UFC Fighter Elijah “Swift” Smith: Wrestling, Fatherhood & the Mental Side of Fighting episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 23, 2026 · 1H 9M

UFC Fighter Elijah “Swift” Smith: Wrestling, Fatherhood & the Mental Side of Fighting

from The Heart of the Bad Wolf

UFC bantamweight Elijah “Swift” Smith joins The Heart of the Bad Wolf to talk about his journey into the UFC, the mindset required to compete at the highest level, and the realities of life as a professional fighter.Elijah breaks down the difference between being hurt and being injured, the mental toughness required inside the cage, and why recovery, discipline, and smart training are key to longevity in MMA.In this conversation, Elijah also shares:• How he transitioned from wrestling to professional MMA • The origin of his nickname “Swift” • Knocking out his first amateur opponents in seconds • The importance of film study and game planning in the UFC • Training with elite fighters and learning the levels of the sport • Working with a sports psychologist to strengthen the mental side of fighting • Balancing life as a UFC fighter and a fatherElijah also reflects on fighting on Dana White’s Contender Series, earning his place in the UFC, and the motivation that drives him to keep improving every day.This episode dives deep into the mindset, discipline, and sacrifices required to compete in the world of mixed martial arts.Watch the full episode on YouTube and subscribe for more conversations with fighters and athletes about the mindset behind combat sports.Follow Elijah Smith on Instagram: @shakurdabag02Follow the show's Instagram page @theheartofthebadwolfWatch the show on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/@TheheartofthebadwolfPodcast production by Command Creative Studios https://commandcreativestudios.com#ElijahSmith #UFC #MMAPodcast #TheHeartOfTheBadWolf #UFCFighter #CombatSports

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UFC Fighter Elijah “Swift” Smith: Wrestling, Fatherhood & the Mental Side of Fighting

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