Lions Eat First: Jimi Manuwa on Bare-Knuckle Rumors, UFC Pressure, and The Comeback Mindset

Former UFC Light Heavyweight contender Jimi "Poster Boy" Manuwa joins The Steven Sulley Study to reflect on his explosive combat career, the psychological battles of retirement, and why he’s preparing to step back inside the ring this year. From finding MMA at age 28 to headlining the O2 Arena against Alexander Gustafsson, Manuwa gets real about fight pay, handling media noise, and the warrior code behind his mantra, "Lions eat first." Whether breaking down Paddy Pimblett's recent win or teasing potential moves into boxing and bare-knuckle fighting, Manuwa delivers an unfiltered look at the grit, discipline, and mental strength required to live at the top of combat sports. Key Takeaways Jimi Manuwa began his mixed martial arts journey unusually late at age 28, taking his first fight on just two weeks of training. Success at the elite level comes down to mental resilience and setting continuous targets, rather than relying solely on raw punching power. The pressure to maintain an undefeated record and chase knockouts can work against a fighter when competing at the top of a division. Manuwa confirmed plans to return to active competition this year, with ongoing talks involving both boxing and bare-knuckle promotions. BEST MOMENTS "It is the lions eat first, and you have got to be a lion... there's no mercy for anyone, especially as a man." "You can't never not have any goals... You've always got to have a target that you've got to reach." "When I throw punches or kicks or whatever, it is to hurt, it is to finish the fight." "Don't get too comfortable... Be happy, but things can change at any minute." VALUABLE RESOURCES https://www.instagram.com/jimimanuwa?igsi=dXZwcTNyMDBnN3cy ⁠The Steven Sulley Study ⁠ 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