Unplanned Episodes 1: The World Fencing League Can Change Everything...

The Fencing Podcast of All Fencing Podcasts.After an unplanned hiatus, Ari and Stephen return to Direct Elimination with a commitment to authenticity, consistency, and real conversations about fencing. From their original failed league project to witnessing history at the World Cups, this episode marks a fresh start for the podcast that refuses to take itself too seriously.In this episode, you'll discover:• Why Ari and Stephen took a break from posting and what they're doing differently in 2026 to stay consistent• The truth about their original professional fencing league concept and why they're celebrating someone else making it happen• Stephen's firsthand experience competing at the Fujairah World Cup and the realities of tournament life in the Middle East• How underdogs like Elijah Imrek and Conrad Kongstad are proving that traditional fencing powerhouses don't have a monopoly on medals anymoreAri Simmons and Stephen Ewart are the hosts of Direct Elimination, competitive fencers, and passionate advocates for growing the sport beyond its traditional boundaries. Their combined perspective as athletes, content creators, and former league organizers gives unique insight into where fencing is headed.If you're a fencer looking for honest conversations about the sport without the corporate polish, hit subscribe and join us every week. Drop a comment telling us what tournament results surprised you most or what you want us to cover next!⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00:00 Welcome Back: 2026 Goals & Hiatus Explanation00:04:09 Being More Authentic & Dropping Formality00:06:13 Original League Project & World Fencing League00:14:23 Stephen's Fujairah World Cup Recap00:28:10 Reconnecting Through Fencing00:32:13 Tournament Recap: Elijah's Breakthrough & Kong Stad's Medal00:42:00 The Evolution of Fencing Technique00:49:45 Dubai Chocolate & Content Plans💬 QUOTES"How freaking cool is it that there is money being poured from outside of fencing into fencing, and not through the traditional NGBs or Federations?""you don't have to come from the traditional fencing countries. The powers that be are constantly shifting and everyone has a chance."MYO - click hereModern physical therapy to futureproof your body. Through 1:1 expert care, they use full-body awareness and proactive insights to intercept injury, reduce pain, and improve your every day. Use promo code "DIRECTMYO100" for $100 off your first session.Theme song written and performed by Colin Campbell🔗 Connect with Colin📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campbelltunes/?hl=enThank you for listening!🔗 Check out FencR🌐: https://www.fencr.app/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fencr.app🔗 Connect with Us🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple: https://link.me/directelimination📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/directelimination/🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@directeliminationpodcast📺 Subscribe for more episodes: youtube.com/@DirectElimination🔗 Prieur USA🌐: https://www.prieurusa.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prieur_usa/