Bodyguard And Businessman, Matt Fiddes On Turning Pain Into Power

Steven talks to bodyguard-to-the-stars, businessman and martial arts guru, Matt Fiddes, about his background as a child and his experience with bullying, his journey as a young entrepreneur and property investor, and his affiliation with high-profile figures such as Michael Jackson. Matt shares his personal story of being bullied as a child and how it ultimately motivated him to pursue martial arts and become successful. He also discusses his friendship with Michael Jackson and his role as a trusted friend and unofficial bodyguard, with insights into Matt's entrepreneurial journey and the impact of his martial arts business, which has grown to over 1,750 locations worldwide with an estimated net worth of over £120 million Key Takeaways Matt built a successful martial arts business, which has now expanded to over 1,750 locations worldwide, with an estimated net worth of over £120 million. Matt developed a close friendship with the late Michael Jackson, who trusted him as a friend and confidant. Their friendship was based on mutual trust and loyalty, and Matt provided personal security for Michael when needed. Matt emphasises the importance of brand value and the power of social proof in building a successful business. He believes that his association with high-profile individuals like Michael Jackson has contributed to the success and recognition of his brand. There were challenges during the COVID-19 lockdown but Matt managed to adapt and grow his business by investing heavily in advertising and taking his martial arts schools online. This resulted in significant growth and recognition, including winning the Entrepreneur 2022 award. BEST MOMENTS "I was dragged to school by my mum, bless her. Me trying to make up stories to try and make her believe I wasn't feeling very well because I had this bully at school who was a nightmare." "If it wasn't for being bullied, and your viewers list might be thinking this is strange, I met him on national TV for the first time, I think in 32 years. He reached out to me and he said, Matt, I'm really sorry for how I treated you at school, in infant school." - "I am just a martial artist. That is what I am. That is my passion. I love it. That's all I am. I just learn how to give the public what they want." "I was a million pound a year earning at 18 years old, which wasn't that difficult to do for me. That was very, very simple." VALUABLE RESOURCES The Steven Sulley Study Matt Fiddes - https://mattfiddes.com/ ABOUT THE HOST The Steven Sulley Study is my take on success. My view is you should have multiple focuses to be a well-rounded individual. Success shouldn’t be just one thing like money, for example, it should also consist of a healthy fit lifestyle and thriving relationships. As a person who has made successes in life, and also made huge cock-ups, I feel I can offer suggestions and tips on how to become successful, or at least start your pursuit. My ‘Study’ has taken resources from reading and education plus being around, my perception of, successful people - and I know a lot of successful people from all walks of life. My ‘Study’ coming from my experiences in business, investing, sales (my core background), training, boxing and education has enabled me to become well-rounded and successful and I will help you in these key areas too. CONTACT METHOD Instagram