also watching his Teamate Chuck Lidell become the sports first global superstar. 

Once again legendary coach John Hackleman sits in on another interview featuring one of his prized athletes. 

Ep 286 Gan McGee Career Deep Dive

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Ep 285 Ant Evans 2007 UFC Deep Dive

Ant Evans spent 13 years working administratively for the UFC under  the capacity of media manager and Fight Pass president. 

In his first ever interview; Ant gives us an incredible look into what was being said behind the scenes when the UFC became the global leader of mixed martial arts. 

This is an interview of the year candidate and we hope that you enjoy it as much as we did. 

Ep 285 Ant Evans UFC 2007 Deep Dive. 

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Ep 284 Bas Boon Golden Glory & Yakuza 

Legendary manager Bas Boon takes us through the incredibly dangerous behind the scenes from one of the world’s most dominant gyms as well as transitioning to having to deal with the Pride FC and the Japanese Yakuza. 

The Golden Glory gym had gangland type hits, internal fighting and a global reputation for NOT being an organization to oppose. 

Bas Boon leaves no stone unturned in this incredibly personal look into his business dealings. 

Ep 284 Bas Boon Golden Glory & Yakuza...

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Ep 283 Jason Von Flue Career Deep Dive 

Jason Von Flue made a name for himself on the Ultimate Fighter Season 2; his appearance thar was somewhat controversial due to how he was treated on the show. 

An original member of The Pit fight team Jason recalls his time watching Chuck Lidell become the sports biggest superstar 

This is Jason Von Flue’s first ever podcast and to say that this was a difficult get… would be an understatement; we hope that you enjoyed this as much as we did.  Duration: 02:31:36

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Ep 282 Antonio Banuelos Career Deep Dive 

Antonio Banuelos is a pioneer of the 135# weight class; he was the WEC champion prior to the weight class existing in the UFC 
Banuelos takes us through his career as well as what it was like to live with Chuck Lidell at the height of his fighting career. 
Special Thank You to John Hackleman for once again joining us on this very special episode. 

Ep 282 Antonio Banuelos Career Deep Dive  


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Ep 281 Bas Boon Dutch Mafia & MMA 

Bas Boon is one of MMA’s  most prolific managers, his involvement in K1 & Pride FC is largely undocumented 

This interview took almost 3 years to finally track down and it guarantee’s a multi part series with a man that has made deals with mafia organizations over 3 different continents 

Ep 281 Bas Boon Dutch Mafia & MMA 

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Ep 279 Hermes Franca Career & Controversy 

Hermes Franca fought some of the toughest guys in the world during his time at the UFC; inside the cage he seemed to be in complete control…. Outside of the cage was a different story. 
In his first interview in over a decade, Her ws joins us to talk about his career and path to a world title fight 
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Ep 279 Hermes Franca Career & Controversy 

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Ep 278 Roberto Traven ADCC & MMA Deep Dive 

Roberto Traven beginnings in the sport takes us back to the war between Lita Livre & Gracie Jiu Jitsu 

Very rarely do we ever get such an early look into a time in the sport when there was such chaos. 

Phenomenal listen 

Ep 278 Roberto Traven ADCC & MMA Deep Dive 

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2:48 learning Jiu jitsu at 16 
4:18 Luta Livre vs Jiu Jitsu 
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Ep 277 Mac Danzig & Kenny Florian The Ultimate Fighter 

Mac Danzig joins us for a part 3 on his career interview, joining the interview in TUF 1 finalist Kenny Florian.  

We get a peak into Kenny Florian’s career prior to the UFC in this historic interview 

Ep 277 Mac Danviz w/ Kenny Florian The Ultimate Fighter 

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Ep 276 Seth Petruzelli Deep Dive 

Seth Petruzelli career is filled with incredible moments; from fighting Bob Sapp in Japan to crashing the EliteXC organization after knocking out Kimbo Slice. 
Seth Petruzelli completely peels back the curtain when discussing his experiences in this incredible interview. 

Seth Petruzelli Deep Dive Ep 276

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1:38 current life 
2:30 teaching Japanese Karate 
4:57 wrestling in high school 
6:46 connecting with Tim Catalfo 
10:29 fighting Kevin Randleman on Rooftop  Duration: 01:53:32

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Ep 275 Wilson Reis BEFORE the UFC 

Wilson Reis came to us through a legendary team consisting of Macaco & Godoi; Reis witnessed the split between the two master coaches.  
We talk about the highs, the lows and the controversy between Godoi and Macaco

Special Thank You to Matt Giancarlo for sitting in and lining this up 

Ep 275 Wilson Reis BEFORE the UFC 

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Ep 274 Mac Danzig Road to The Ultimate Fighter 

Mac Danzig joins us for part 2 of his journey to competing at the sports highest levels. 

Mac Danzig is incredibly reclusive and has intentionally stayed out of the public eye for over a decade 

We hope that you enjoy this episode as much as we did 

Ep 274 Mac Danzig Road to The Ultimate Fighter 

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Bart Vale Career Deep Dive Ep 273

Bart Vale is considered to be one of the few Americans to be on the ground floor of the Japan MMA explosion. 

Bart Vale takes us through his time with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) which include a famous confrontation with Ken Shamrock. 

BIG thank you to William Colosimo who helped us with understanding a time period that is largely undocumented. 

Bart Vale Career Deep Dive Ep 273  

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Ep 272 Carlson Gracie Tribute - Marcelo Mello 

Marcelo Mello reflects on his beginnings with a man whom is considered a modern fighting legend. 

Mello’s, time with Carlson Gracie had him witness the incredible foundation of the greatest combat sports team ever assembled;  His journey there ended with an unspoken incident that had Mello permanently leaving the team. 

 This is a candidate for interview of the year, it is raw, emotional and unapologetic 

Carlson Gracie Tribute - Marcelo Mello Ep 272 

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Christine Ferea BKFC Deep Dice Ep 271 

Christine Ferea is known as the GOAT when it comes to her reign at the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. 
In this episode we get to know Christine Ferea the person in order to understand what drives her to become the most dominant champion in Bare Knuckle history. 

Christine Ferea BKFC Deep Dive 
#bkfc 

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2:01 thoughts on fighting career 
4:21 wanting to fight the best fighters 
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Ep 270 Sean Sherk Early Years 

Sean Sherk has one of the most unique journeys to becoming a UFC World Champion. 
His departure from the sport has always been somewhat of a mystery; in this interview we discuss his path to being called World Champion. 

It is a powerful listen 

Ep 270 Sean Sherk Early years 

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2:08 departure from fighting 
4:43 wrestling career 
10:22 Jiu Jitsu match with Chris Brennan 
11:47 dealings with...

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Ep 269 Gene LeBell Tribute 

Gene LeBell is hard to describe in a few words 
2x National Judo Champion, Pro Wrestler,  Shoot Fighter and internationally respected stuntman are just a few of the things that you can mention. 

Lebell Black Belts John Perretti and John Donehue reminisce about their training and life experiences about a man that made a profound impact on their lives. 

This is a must listen for true historians of combat sports 

Ep 269 Gene LeBell Tribute 

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Ep 258 Nate Quarry The Ultimate Fighter 1 

Nate Quarry was a member of the inaugural season of TUF and a leading advocate for fighters rights. 

Nate Quarry explores the path that he took as a fighter that gave him the credibility to get justice for former MMA fighters all over the world. 
Please join us as we relive Nate’s journey 

Nate Quarry The Ultimate Fighter 1 

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Eddie Gordon Road to The Ultimate Fighter Ep 267 

Eddie Gordon comes from the internationally renowned Serra Longo gym and the winner of TUF 19

Eddie Gordon helps break down why Serra Longo is so successful and the impact it had on him as a person and his career. 

Special Thank You to Nick Lamagna from the A Game podcast for landing this guest 

Eddie Hirdon Road to The Ultimate Fighter Ep 267 

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Nate Marquardt Pancrase years Ep 266

Nate Marquardt is a 50 fight club member with a prolific 20 fight career within the Pancrase organization. 
Nate Marquardt gives us an update as to what he is currently doing as well as a glimpse into his career in Japan 

Nate Marquardt Pancrase years Ep 266

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1:35 current life 
5:36 dangers living in Myanmar
12:20 Colorado fight scene 
15:19 training partner Brad Gumm
17:11 first fights on record 
17:43 trainer Ricardo Murgel Duration: 00:44:48

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Ep 265 Ralph Gracie Career Drive 

Ralph Gracie joins us to discuss the Wild West days of what will later become Mixed Martial Arts. 

Ralph Gracie black belt and BJJ pioneer Allan “Gumby” Marques joins us as we take a look into the life and career of a man that generally does NOT do interviews. 

This one took almost a year to land and is well worth the wait. 

Ralph Gracie Career Deep Dive 
#graciejiujitsu #jiujitsu #Ralphgracie
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Ep 264 Chuck Liddell Early Career Deep Dive 

Chuck Liddell iconic rise to becoming a UFC champion is documented in this historic interview featuring long time trainer and personal friend John Hackleman. 

Chuck Liddell and John Hackleman Rene ice about the beginnings of a career that would propel Chuck to international stardom. 

Leviathan Group and Chris Wood made this interview possible 

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Ep 264 Chuck Liddell Early Years 



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Ep 263 Robert Drysdale MMA & ADCC 

Robert Drysdale is a renowned BJJ historian with an accomplished career in Jiu Jitsu and Martial Arts 

Drysdale reminisces about his BJJ beginnings, winning a world title as well as some incredible moments he experiences as a coach. 

When going into an interview with a fellow historian, it can get super nerdy; we hope that you enjoy this as much as we did 

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Ep 262 Dan Bobish Career Deep Dive 

Dan Bobish record is an incredible resume when you look at his fight record. 
One of the founding members of the legendary Strong Style gym, Dan Bobish recalls some moments from his career that are incredibly fascinating. 
This interview took over 2 years to finally get recorded, we hope that you enjoy it as much as we did. 

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2:03 meeting Dan Severn 
3:54 experience with Richard Hamilton
5:50 Sambo group Tripp academy 
6:30 meeting B...

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Ep 261 Al Iaquinta BEFORE the UFC

Al Iaquinta had an impressive career within the UFC that included a world title fight; what most people dont know is how crazy and difficult his path was to getting a UFC contract.
This interview has Iaquinta recaling stories and issues prior to his stint within the UFC that have never talked about

Special thank you to Nick Lamagna and the A Game podcast for lining this interview up 

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Ep 260 Gabriel Gonzaga Early Career 

Gabriel Gonzaga is a name that pops up on several legendary fighters records. 
internationally respected trainer Wander Braga joins us as we discuss Gonzaga’s beginnings and his incredible run in the ADCC. 
Wander Braga in the ONLY reason that Gonzaga agreed to do the interview and we are incredibly grateful to him for making this episode so special. 

Ep 260 Gabriel Gonzaga Early Career Deep Dive

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Ep 258 Andrei Arlovski 1999-2009 

Andrei Arlovski has never given an interview outside of a fight scrum. 

With the help of ATT coach Mike Brown we were able to wrangle him in for this exclusive sit down. 

Andrei Arlovski arrived in Chicago by way of Belarus with more questions than we have ever had answers…. A lot gets cleared up within this incredible exclusive 

Ep 158 Andrei Arlovski 1999-2009

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Ep 257 Mac Danzig BEFORE the UFC 

Mac Danzig 

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1:01 guest introduction
1:19 interview start 
4:04 learning techniques from VHS tapes 
5:25 UFC 2 being the most violent UFC event 
8:23 early beginnings in MMA 
13:05 connecting with the Raw team 
18:35 Rico Chiaperelli rolling with Rickson Gracie 
22:05 Mac Danzig vs Kurt Pelligrino
25:10 opinion on east coast sports fans
28:04 Extreme challenge 8 man tournament 
37:59 dealings with Monte Cox
40:13 Mac Danzig vs Joe Jordan
43:26 taking the hard road in fighting 
46:25 Mac Danzig v...

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Ep 256 John Donehue Australian BJJ Pioneer 

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1:01 guest introduction
1:33 interview start 
1:44 early beginnings in MMA
5:47 going to the United States for Jiu Jitsu
7:46 training with Gene Labell 
11:14 Gene Labell training stuntman Matt Johnson 
15:00 watching UFC 1
19:36 relationship with John Perretti
25:47 training with Dan Inosanto
28:28 MARS event 
29:40 Rico Chiaperelli dropped from the Gracie system 
35:54 John Perretti introduction 
36:05 reffing extreme fighting 2
36:59 getting arrested after extreme fighting event 
40:03 having an eye for reffing
44:39 the importance...

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Ep 255 Pete Spratt Career Deep Dive 

Pete Spratt was known for having explosive power and anyone brave or foolish enough to stand and trade with him paid the price. 

What took place behind the scenes with Pete Spratt is actually just as interesting as what we saw in the cage. 

Ep 255 Pete Spratt Career Deep Dive 

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1:30 beginnings in MMA
3:40 training coach Saekson JanJira
7:21 training with Lions Den members 
9:33 Pete Spratt vs Jeremiah Oniel Duration: 01:25:22

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Ep 254 - 2024 Year in Review

Sit back and relax as the LOP crew break down statistics from the past year as well as the inner workings and how we manage information.

We address what was taking place behind the scenes in order to land some of this years guests as well s follow ups to the stand out appearances.

Special Thank You to Hong Kong Phooey from TheOnlyGround.com

Ep 254 - 2024 Year in Review

Our favorite interviewee John Perretti  

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Ep 253 Jay Ellis Life of a Journeyman 

Jay Ellis is a veteran of almost 150 fights including 30 UFC veterans abs almost 2 dozen Bellator competitors. 
Jay has never said no to a fight and has some incredible wins on his record that are shocking. 

Ep 253 Jay Ellis Life of a Journeyman 

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1:32 inspired by Royce Gracie
3:20 Jay Ellis vs Justin Wieman
6:54 opponent Kevin Furgison mistaken for Kimbo Slice 
8:08 taking fights on short notice 
9:37...

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Ep 252 Joe Doerkson Early Career Deep Dive

Joe Doerkson is Canadas first 50 Fight Club member
Hailing from Manitoba Canada Joe Doerkson was a guy that had to make BIG sacrifices in order dedicate himself to a life of fighting. Having never said no to a fight, it will surprise you as to the opponents he faced and the pay associated with them. This interview is a walk through what we at the LOP would call a legendary career; a hard to track down interview with one of the sports more...

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Ep 251 Spencer Fisher Update w/ Peter Freer

Spencer Fisher publicly stated a few years ago that he had been suffering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and that his mental/physical well being was declining. 

Peter Freer is a life long friend of Spencer Fisher and the creator of PlayAttention.com

In this episode we discuss the current medical options available for people with Spencer’s condition and how PlayAttentiom.com has impacted their lives. 

This is a feel good interview that left us with the...

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Ep 250 Roland Sarria Career & Controversy 

0:00 plugs/ promotions 
0:42 Lytes out intro 
1:01 guest introduction 
1:25 interview start 
2:03 beginnings in Jiu Jitsu 
3:35 Gracie Challenge matches 
9:41 relationship with Rickson Gracie 
11:35 opening up first Gym 
12:36 experience with Richard Hamilton
14:34 Richard Hamilton leaving the Phoenix fight scene 
16:54 Trainer Steve Owen’s 
17:54 interactions with Erik Paulson 
21:37 Erik Paulson taking private lessons from the Gracie’s 
23:30 thoughts on John Perretti 
25:10 John Lober’s reputation in the LA scene 
29:33 leaving Rickson Gracie’s gym 
33:14 self promoting to black belt ...

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Ep 249 Oleg Taktarov Career Deep Dive 

Oleg Taktarov became a household name at UFC 5; his journey through the NHB era started prior to UFC 1. 

Join us as Oleg Taktarov takes us through a legendary career with a lot of crazy stories. 

Ep 249 Oleg Taktarov Career Deep Dive 

0:00 plugs/ promotions 
0:42 Lytes out intro 
1:01 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 
1:21 interview start 
3:01 Russian special forces 
3:20 learning Sambo at age 9 
7:24 Maxim Tarasov
7:56 1994 iron Gladoator champion
11:48 Pancrase holding NHB before the UFC 
15:29 tra...

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Ep 248 Chris Camozzi BEFORE the UFC Ep 

Chris Camozzi is a 20 fight UFC veteran and the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 205lbs World Champion. 

Camozzis journey to the UFC is starts at the grassroots of the Denver Colorado scene; this is a fun listen 

Chris Camozzi BEFORE the UFC Ep 248

0:00 plugs/ promotions 
0:42 Lytes out intro 
1:01 guest introduction 
1:15 interview start 
1:49 Chris Camozzi vs Sawyer Depee 
6:47 training with Chael Sonnen
9:25 meeting Chael Sonnen 
13:14 connecting with Chris Weidman 
17:12 training fighters in New York <...

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Ep 247 Paul Jones Career Deep Dive 

Paul Jones started his career in Steve Nelson’s United Shoot Wrestling Federation. 
Heath Herring, Evan Tanner and Ali Elias are a few of the names that he worked out with on his way to fighting in the UFC. 

Paul’s career has some of the most stringent MMA experts debating exactly how good he was.; an alternate Olympic wrestler and a world champion Sambo player it comes with no surprise that he has dominant wins over Erik Paulson, Heath Herring and  Sanae Ki...

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Ep 245 John Perretti Extreme Fighting 3 

John Perretti joins us once again in order to continue to document the incredibly important Extreme Fighting Battlecade events. 

John Perretti is the foundation of which “Modern” MMA is built on top of; his Extreme Fighting Battlecade events are the blue prints for which grew the understanding of the sport. 

This is a fun one 

Ep 245 John Perretti Extreme Fighting Battlecade  


0:00 Lytes out intro

0:19 guest introduction

0:55 interview start 

2:51 dealing with John Perretti <...

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Ep 244 Miletich Fighting Systems  Championship Years - Jeremy Horn 

Pat Miletich, Matt Hughes, Jens Pulver and Tim Sylvia captured the UFC championship belts while all working out at the Miletich Fighting System in Davenport Iowa. 

Jeremy Horn was the architect and master planner behind the work that went into this incredible moment in mixed martial arts. 

Jeremy Horn and the MMA set Mike Davis discuss this historic championship run while also examining the science that went into each fight. 

Ep 244 Miletich Fighting Systems  Championship Years - Jere...

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Ep 243 Court McGee Addiction Before the UFC 

Court McGee has a story that can compete with Ian Heinisch when it comes to their activities prior to fighting in the UFC. 
Court McGee shares with us aspects of his life and career BEFORE he got to the UFC. 

Ep 243 Court McGee Addiction Before the UFC  

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:32 interview start 
0:40 early life/ battle with addiction
4:21 experimenting with drinking 
6:54 getting prescribed Oxycodone after injury 
8:51 being arrested for DUI while underage 
11:0...

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Ep 242 Gary Marino MMA Pioneer

Gary Marino's journey into the world of MMA started at UFC 7, having gained noteriety as both a manager and a matchmaker there isbt a job within the sport that Marino has not excelled at.
IFL team owner, Jon Jones manager and the first person to bring Kimbo Slice into the cage; Gary Marino's career is a wild ride

0:00 Lytes out intro

0:19 guest introduction

0:31 interview start 

0:48 early beginnings in MMA

4:04 being on administrative side of early U...

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Ep 241 John Dixson Career Deep Dive

John Dixson comes to us from Mississippi and is a veteran of international No Holds Barred competitions. John Dixson has fought some incredible names, Carlos Barreto, Igor Vovchancyn, Andrei Arlovski, Remco Pardoel and Jeremy Horn to name a few.

John Dixson fought in the "Outlaw Era" of Mixed Martial Arts and is one of the few Americans that had intimate dealings with mafia goops from 4 different countries. This is a wild listen, I suggest that you sit back and take this one in.<...

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Ep 240 Sam Hoger TUF 1 Deep Dive 

Sam Hoger was a participant on one of the most important moments within the history of the UFC. 
 The Ultimate Fighter Season 1 brought the UFC from spectacle to mainstream sport. 
Sam Hoger takes us through his journey to get on the TUF show as well as the process of the first ever Ultimate Fighter TV show. 
Sam Hoger is full of stories in this historic interview. 

Ep 240 Sam Hoger TUF 1 Deep Dive 

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0:19 guest introduction
0:3...

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Ep 239 Extreme Fighting Batlecade 2 - Donald Zuckerman

Donald Zuckerman & John Perretti came together to create the Extreme Fighting Battlecade series; although they only had 4 events, what they put together can be described as the beginning of the sports “Modern Era”. 
Donald Zuckerman and John Perretti discuss an event that had its participants arrested and international scrutiny of the sport as a whole. 
This is a must listen for the hardcore history fans. 

Ep 239 Extreme Fighting Batlecade 2 - Donald Zuckerman

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0:19 Joey Venti’s guest i...

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Ep 238 John Lober Career Deep Dive 

John Lober is one of the sports biggest mysteries; his body of work isnt lengthy,  but the fighters that he competed against are considered to be some of the world’s best. 

When researching John and speaking to his contemporaries, the stories of both inside and out of the cage were always intense and often times difficult to believe. 

John Lober comes to us and gives us a raw look into a man that many today both still fear and respect. 
Duration: 01:58:27

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Ep 237 Valentijn Overeem Early Career Deep Dive 

Valentijn Overeem is a 50 fight club member that started his career in the mid 90’s. 
Valentijn takes us through the early Dutch MMA/Kickboxing scene with some incredible stories while at the same time diving into some career highs. 

Interviews like this are exactly the reason we love the early Dutch scene 

Ep 237 Valentijn Overeem Early Career Deep Dive 

Ep 237 Valentijn Overeem Early Career Deep Dive 

Valentijn Overeem is a 50 fight club member that started his care...

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Ep 236 Pete Drago Sell Career Deep Dive 

Pete Sell started his career at the famous Serra Longo gym in New York. 
We discuss the Phil Baroni rivalry, Matt Serra beating George St Pierre as well as what it was like participating in the east coast underground  fight scene. 

Ep 236 Pete Drago Sell Career Deep Dive 

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:34 interview start 
1:48 dropping out of college to pursue fight career 
3:18 guest security on the Jerry Springer show 
4:43 beginnings in MMA 
9:01 rolling w...

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Ep235 Jeff Curran BEFORE the UFC 

Jeff Curran is one of Pedro Sauer’s first black belts and his journey into the world of Mixed Martial Arts started BEFORE the first UFC. 

Jeff Curran is a coach, promoter and most importantly a fighter. 

Jeff brings us through various points in his early career that help the listeners understand why the words “locker room respect” is synonymous with his name. 

This is part 1 of a many part series featuring a true pioneer within the sport 

Ep235 J...

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Ep 234 Ben Rothwell BEFORE the IFL 

Ben Rothwell has made a name for himself fighting against some
of the worlds toughest competitors.

Rothwells path to the UFC started when he was in high school, the stories uncovered on Ben’s journey to the top is an incredible listen. 

Ep 234 Ben Rothwell BEFORE the IFL 

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:36 interview start 
0:42 plugs/ promotions 
6:23 Ben Rothwell vs Rico Rodriguez
9:27 Ben Rothwell vs Nick Bartlett
13:27 lying about age to Monte Cox Duration: 01:28:28

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Ep 233 Aung La Nsang Road to OneFC

Aung La Nsang journey started with a student visa to travel to the United States from Myanmar.
Aung La Nsang path to becoming a world champion is the most unique that we have ever covered. 

This is a great listen 

Ep 233 Aung La Nsang Road to OneFC

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 Joey Venti’s guest introduction
0:40 interview start 
1:02 early life 
2:40 training Lethwei growing up 
6:00 coming to the United States to study agriculture
7:40 connect...

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Ep 231 Todd Margolis Jiu Jitsu Pioneer 

Todd Margolis journey into the world of Jiu Jitsu started after a need to compete when his wrestling career ended. 

Todd Margolis path had him compete against some of the sport’s biggest names; Igor Gracie, Rafael Lovato, David & Marcos Avon just to name a few. 

Todd’s career is one of the more difficult projects that we have taken on and we are glad to have finally recorded it. 


Ep 231 Todd Margolis Jiu Jitsu Pioneer 

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Ep 230 Johnathon Ivey Life of a Journeyman 

Johnathon Ivey is a lockeroom staple that has fought a whos who within the sport of MMA. 

We discuss some of his notable opponents as well as his roll in saving main events on the regional scene and navigating through some of the shadiest promoters in the business. 

Ivey is someone that carries a lot of respect within the closed doors of the locker room and this episode shows us why that is. 

Ep 230 Johnathon Ivey Life of a Jo...

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Ep 229 Luke Cummo Career Deep Dive 

Luke Cummo made a name for himself on The Ultimate Fighter season 2. The Matt Serra & Ray Longo fighter went into the house as a huge underdog and would up in the finals. 

We track Luke’s career and dig into his journey to becoming the pioneer class of the ultimate fighter. 

Ep 229 Luke Cummo Career Deep Dive 

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:35 interview start 
1:33 plugs promotions/ dealing with brain injury 
5:47 experience with Ken Pavia
9:05 promoter...

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Ep 228  Extreme Fighting 1 John Perretti & Igor Zinoviev 

IF YOU USE ANY OF THIS FOOTAGE, WITHOUT PERMISSION WE WILL STRIKE YOUR CHANNEL 

John Perretti is largely attributed as coining the phrase “Mixed Martial Arts”. In this episode we dive into his first event Extreme Fighting Battlecade.  
John Perretti is joined by Igor Zinoviev and we recall an event that we consider to be the start of the “Modern Era” of Mixed Martial Arts. 
This episode is full of gems and highlights why we love John a perretti as a guest.  Duration: 02:17:02

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Ep 227 Sergio Batarelli IVT 1996-98

Sergio Batarelli was a world champion kick boxer that transitioned to being one of the pioneers of the No Holds Barred era. 
Sergio Batarelli’s International Vale Tudo Championship was made famous for its 30 minute round and very few rules. 
Sergio is a legend within our sport and is a foundational father of the term No Holds Barred. 


0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:59 interview start 
1:25 getting involved in fighting 
3:10 Jiu Jitsu vs Martial Arts 
4:50 roots of MMA
...

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Ep 226 David Loiseau Career Deep Dive 

 David Loiseau is one of the founding members of Tri Star gym. 
David Loiseau was surrounded by greatness with teamates like Ivan Menjivar, Georges St Pierre & Patrick Cote. 
Denis Kang lined up the interview and joins us for a very special look at the beginnings of a career that fought some of the worlds greatest athletes. 

Ep 226 David Loiseau Career Deep Dive

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 Joey Venti’s guest introduction
0:45 interview start 
2:24 plugs/ promotions 
2:54 early interest...

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Miguel Torres WEC & UFC Years 

Miguel Torres career started prior to the 135# weight division existing within the UFC. A true pioneer of the lighter weight classes Miguel Torres takes us on his journey from being in the top 3 P4P in the world to his unceremonious exit from the UFC. 

This episode is unscripted and raw and it features someone that belongs in everyone’s Hall of Fame Miguel Torres

Special Thank You to Ralph García for piecing this one together. 

Miguel Torres WEC & UFC ye...

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Ep 224 Darrick Minner Fall From Glory 

Darrick Minner is a Midwest standout from Nebraska City that fought 50x prior to making his UFC debut. 

We track Darrick Minner’s journey through his stint in the UFC which ended when fought Shayilan Nuerdanbieke. 

What would seem as just a set back in Minner’s fight career quickly turned into a media firestorm with lots of accusations and beliefs that had the entire world talking about. 

NOTHING was censored or asked to be taken out of this intervie...

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EP 223 Adrian Serrano Before the UFC

Adrian Serrano is a legend within the early No Holds Barres era of MMA. 

With almost 150 fights, Adrian Serrano recalls traveling all over the world fighting  under a limited rule set. 

Special Thank You to Jake Klipp for connecting us and helping preserve this very important piece of Mixed Martial Arts history 

Adrian Serrano BEFORE the UFC Ep 223


0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:35 interview start 
0:40 plugs/ promotions
1:30 beginnings in MMA
3:07 learning the h...

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Ep 222 Igor Zinoviev Career Deep Dive 

IF YOU USE ANY OF THIS FOOTAGE, WITHOUT PERMISSION WE WILL STRIKE YOUR CHANNEL 

Igor Zinoviev made a name for himself at Extreme Fighting 1 when he defeated Mario Sperry.  Zinoviev went on to Fight Frank Sgamrock for a world title and quietly disappeared from the world of combat sports. 
The low profile Zinoviev has had a lot of questions in regards to his training, background and what he has done since leaving the sport. 

Zinoviev address’s everyth...

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Ep 220 Carlos Newton MMA Career Deep Dive 

Carlos Newton is a pioneer of the early days in f Mixed Martial Arts as well as Canadas first World Champion. 

Carlos Newton made his debut on John Perretti’s Extreme Fighting; in this interview John Perretti joins us in order to add depth to the accomplishments 

Carlos Newton was a main fighter in the UFC anti trust lawsuit. 

We would NOT have gotten this interview had John Perretti not called Carlos personally on Kurt behalf. 

Ep 220...

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Ep 217 John Lewis Career Deep Dive 

John Lewis is a mixed martial arts  pioneer that made a name for himself during what some call the “UFC Dark Era”. 
We are also joined by legendary match maker John Perretti & we dive into John Lewis career and the steps that each of these men took in order to pave the way for the lighter weight classes 

John Lewis does NOT do interviews and the only way that we were able to get this was due to John Perretti calling on a favor...

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Ep 215 Mark Robinson Sumo & ADCC DeepDive 

Mark Robinson hails from South Africa and is known as his countries greatest athlete. Although he had one fight in the UFC, what Mark Robinson accomplished in Sumo and ADCC is absolutely legendary and filled with controversy.

Mark Robinson does not sugar coat feelings nor avoid hard topics that were rumored but never discussed on record. This interview is an incredible look into the dark world of combat sports; bribery, fixed fights often go unspoken within international competitions... NOT in this interview.
Duration: 01:09:12

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Ep 213 Shannon Gugerty Career Deep Dive

Shannon Gugerty cut his teeth in the lawless Tijuana Mexico MMA scene, his insight into the early days of competing in unsanctioned events makes this a must listen to interview.
Do you like, Brandon Vera, Jocko Wilnick, Dominic Cruz and Dean Lister? Shannon Gugerty was a part of the glue that held that group together

0:00 Lytes out intro

0:19 guest introduction

0:30 interview start 

0:54 beginnings in MMA

2:30 experience with Mark Dion

5:33 meeting Erik DelFiero Duration: 01:23:44

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Charlie Kohler ADCC Beginnings Ep 212

Charlie Kohler is a staple among the early California NHB scene, this episode Charlie Kohler documents his experience with Sheik Tahnoon and the evolution of what has become the greatest combat sporting tournament in the world.

Charlie Kohler will be coming back very shortly in order to talk about his career within the sport of Mixed Martial Arts

Charlie Kohler ADCC Bebinnings Ep 212

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0:19 guest introduction

0:29 interview start 

0:56 little online info about C...

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Babalu Renato Sobral 2005-2007 Deep Dive Ep 211
 
Babalu joins us to continue talking about his career and reflects on some of his training partners fights

We don’t skirt around the relationships of the era  Luta Livre vs Carlson Gracie, Don Frye bs Marco Ruas and Rafiel Cordero are all discussed here 

Babalu Renato Sobral 2005-2007 Deep Dive 

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:26 plugs/promotions
2:11 interview start 
2:14 issues in the gym with Hector Lombard
4:00 training Hugo Duarte for Tank Abbott
4:5...

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Luigi Fioravante Career Deep Dive Ep 209 

Luigi Fioravante MMA journey started in the Marines with Rafiel Torre and Gerald Strebendt. Having trained at the American Top Team, Luigi Fioravante made a name for himself on the independent grind 

Luigi Fioravante Career Deep Dive Ep 209 

0:00 Lytes out intro
0:19 guest introduction
0:27 interview start 
0:31 current life 
2:20 joining the marines after high school 
2:56 meeting Gerald Strebendt and Rafiel Torre 
4:07 training with Rafiel Torre 
6:20 finding out about Rafiel Torre Murder 
7:17 3/7 Lima co weapons Platoon 
7:45 g...