Beyond The Canvas

In this episode, I sit down with former professional boxer Todd Roberts, now head coach at Baker Street Boxing Club.We explore Todd’s journey into boxing, from his early days in the sport through to his amateur and professional career. He shares the realities of life as a fighter, the sacrifices required to compete, and the mindset needed to stay in the game. Todd also opens up about his decision to step away from competing and transition into coaching — a move that brought a new sense of purpose.The conversation moves into his work as a coach, including how a chance connection with pre-UFC fighter Christian Leroy Duncan led to opportunities within MMA. Since then, Todd has gone on to coach over 15 MMA fighters and become a key part of two fighters’ core teams.This episode is about evolution, discipline, and dedication — both in and out of the ring. Todd closes with a simple but powerful reminder on how consistency, over time, is what truly breeds success.

This episode of Beyond the Canvas is dedicated to the life and memory of Adam Webb, who sadly passed away on 13/06/26.Adam was a former professional MMA fighter and coach, but more than that, he was a presence — someone who brought energy, confidence, and warmth into every room he stepped into. Known for his big heart, infectious spirit, and genuine kindness, Adam left a lasting impression on everyone he met.In this tribute episode, I’ve brought together a collection of video messages from Adam’s friends, teammates, and those who knew him best. They share their stories, experiences, and the moments that defined who Adam was — not just as a fighter, but as a person.This is more than a reflection on his achievements; it’s a celebration of his character, his impact, and the connections he built throughout his life.He will be deeply missed, but more importantly, he will always be remembered.

In this episode of Beyond the Canvas, I’m joined by Dan Ward — a 10th degree black belt in Ninjitsu, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, former amateur MMA fighter, and ex-Metropolitan Police firearms officer with experience in diplomatic and political protection.We dive into Dan’s journey into martial arts and fighting, exploring the history and philosophy behind Ninjitsu, and how his path evolved from training to real-world application. The conversation moves through the realities of policing in the UK, the pressures that come with it, and how those experiences shape a person both mentally and physically.We also unpack the perception of martial arts — not just as a sport or competition, but as a deeper practice that extends beyond rules, clubs, and controlled environments. Dan shares his thoughts on keeping martial arts open, adaptable, and true to its roots.Alongside this, we explore mental health, particularly anxiety, and how training, mindset, and life experience all play a role in managing it. Dan closes the episode with simple but powerful advice that cuts through the noise and speaks directly to anyone dealing with anxiety.This is a conversation about reality, perspective, and what it means to stay grounded in both combat and everyday life.

In this episode, I’m joined by Job Salomão Rigon—a former Brazilian Tactical Police Officer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt, and amateur MMA fighter—for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation.We explore Job’s deep-rooted family history in service, from his grandfather in the army to his father in the police, and how that legacy carried through him and his brothers serving in the navy before transitioning into policing. He shares insights into Brazilian culture and the warrior mentality shaped by harsh environments, producing world-class fighters like José Aldo, Charles Oliveira, and Alex Pereira.Job also reflects on his move to the UK, adjusting to a completely different environment, and his journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, from his first exposure during police training to finding a home under Ali Mason at Range Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Gloucester. We discuss the brotherhood, discipline, and lifelong bonds that come with the sport, as well as his transition into MMA and the sacrifices required to compete across multiple disciplines.He opens up about the tragic loss of a close friend, murdered off duty in Brazil, whose influence continues to live on through Job’s journey in Jiu-Jitsu—the very art his friend introduced him to. We also touch on fatherhood, including the shared concerns around our sons entering martial arts and competing at a young age.Job finishes with a powerful message on chasing your dreams, emphasizing that success comes from fully committing and giving everything to the path you choose.

In this episode, I’m joined by Hassan Patel—a firearms police officer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt, former amateur MMA fighter and boxer, and now a novice archer. We explore how he balances a demanding life across martial arts, career, fatherhood, and religious commitments, and what it takes to stay consistent across so many disciplines.Hassan shares insights into why rugby players often transition well into BJJ, his respect for MMA fighters and the dedication required to master multiple skill sets, and the importance of avoiding inconsistency, which he believes can quickly stall both progression and passion.We also dive into his journey with archery, and how it has brought a sense of clarity, mindfulness, and alignment with both his mental health and faith. Throughout the conversation, Hassan highlights how the discipline gained through martial arts carries into every aspect of his life—including his role as a firearms officer.

In this episode, I’m joined by Jon Pitman, head coach of Fight Factory Gloucester, for a raw and honest conversation about his journey. From his early days as an amateur boxer, Jon opens up about a difficult period in his life involving trouble with the law and addiction, and the turning point that led him to rebuild his life through boxing.Now a respected coach and gym owner, Jon shares the mindset behind his no-nonsense coaching philosophy, the standards he sets, and the environment he’s created at Fight Factory. We also talk about his stable of fighters, and how the gym has grown into something much deeper than just a place to train—becoming a tight-knit family built on trust, discipline, and accountability.

In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Biggs to explore his journey from the amateur ranks into his professional boxing career, and the decision to step away from competition to pursue a path in coaching. Now a Level 3 England Boxing Coach and DiSE Head Coach at Filton College, Michael is shaping the next generation of fighters.We dive into the evolution of dieting and weight cutting in boxing, the growing spotlight on female fighters, and the rise of white collar boxing—weighing it up against the foundations of traditional amateur competition. Michael also shares his experience working corners on major shows with Matchroom and BOXXER, offering a behind-the-scenes insight into elite-level boxing.To round off, Michael delivers powerful advice on resilience, highlighting how pushing through difficult moments can build character and set you up for long-term growth—both inside and outside the ring.

In this episode, I’m joined by Ben Rudman to explore his journey through boxing, judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and how those experiences led him into MMA coaching and co-promoting his first event, Iron Fight Championship.Ben also shares insight into his life outside of combat sports, working as a landscaper and successfully using social media to grow his business and build a loyal following.We discuss the realities of fatherhood in combat sports, including the balance between fear and confidence as his son Kayden steps into the arena. Ben closes the conversation with a powerful message on taking action—why being a “doer” will always outweigh simply talking about being proactive.

In this episode, I’m joined by former UFC fighter Ché Mills for a powerful and honest conversation. We discuss his journey through MMA, the development of Mills Muay Thai Academy, and his passion for mentoring young people coming through challenging environments.Ché opens up about his childhood, including growing up while his father was incarcerated, and how those experiences shaped his mindset and direction in life. We also talk about his commitment to giving back to his community and the responsibility he feels to guide the next generation.A key part of this conversation focuses on men’s mental health, where Ché shares his advice on seeking help, opening up, and building the kind of support systems that allow men to grow stronger—mentally and emotionally.

In this episode, I’m joined by former English, British, and European six-title Muay Thai champion David Willmott. We explore his incredible journey through combat sports, including stepping into the boxing ring at 48 years old and not even beginning his career until the age of 30.David shares stories from training across some of the UK’s toughest gyms, the moment a sparring session with Andrew Tate earned him the nickname “Da Bull,” and how his path eventually led him to finding faith in Islam.We also dive into a deeper conversation around modern masculinity, discussing what it really means to be a healthy man today—highlighting the importance of emotional openness, brotherhood, and building genuine, vulnerable relationships with other men.

Former professional boxer Max Mudway joins the show to share his journey beyond the ring. We discuss his transition from boxing to a new chapter focused on mindset coaching, personal training, and HYROX, exploring how the discipline and mental resilience of sport apply far beyond competition.Max also offers powerful insights into modern masculinity, reflecting on society’s expectations of men and the importance of reconnecting with our primal strength, purpose, and authenticity. A conversation about growth, mindset, and redefining what it means to be strong, inside and out.