MMA History Podcast

David "Tank" Abbott returns for part 4 as the team quotes directly from Tito Ortiz's autobiography This Is Gonna Hurt and gets Tank's raw, unfiltered response to every claim. From Tito's glue-sniffing childhood hallucinations and shocking family stories to the infamous stolen check incident, training sessions where Tito claims he dominated Tank on the mat, UFC blackballing accusations, early weight-class politics, and more — nothing is off-limits.Tank breaks down Tito's version of their training relationship, sets the record straight on his own wrestling background and real street-fighting roots, and explains why he believes Tito's entire persona was manufactured. The conversation also covers Chuck Liddell's actual contender path versus hand-picked opponents, the "Tito Ortiz rule" at 205 lbs, and a tease into Big John McCarthy's book.This is pure, no-holds-barred MMA history from one of the sport's original street fighters and pioneers.If you want the real stories behind early UFC, the men who actually lived it, and zero corporate filter, this is essential viewing.Subscribe & hit the bell for more legendary interviews preserving mixed martial arts history. Drop your thoughts on Tito's book in the comments.0:00 start 0:49 MMA history podcast intro1:22 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:48 interview start 2:43 Tito Ortiz in the hospital 3:28 Prologue about sniffing glue 7:54 thoughts after meeting Tito Ortiz 10:50 Tito Ortiz requesting for 205lb weight class 13:38 running into Wanderlei Silva 17:46 Tito Ortiz receiving hand picked opponents 22:49 Tito Ortiz screwing over Dana White 26:08 mother becoming “Lady of the evening” 28:31 Tito Ortiz stealing a blank check book 31:51 Tito Ortiz stealing from Tanks home 34:20 becoming financially stable 36:35 1st book review  37:47 arrested for stealing a car 40:09 Tito Ortiz amateur wrestling career43:35 2nd book review 45:25 wrestling coach Paul Herrera  48:15 stealing “the Huntington Beach bad boy” name 52:15 3rd book review 53:50 Tito Ortiz training with Tank Abbott 57:17 Tank Abbott athletic background 59:04 learning how to wrestle 1:04:45 4th book review 1:07:17 advice from Tank Abbott to Tito Ortiz 1:10:56 street fight rumor with John Matua 1:16:22 5th book review 1:17:17 Tito Ortiz getting over on people 1:21:16 Tito Ortiz bringing hard work ethic to training 1:25:44 Tito Ortiz moving out of California 1:27:54 Reaching out for money to pay for attorney 1:34:05 Tito Ortiz blackballed from the UFC 1:36:44 Confronted over stollen golf clubs 1:44:50 Tito Ortiz caught stealing a bike 1:49:51 using Tank Abbotts influence to get back in the UFC1:51:08 interactions with Tito Ortiz’s mom 1:52:52 thoughts on fighter taking steroids 1:55:43 John McCartny upset when people response 2:00:22 clearing up some statements 2:08:33 Tank Abbott vs John McCartny2:14:50 interview wrap up/ outro#TankAbbott #TitoOrtiz #MMAHistoryPodcast #UFC

Big Sexy Sean McCorkle Part 2 - UFC Exit, Monte Cox, Steroids, Wild Post-UFC Fights & More | Episode 333Big Sexy Sean McCorkle returns for an even more unfiltered Part 2. Shawn opens up about his controversial UFC departure after Joe Silva’s warnings about his tweets, the “risk vs reward” conversation, and his raw farewell message. He dives deep into his relationship with manager Monty Cox, handshake deals, pay-per-view points battles, and behind-the-scenes UFC politics with Dana White, the Fertittas, and discretionary bonuses.Sean shares hilarious and chaotic post-UFC stories: the legendary Mike Hayes fight hype prank that hit Yahoo Sports, last-minute opponent negotiations, cutting to 285 on Winstrol/Anavar, the Cameron Befort (not Vitor Belfort) finish, and a wild post-fight “Fidel Castro / Free Cuba” shoutout in Miami. He also discusses steroid cycles, weight cuts, near-misses with Jason Guida, Bellator dealings, and memorable run-ins with Travis Brown, Matt Mitrione, Brendan Schaub, and more.Plus: the WWE offer, pro wrestling stories, family life, his son’s comedy ambitions, and why he has zero regrets living life on his own terms.Drop your questions for Part 3 in the comments — we’re bringing Big Sexy back!Subscribe for more early UFC, EliteXC, Cage Rage, and regional MMA history deep dives.The MMA History Podcast preserves raw, untold stories from the pioneers who built the sport.0:00 start0:43 MMA history podcast intro 1:15 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:31 interview start 2:00 getting recognized internationally4:27 departing from the UFC7:41 UFC becoming anti free speech 10:54 dealings with Monte Cox 14:42 thoughts on Dana White 15:55 UFC not paying fighters for public appearances19:45 looking for fights after UFC release20:52 issues with Sam Hoger 22:14 hyping up fight with Mike Hayes “ canceled bout” 32:41 offered fight with Tony Lopez 33:31 negotiating fight with Cameron Befort 39:37 Sean McCorkle vs Cameron Befort 39:47 controversial post fight interview41:58 understanding fight capabilities 45:10 bad experience with the Schmo46:29 travis Brown story52:32 Sean McCorkle vs Alex Rozman54:03 turning down Hollywood producers56:22 getting an offer from the WWE 57:35 meeting professional wrestlers at signings1:00:56 talking to Alex Rozman after fight 1:04:05 sending Alex Rozman money for commissary1:07:06 UFC refusing to let Sean McCorkle return 1:08:42 the Fertitta brothers ties to the Mob1:10:15 Sean McCorkle vs Justin Grizzard1:12:34 interactions with Alex Trujillo 1:14:12 Sean McCorkle vs Richard White 1:16:01 Pat Curran vs Joe Warren “bad stoppage” 1:19:29 Sean McCorkle vs Christian Morecraft 1:21:51 Joe Silva refusing to book local fighters1:23:57 receiving front row tickets from Dana White 1:28:14 next chapter of fight career 1:29:38 Sean McCorkle’s son pursuing comedy 1:31:11 roasting Brandon Schaub online 1:36:36 issues with hosting a podcast 1:39:03 having unbelievable stories1:43:03 interview wrap up  1:43:13 outro/ closing thoughts#MMAHistoryPodcast #UFC #MMA #MontyCox #JoeSilva #UFCFighters #SteroidsInMMA #FighterStories #CombatSports

MMA History Podcast #332: Marcus Davis "The Irish Hand Grenade" – TUF 2, UFC Wars, Supernatural Eye Healing & Street Life In this explosive episode, we sit down with former UFC welterweight contender and boxing standout Marcus Davis, the Irish Hand Grenade. Marcus delivers one of our most raw and unforgettable interviews of the year, opening up about his brutal upbringing in Maine, brushes with the juvenile justice system, family trauma, and the darker characters from the boxing world — including surprising mafia ties and Whitey Bulger connections.He details his casting for The Ultimate Fighter Season 2, a near career-ending torn retina that miraculously healed in what he describes as a supernatural event (complete with Dana White's stunned reaction), his transition from boxer to complete MMA fighter, and his exciting early UFC run. Marcus also shares wild TUF house stories with Jorge Gurgel, Melvin Guillard, Rashad Evans, and more — plus insights on training with Matt Hughes, Rich Franklin, and his intense rivalry with "The Muscle."Marcus recounts his rough childhood spent in survival mode, how he broke the generational cycle for his kids, his boxing roots and early MMA journey with Tim Sylvia, the full TUF 2 casting drama and house life, his UFC debut fights, shoulder injuries, and the seven-fight win streak that followed. He also dives into encounters with organized crime figures and the survival instincts that kept him alive through it all.This is Part 1 — Marcus has already agreed to Part 2, so drop your questions in the comments (he reads them!).If you love raw MMA history, behind-the-scenes UFC stories, fighter comebacks, and untold tales from the golden era, this is essential listening.Subscribe for more deep-dive interviews with the legends who built the sport. Like, comment, and share your favorite Marcus Davis moment or what we should ask in Part 2!MMA History Podcast – Preserving the real stories of mixed martial arts.

In this powerful episode of the MMA History Podcast, host Mike Davis sits down with Mark Schultz, 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist, three-time NCAA champion, and one of the earliest crossover stars from wrestling into mixed martial arts.Mark opens up about his legendary wrestling journey — from high school state champion to dominating college wrestling at UCLA and the University of Oklahoma, his iconic NCAA finals battles including the legendary 1982 match versus Ed Banach, and his unforgettable 1984 Olympic run where he broke the number one ranked wrestler’s arm en route to gold. He also shares rare stories about his brother Dave Schultz, the Foxcatcher tragedy, and the lasting impact of John du Pont’s murder of Dave.Mark discusses his introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Rickson Gracie, early MMA insights and training with Pedro Sauer, behind-the-scenes stories from the wild formative era of combat sports, and the Schultz brothers’ unique wrestling style, mindset, and unbreakable bond.A must-watch for wrestling fans, MMA historians, and anyone interested in the real Foxcatcher story, Olympic wrestling in the 1980s, and the roots of modern MMA.If you enjoyed this episode, drop a like, comment your favorite moment, and subscribe for more rare interviews with the pioneers who built MMA. New episodes every week!Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram Thank You for your support

Episode 330 – The Rise of Cage Rage with Andy Gear (Part 1)In this first episode of our Cage Rage series, the MMA History Podcast sits down with co-founder Andy Geer for a rare, in-depth look at the promotion that changed UK MMA forever.From running their very first event in a local leisure centre to landing a television deal by their second show, Andy reveals how they built a global brand on a shoestring budget. Discover the rise of British legends like Michael Bisping, Brad Pickett, and the notorious Lee Murray, who fought his final MMA bout for Cage Rage before his infamous high-profile bank heists.Learn how Cage Rage took a Brazilian fighter with a spotty Pride record in Anderson Silva and, in just two appearances, delivered the future UFC GOAT to the world. Andy shares wild stories from events 1 through 9, including bringing in international talent, chaotic early fights, Royce Gracie refereeing, political pushback, venue battles, and the raw, unfiltered energy of the early 2000s UK MMA scene.He discusses starting Cage Rage with zero experience, landing Sky TV and building an international audience, the Anderson Silva versus Lee Murray weigh-in chaos, Michael Bisping’s early arrogance and rise, along with key figures like Jeremy Bailey, Mark Epstein, Paul Jenkins and more, plus the crazy backstage culture and growth pains that shaped the promotion.A must-watch for any MMA fan interested in the golden era of European MMA, UK pioneers, and the wild history behind one of the most influential promotions outside the UFC.Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Thank You for your support

Ant Evans, former UFC Head of PR during the golden era, returns to the MMA History Podcast for episode 329. In this explosive 2+ hour conversation, Ant delivers an unfiltered look at 2009 — the year mixed martial arts truly exploded.He breaks down the Brock Lesnar UFC 200 surprise return, the Ariel Helwani leak that rocked the company, Dana White’s denials, and the internal accusations that followed. Ant reveals how managers were the real source of leaks, the brutal realities of PR horse-trading, and the dramatic cultural shift from the close-knit Zuffa family atmosphere to today’s TKO corporate money-grab era.You’ll hear legendary behind-the-scenes stories including the full details on GSP vs BJ Penn and the infamous Greasegate at UFC 94, Dan Henderson vs Rich Franklin in Dublin, the chaotic UFC 99 event in Cologne and battles with the German athletic commission, Michael Bisping’s rise, Marcus Davis and the “Irish Hand Grenade” nickname controversy, UFC 100 as the biggest card in company history, Kimbo Slice negotiations, the Hector Lombard signing, and much more. Ant also shares his candid thoughts on John Fitch, Dana White’s evolving role, and why 2009 felt like the UFC could do no wrong.Hosted by the MMA Detective Mike Davis and co-host Joey Venti. If you love raw UFC history, insider stories from the golden era, Brock Lesnar, GSP, Greasegate, Ariel Helwani, Dana White, and the real story behind MMA’s breakout year, this is essential listening.Subscribe for weekly deep dives into the untold history of mixed martial arts. New episodes drop every week.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction0:54 interview start 1:00 Ariel Helwani spoiling Brock Lesnar return 4:27 accused of leaking info to Ariel Helwani 8:02 trading information for publicity11:10 Dana White final say on fights 13:37 money grub era of the UFC 17:15 Michael Bisping negotiations 21:04 Rich Franklin vs Dan Henderson O2 arena 25:16 Marcus Davis vs Chris Lytle 28:52 UFC company party’s 31:41 Company Morale at the UFC 34:22 dealings with Jon Fitch36:35 Karo Parisyan career decline 37:10 BJ Penn vs GSP 38:35 Grease gate controversy 43:50 Michael Bisping no showing TUF fight45:24 how illegal greasing works 49:07 UFC signing Hector Lombard 52:06 issues with Canadas athletic commission 53:59 struggles bringing UFC 99 to Germany 1:03:10 Dan Hardy vs Marcus Davis 1:04:39 UFC golden era 1:06:28 TUF USA vs UK1:07:10 secrecy for UFC 1001:12:12 UFC 100 event 1:15:36 Teddy Atlas and Mark Kellerman 1:20:30 Max Kellerman post fight interviews 1:24:09 Dan Henderson vs Rich Franklin 2 “cancelled” event 1:27:19 early UFC fight night cards vs Modern 1:28:23 UFC stars from the UK1:33:38 Shogun Rua paid bonus from bad decision 1:34:00 Chael Sonnen vs Yushin Okami 1:35:16 UFC 1061:35:29 TUF 10 finale 1:37:12 Kimbo Slice being a viral sensation 1:39:25 UFC being undervalued 1:42:49 MVP fighter pay 1:45:03 interview wrap up/ outroFollow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistoryp...Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8Ksfq...Apple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube    / @mmahistorypodcast  Outro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support

MMA History Podcast #328: Rudy Silva Prison Interview – The Cocaine King of San DiegoIn this raw and unfiltered prison interview, former fight promoter, City Boxing and Alliance MMA gym owner, and self-proclaimed Cocaine King of San Diego Rudy Silva opens up to Mike Davis like never before.Rudy details his traumatic childhood, early days at City Boxing alongside Brandon Vera, Dean Lister, KJ Nunes, and Tyrone Glover, launching Alliance MMA with Vera, and his deep connections in the San Diego MMA scene. He speaks candidly about his relationships with Dominic Cruz, Jocko Willink, Dan Bilzerian, Justin Bieber, and the chaotic lifestyle that pulled him into the Tijuana Cartel world.From gym politics and embezzlement drama to cartel dealings, robberies, a high-profile nightclub stabbing, bipolar struggles mixed with heavy cocaine use, family estrangement, and life in federal prison while appealing his sentence, Rudy holds nothing back.This is a gripping, no-holds-barred look at the dark underbelly of early San Diego MMA — sex, drugs, violence, power, and regret from someone who lived it all at the highest levels of both the fight game and the streets.A must-listen episode of The Other Side of the Cage prison interview series.The MMA History Podcast is the only show dedicated 100% to preserving mixed martial arts history through interviews and stories from the men who lived it.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:33 Joey Venti’s guest introduction2:16 interview start 2:25 current life/5:28 going through a break up 7:09 having a rough upbringing 10:16 becoming involved in drug distribution 12:01 selling memberships for City boxing 15:58 Urijah Faber and Mark Dion incident 19:07 kickboxer Alex Gong19:53 Coach Oleg Larson21:18 Boxing coach Manny Melchor22:37 Coach Ernesto Martinez 25:51 kickboxer Danny Steele26:04 leaving City boxing 28:54 opening up a gym 31:56 renting rooms out to fighters 34:29 introduction to the drug market 42:33 working for Total Combat 44:05 fight politics in Mexico 47:00 opening an Alliance Jiu jitsu gym 51:29 falling out with Brandon Vera 54:52 56:31 relationship with Jocko Willink 1:02:51 bible app with Michael Chandler1:05:04 transitioning from coach to drug distribution 1:09:42 stabbing at a nightclub 1:16:48 argument with Chris Leben1:21:18 Elias Gios1:24:21 training Dan Bilzerian1:26:30 robbed for $285,000 1:29:52 Kickboxer Rob Kaman 1:30:10 relationship with Dominick Cruz1:33:44 falling out with Dominick Cruz 1:38:20 relationship with Dean Lister 1:40:38 Eric Nicksick1:42:05 process of getting caught up 1:45:27 outro/ closing thoughtsFollow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support

Jared Shaw returns to the MMA History Podcast for his fourth and most revealing appearance yet, pulling back the curtain on the spectacular rise and sudden collapse of Elite XC. As the promotion’s Vice President during its groundbreaking CBS era, Shaw was at the center of the Kimbo Slice versus Seth Petruzelli fight that many still blame for sinking the company overnight. In this unfiltered conversation with Mike Davis and Joey Venti, he sets the record straight on the real reasons behind the fall, the internal power struggles, the fight-fixing rumors, and the fighters who could have built an empire.From the Cyborg debut that stole the show to the Gina Carano era, the frantic final months, and the untold stories of what happened when the lights went out, Shaw delivers raw insight into one of MMA’s most controversial chapters and the golden opportunities the sport lost forever. This is the definitive inside account of how close Elite XC came to challenging the UFC—and why it all ended so abruptly.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction0:52 interview start 0:54 boxing memorabilia 6:19 passion for scouting talent early 7:49 concerns going into “Unfinished business” event 16:16 issues with manger Mark Dion 17:55 negotiations with KJ Noons 20:28 treating fighters and teammates fair21:23 speaking to the press for EliteXC25:42 Cris Cyborg vs Shayna Baszler 31:30 early womens MMA compared to today’s 32:36 Shayna Baszler going to WWE33:17 Jake Shields vs Nick Thompson 36:03 Nick Diaz vs Thomas Denny 40:06 Robbie Lawler vs Scott smith 40:30 SEC filing needed $3.8M to keep doors open 43:13 boxing promoters going extinct 45:50 MMA and boxing pay scales 48:24 Chuck Champion announces $1M in funding 49:50 Announced a partnership with Affliction 51:32 experience with Todd Beard 52:38 EliteXC Heat event55:45 Ken Shamrock and Kimbo slice weigh ins 58:04 phone call about Ken Shamrock injury 1:00:37 realizing Ken Shamrock did not want to fight 1:03:14 offering Seth Petruzelli fight with Kimbo slice 1:05:23 Seth Petruzelli false claims of fight fixing 1:06:59 Ken shamrock upset at Jared Shaws reaction 1:09:15 offering extra money to Kimbo Slice 1:11:39 Benji Radach vs Ninja Rua 1:12:19 Gina Carano vs Kelly Kobold1:12:33 Andrei Arlovski vs Roy Nelson 1:13:00 Jake Shields vs Paul Daley1:13:55 Kimbo Slice vs Seth Petruzelli announcement 1:15:41 issues during Kimbo Slice walk out 1:17:53 viewership for EliteXC Heat 1:20:17 allegedly attacking Dan Freeman 1:21:18 Frank Shamrock asking for Kimbo Slice fight 1:25:13 reaction to Kimbo Slice loss 1:26:00 aftermath from EliteXC heat event 1:27:39 Seth Petruzelli infamous radio interview 1:28:22 thoughts on TJ Thompson1:31:18 being told not to acknowledge negative press 1:33:18 issues with manager Kim Couture1:38:44 Scouting EliteXC ring girls 1:40:19 Kim Courure vs Alexis Dufresne1:42:14 realizing EliteXC is finished 1:42:42 announcing the closing of EliteXC1:44:18 bids for buying StrikeForce 1:45:30 EliteXC being the last true competitor to UFC 1:49:03 MVP vs UFC 1:52:17 interview wrap up 1:54:19 outroFollow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Thank You for your support

In this episode of the MMA History Podcast, MMA Detective Mike Davis and Joey Venti sit down with retired UFC heavyweight Sean “Big Sexy” McCorkle for one of the wildest, funniest, and most honest interviews in the show’s history.From selling appliances for crazy money to becoming a viral internet troll on The Underground Forum, Sean holds nothing back. He breaks down his infamous first-day submission of Marcelo Montero, his early barn-burner fights at the 8 Second Saloon, training with Tom Erickson and Dave Herman, and the legendary Matt Hughes book review that took over the internet.You’ll hear the full story behind his UFC debut armbar victory over Mark Hunt, the chaotic co-main event with 7-foot Stephan Struve, the insane puppy-breeding saga, the meth-head home invasion, and why he walked away from millions to chase fights. Plus, silver investments gone wrong, back surgery horror stories, and the real reason the UFC never knew what to do with him.This is classic MMA History Podcast gold: raw, hilarious, and packed with never-before-heard stories from one of the most entertaining big men to ever step in the Octagon.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction0:53 interview start 0:58 plugs/ promotions2:11 women breaking into puppy mill 5:12 losing money on buying silver 6:01 beginnings in MMA 6:52 scammed by Marcello Monteiro 14:05 choosing to train with James Clingerman 17:57 Chris Lytle’s unorthodox fight style20:51 refusing to train in the Gi 22:20 Sean McCorkle vs Steve Paulson24:11 picking the Nickname “The Hater”25:09 training with Tom Erickson30:42 training partner Dave Herman 34:16 Sean McCorkle vs Jason Johnson34:35 Sean McCorkle vs Robert Hogan37:27 Sean McCorkle vs Justin Wade38:41 Sean McCorkle vs Jeremy Norton41:48 joining the underground forums 46:29 Sean McCorkle vs James Ferguson46:43 notorious Matt Hughes book review 52:45 taking 2 years off for back surgery53:28 going through a major divorce 56:47 Jason Guida vs Alex Trujillo controversy59:30 Primetime Fighting Championship losing money 1:02:40 confronted by Jason Guida and Alex Trujillo 1:05:35 finding an arch nemesis on the underground1:06:57 terminally ill grandmother promo 1:13:22 interactions with Brett Rogers 1:14:43 thoughts on Bruce Buffer 1:17:49 thoughts on Dominick Cruz1:19:08 Johnathon Ivey’s fight résumé1:20:01 Sean McCorkle vs Bobby Favors1:22:08 getting a call from the UFC1:25:41 fighting Mark Hunt in UFC debut1:27:43 submitting Mark Hunt1:29:10 renegotiations with the UFC 1:31:56 having to cut weight for fight 1:34:49 receiving celebrity status after UFC victory1:36:11 Sean McCorkle vs Stephan Struve1:42:13 receiving text from Joe Silva 1:44:22 pay for UFC 3 video game 1:48:27 pay for UFC trading cards 1:50:00 getting released from the UFC 1:50:37 taking steroids during fight career 1:52:24 fat burner medication story 1:57:49 Bob Sapp early peptide knowledge 2:00:11 2nd half of career 2:02:11 interview wrap up 2:03:36 outro/ closing thoughtsFollow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper- Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support

MMA Detective Mike Davis and co-host Joey Venti sit down once again with early MMA legend and the original Huntington Beach Bad Boy, David "Tank" Abbott. This is Tank's third appearance on the show, delivering his signature no-holds-barred perspective on the raw, untamed early days of mixed martial arts.In this wide-ranging conversation, Tank addresses viral social media moments including his legendary 600-pound bench press (spotted by former UFC executive David Isaacs) and his story of a young, angry Strickland trying to fight him in a bar, only for Tank to take the kid under his wing for the night. He also shares candid recollections from his UFC run, WCW transition, training with John Marsh, fights against Frank Mir, Kimo Leopoldo, and Wesley "Cabbage" Correira, plus his thoughts on the creation of the light heavyweight division, backstage politics, and the evolution of the sport.Straight from one of MMA's most polarizing and entertaining pioneers, this episode is packed with firsthand history, strong opinions, and stories you won't hear anywhere else. If you want the unfiltered truth about the men who built mixed martial arts, this is essential listening.The MMA History Podcast is dedicated to preserving the sport's rich heritage through in-depth interviews and obsessive research. Hundreds of episodes, thousands of hours of documentation—all conducted by the most dedicated mind in the business.Subscribe for more early MMA stories direct from the fighters who lived them.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:49 interview start 1:36 600 LB bench press video 3:10 Sean Strickland trying to fight Tank Abbott5:11 called and alcoholic by John McCarthy7:35 thoughts on the Vitor Belfort9:54 how Tito Ortiz made it to the UFC12:28 fighters pretending to be tough guys14:58 talking Authority figures with John McCarthy18:57 Dana White managing Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell21:15 Tito Ortiz selling merchandise at high school gyms 23:46 Dana White introducing weight classes26:26 Tito Ortiz responsible for 205lb weight class 27:53 Tito Ortiz avoiding fight with Babalu31:13 thoughts after wrestling career 32:53 trolled by a bouncer 37:28 Paul Herrera accused of stealing cigars 40:59 leaked Paul Herrera instructionals 44:48 Paul Herrera vs Kazushi Sakuraba49:58 why TUF was a success 52:46 Tank Abbott vs Frank Mir 58:18 career downfall after Frank Mir fight 1:01:17 Dana White related to Frank Mir rumors 1:01:43 training with Phil Baroni1:03:11 Tito Ortiz almost hit by a bus 1:04:37 not invited to Tito Ortiz’s wedding 1:07:24 1:08:30 Tito Ortiz working at Spanky’s adult book store 1:10:07 false reels about Tank Abbott 1:12:15 Tank Abbott vs Kimo Leopoldo1:14:08 flying to Costa Rica after fight 1:20:00 interactions with Wes simms 1:22:21 connecting with John Marsh 1:26:06 Tank Abbott vs Cabbage 1:38:08 denied UFC return 1:42:50 UFC HOF fights that are snubbed 1:45:17 different phases of the UFC 1:47:34 UFC milking fans out of their money 1:51:23 relationship with Ken Shamrock 1:52:19 Paula Romero 1:54:24 Tank Abbott vs Cabbage rematch 1:59:03 fights at after parties 2:01:36 Tank Abbott Book series2:03:35 Ranger Scott 2:04:33 Mark Kerr in the UFC HOF 2:05:16 Tank Abbott movie 2:09:26 Tito Ortiz and Kevin Randleman story 2:12:36 Tank Abbott and Tito Ortiz incompatibility2:14:25 John McCarthy shoving Tedd Williams 2:17:00 John McCarthy on food fighting show 2:17:37 Walter Fox 2:18:45 interview wrap up/outroApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support

Join the MMA Detective Mike Davis and co-host Joey Venti for an exclusive deep dive with Paul “The Hitman” Herrera — Division I All-American wrestler (Nebraska, 142 lbs), Tito Ortiz’s high school wrestling coach, and core member of the legendary Tank Abbott crew in Huntington Beach.In this raw, no-holds-barred conversation, Herrera recounts the Wild West days of MMA: his Olympic Trials run, training with Mark Schultz at BYU, the infamous UFC 6 elevator incident with Pat Smith, dojo-storming Alan Gomez alongside Tank Abbott and Eddie Ruiz, cornering Tito Ortiz’s UFC 13 debut, his own UFC 8 fight against Gary Goodridge, and his bout with Kazushi Sakuraba in Japan. He also details promoting the underground Hitman Fight Series and his current coaching at Huntington Beach Ultimate Training Center.The MMA History Podcast is the only show 100% dedicated to preserving mixed martial arts history through first-hand interviews with the men who lived it.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction0:51 interview start 0:54 plugs/ promotions1:33 recruited to California for wrestling4:02 early UFC matchmaking 5:17 Olympic training center for wrestling7:18 taking 2nd place at the Olympic open10:07 scarce info online for Paul Herrera11:16 coaching Tito Ortiz in high school13:38 meeting Tank Abbott for the first time18:25 relationship with Kimo Leopoldo20:29 Kimo Leopoldo’s reputation 22:02 interactions with Joe Son22:40 Randy Ziegler 23:10 relationship with Tito Ortiz 25:13 Dojo storming Allan Góes gym30:46 animosity towards Tank Abbott at UFC 634:08 Tank Abbott vs John Matua34:49 impression on Dave Thomas 35:50 Tank Abbott vs Paul Varelans 36:46 Oleg Taktarov vs Anthony Macias fixed fight38:45 Tank Abbott vs Oleg Taktarov39:22 Pat Smith backstage incident 43:43 running into Pat Smith in elevator 48:00 accused of stealing from Bob Meyrowitz 49:17 putting on Hitman fight events 51:09 relationship with Mark Schultz 54:45 training with Mark Schultz 56:27 Rickson Gracie meeting with Mark Schultz58:20 invited to fight at UFC 859:27 Paul Herrera vs Gary Goodridge1:00:24 training tape leaked to Gary Goodridge 1:02:17 using substances before Gary Goodridge fight 1:06:43 Refusing hospital treatment after UFC event 1:09:36 Tank Abbott and Allan Góes incident 1:11:24 UFC 9 attendance 1:12:07 preparing Tito Ortiz for UFC debut 1:13:40 Tito Ortiz vs Guy Mezger1:17:45 Tito Ortiz first MMA fight1:18:27 Tank Abbott fallout with John McCarthy1:21:46 Tito Ortiz paid under the table for UFC debut 1:24:53 issues with the Brazilians at UFC after party 1:28:01 Paul Herrera vs Kazushi Sakuraba1:35:18 the beginning of Japanese hijinks in MMA1:37:21 Yakuza involvement in fights 1:39:10 John Lober vs Ryushi Yanagisawa1:39:59 experience with John Lober1:41:10 Aaron Brink 1:42:24 hosting underground MMA events1:44:33 first impression of Aaron Brink1:45:54 choosing to get sober 1:47:07 career highlights1:48:07 experience with Sean Strickland1:51:29 interview wrap up1:53:26 outro/ closing thoughts Subscribe for more. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support

Join hosts Mike Davis and Joey Venti on the MMA History Podcast for Episode #323 with John "The Natural" Alessio. The former UFC Welterweight title challenger, 50-fight veteran, and Canadian MMA pioneer discusses his remarkable career from outlaw shows in British Columbia to the bright lights of the UFC, PRIDE, King of the Cage, Pancrase, and Super Brawl.Alessio turned pro as a teenager after spotting a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu bumper sticker at a gas station. He shares wild early stories, including no-rules biker-backed events in a Sikh temple (with mid-fight police interventions and headbutts allowed), mismatched weight bouts in Japan, altitude struggles in tournaments, training at the Shark Tank with Ken Shamrock and legends like Pete Williams, and his UFC title shot against Pat Miletich at UFC 26 at age 20, making him the youngest fighter ever to compete for a UFC championship.Now a veteran with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on the FBI fugitive apprehension task force, Alessio also talks police jiu-jitsu training, life after fighting, and the raw, unregulated era of the sport he helped build. Packed with OG tales of Jason Height, Eddie Millis, John Peretti, Stefan Patry, Shawn Tompkins, and more.If you love early MMA history, Canadian pioneers, and unfiltered fighter stories, this is essential listening.Subscribe for more interviews and deep dives preserving mixed martial arts history.0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:54 interview start 0:57 current life/ career 3:49 50 fight club members from Canada 4:33 training accident with Javier Vasquez 6:45 Jason Heit9:11 beginnings in MMA10:34 Bikers supporting early MMA in Canada15:06 Ultimate Battle 4 man tournament 16:38 Adam Ryan 17:29 John Alessio vs David Harris19:33 Extreme Challenge 4 man tournament 23:39 dealings with Bill Mahood24:21 Kalib Starnes vs Nate Quarry 26:29 connection to Pancrase27:06 meeting Phyllis Lee 27:27 meeting Eddy Millis in Japan 28:04 John Alessio vs Kosei Kubota30:51 quitting Job to be a full time fighter 32:37 early support from friends 33:29 John Alessio vs Jason Meaders34:23 never turning down any fights 37:52 John Alessio vs Egan Inoue41:42 John Alessio vs Jay R Palmer43:14 John Alessio vs John Chrisostomo43:39 partying with the Lions Den 46:42 Lions Den initiation 49:03 John Alessio vs Pat Miletich52:40 UFC not acknowledging John Perretti 55:32 parents trusting fight career 58:14 arm barred by Pat Miletich 59:35 John Alessio vs Joe Doerkson1:00:34 getting cut from the UFC after title fight 1:03:29 Andy Anderson story after UFC event 1:08:34 declining involvement with the Bikers1:12:52 cancelled bout with Yves Edwards1:15:24 John Alessio vs Thomas Deny1:16:44 starting bad seed incorporated 1:17:59 dealings with Bobby Hoffman 1:19:07 Aaron Brink story 1:20:56 Bobby Hoffman story 1:24:40 fighting in the early MMA era 1:27:46 training camps with Billy Rush 1:28:53 Jeremy Horn not self promoting 1:31:08 John Alessio vs Sean Pierson1:31:37 interactions with Stephan Patry1:33:01 John Alessio vs Jason Black1:37:00 head kick KO to Sean Pierson 1:38:59 becoming a well rounded fighter 1:40:21 developing jiu jitsu with Javier Vasquez 1:41:17 interactions with Rafiel Torre1:42:58 John Alessio vs Chris Brennan 1:46:52 John Alessio vs Eiji Mitsuoka1:49:16 John Alessio vs Jason Black1:50:40 John Alessio vs Jason Black1:51:56 training with Karo parisyan1:52:57 John Alessio vs Ronald Jhun1:55:25 John Alessio vs Jonathon Goulet1:57:46 coached by Shawn Tompkins2:01:10 partying with Bas Rutten 2:01:40 John Alessio vs Shannon Ritch2:02:50 training with Dan Henderson and Matt Lindland 2:04:12 interview wrap up 2:05:23 cancelled bout with Joey Villasenior2:08:02 cancelled bout with Nick Diaz 2:10:56 outro/ closing thoughts#MMAHistory #JohnAlessio #UFC #EarlyMMA

Jake "Irish" O'Brien joins the MMA History Podcast for episode 322. The former Purdue wrestler and UFC veteran recounts his journey from dominating Indiana high school wrestling as a three-time state champion to becoming one of the most promising young heavyweights in early UFC history.O'Brien shares rare stories from the Midwest MMA scene, including his wild amateur debut in a Cage Rage tournament against a one-armed opponent, early pro fights under Keith Palmer at venues like the 82nd Saloon and Madtown Throwdown, and training alongside legends such as Chris Liddell and Alex Stiebling at Integrated Fighting. He details his explosive UFC run, highlighted by a standout TKO victory over Pride veteran Heath Herring, and memorable bouts against elite competition: Andrei Arlovski, Cain Velasquez, and a young Jon Jones at UFC 100.The conversation covers O'Brien's wrestling roots, his identical twin brother's boxing background, the challenges of balancing college athletics with unsanctioned fights, the evolution of regional MMA in Indiana, and life after the Octagon, including coaching at Top Level gym in Indianapolis and his current work as a rural mail carrier. He also opens up about personal challenges, family resilience, and the support he received during difficult times.Hosted by the MMA Detective Mike Davisand Joey Venti, this episode preserves the unfiltered history of mixed martial arts through the eyes of a true pioneer who faced multiple future champions and helped build the sport's Midwest foundation.Listen for insights into early UFC matchmaking, the raw intensity of 2000s regional shows, and the lasting impact of wrestling in MMA.Subscribe for more interviews and stories direct from the men who lived MMA history.#MMAHistory #JakeOBrien #UFC #Wrestling

Send us Fan MailIn this special international episode, UFC veteran Xavier Foupa-Pokam — known as Professor X — takes listeners on his unforgettable road to the UFC. A true pioneer of French MMA and one of the earliest members of the Snake Team under trainer Cyril Diabate, Foupa-Pokam details his transition from traditional karate to Muay Thai and mixed martial arts in the early 2000s, when the sport was illegal in France. Fighters trained in secret, competed under the guise of other disciplines, and often faced law enforcement interference at events.With a professional career spanning more than 50 bouts and a verified record of 32-22-0, Professor X became one of the most traveled fighters of his era, competing primarily as the B-side in promotions across Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and beyond. He shares stories from legendary events including Cage Rage in the UK, Jungle Fight in Brazil, and international tournaments, as well as his preparation with Dan Henderson’s Team Quest in the United States to mimic Anderson Silva. The conversation covers his UFC appearances at UFC 97 against Denis Kang and UFC 98 against Drew McFedries, plus memorable matchups against Paul Daley, Hayato Sakurai, Paulo Coelho, and more.Foupa-Pokam also discusses the challenges of building French MMA from the ground up, the outlaw atmosphere of the early days, his 11 amateur fights before turning pro, and insights into fellow Cameroonian-French fighter Francis Ngannou. This episode highlights the passion, resilience, and global experiences that defined one of MMA’s most dedicated journeymen.The MMA History Podcast documents the sport we love through hundreds of interviews and thousands of hours of research conducted by the most obsessed minds in the business. Subscribe for new episodes every week featuring the men who lived the early days of MMA.0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:54 interview start 1:14 part of the foundation for French combat sports5:51 Karate fighters transitioning to MMA8:56 Golden Trophy events 10:06 Francis Ngannou vs Zoumana Cisse15:33 training before first fight 17:18 illegal amateur bouts in France 19:09 issues with Law enforcement 20:58 coming into fights as a B side 25:31 Xavier Foupa vs Nelson Monteiro27:00 Xavier Foupa vs David Pierre29:49 Xavier Foupa vs Paul Williamson31:02 Xavier Foupa vs Matt Ewin32:29 research on opponents before fight 34:10 Xavier Foupa vs Ferene Gancs36:09 Xavier Foupa vs Poulo Coelho37:47 French fighters vs BJJ black belts 41:52 Cage Rage parties behind the scenes 46:42 Xavier Foupa vs Martin Kampmann48:53 Xavier Foupa vs John Oskar52:33 Xavier Foupa vs Paul Daily54:25 coming off 3 losses 55:13 Xavier Foupa vs Jose Mata59:40 Michael Bisping vs Cyrille Diabate 1:02:08 Xavier Foupa vs Itamar Rosa1:03:15 Xavier Foupa vs Ken Hamamura1:04:04 Xavier Foupa vs Hoon Kim1:06:42 Xavier Foupa vs Sol Gilbert1:10:24 Xavier Foupa vs Ryuta Sakuri1:13:08 Xavier Foupa vs Alex Reid1:15:38 interactions with Lee Murray 1:16:57 Xavier Foupa vs Tom Watson1:17:28 Xavier Foupa vs Pierre Guillet1:18:00 Xavier Foupa vs Murilo Rua1:18:54 Cyrille Diabate vs Murilo Rua 1:19:44 Far Eastern Modern Pancration Federation 1:26:19 dealings with Wallid Ismail1:27:03 training with Dan Henderson at Team Quest 1:30:12 getting a phone call from the UFC 1:31:51 interview wrap up 1:35:28 outro/ closing thoughtsSubscribe to the MMA History Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastDiscord:https://discord.gg/s3mV6wyNgvFacebook: https://www.facebookSupport the show

Send a textIn episode 320 of the MMA History Podcast, host Mike Davis and Joey Venti sit down with UFC veteran and The Ultimate Fighter season 3 finalist Josh Haynes for an in-depth interview about his road to the Ultimate Fighter. As a former mixed martial arts fighter with a professional record of 14 wins and 11 losses, Haynes shares his gritty journey from starting MMA in 2002 as a 330-pound amateur in Oregon's Full Contact Fighting Federation to competing at the highest levels in the UFC.Post-retirement, Haynes transitioned to law enforcement with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 2009, where he now serves as a sergeant. He details his heroic actions during the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, saving a wounded rookie officer under fire and earning the Medal of Valor for exceptional bravery. This episode explores themes of resilience, survival mentality, and life after MMA, offering valuable insights for aspiring fighters on planning beyond the octagon.0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:52 interview start 0:54 truth about fight career 4:02 beginnings in MMA 5:43 deciding to become a fighter 10:57 15:03 thoughts on Robert Follis 19:14 Phil Baroni Sparring incident with Evan Tanner 22:40 opportunities after fighting 26:00 Josh Haynes vs Larry Vandervort 30:24 reflecting after first loss 31:49 Josh Haynes vs Josh Bennett 34:15 taking fights consistently 35:20 Gina Carano 35:52 Josh Haynes vs Carl Pope 39:30 coach Shawn Tompkins 41:16 Josh Haynes vs Jordan Ramos 43:27 training with the “White Buffalo Warriors” 44:12 Matt Hume 44:46 Josh Haynes vs Jim Pope 48:57 riding a 7 fight win streak 51:35 fighters from the Pacific Northwest 53:04 Josh Haynes vs Jerry Vrbanovic 57:19 Josh Haynes vs Vince Lucero 59:20 interactions with John Alessio 1:01:56 Ulysses Gomez Jiu jitsu 1:05:08 fighters transitioning to Law enforcement 1:08:00 realizing Team Quest was ending 1:12:04 Scrubbing information off the internet 1:13:44 heroic during Las Vegas mass Shooting1:26:46 Josh Haynes vs Jake Villanueva 1:28:19 Josh Haynes vs Carlos Garcia 1:29:51 Josh Haynes vs Marcos Oliveira 1:31:04 Josh Haynes vs Horace Spencer 1:32:29 taking fights with injuries 1:34:05 Josh Haynes vs Cedric Marks 1:36:32 trying out for TUF 1:39:09 Matt Horwich not making the TUF cast 1:42:47 Team Quest teammates in TUF final1:44:01 Josh Haynes vs Tate Fletcher 1:45:22 Josh Haynes vs Jesse Forbes 1:46:23 Josh Haynes vs Michael Bisping 1:50:56 talks with Joe Silva 1:55:32 evolution of MMA turning to point fighting 1:59:17 interview wrap up 2:03:53 outro/ closing thoughts Please follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetSupport the show

Send a textTank Abbott's WCW years in Part 2 of our exclusive interview on theMMA History Podcast. From negotiating with Eric Bischoff over Vince McMahon, training at the Power Plant under legends like Paul Orndorff and Dusty Rhodes, to wild angles like the jacket-on-a-pole brawl with Big Al (yes, that knife moment at SuperBrawl 2000), Tank spills the unfiltered truth on backstage politics, his near-title run, and clashes with icons like Goldberg and Sid Vicious.Fact: Tank debuted in WCW on December 13, 1999, as a legit UFC heavyweight (with wins over Yoji Anjo and Hugo Duarte) brought in to feud with Goldberg, but navigated a rollercoaster of mutinies and mishaps until his 2000 release.0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:48 interview start 2:14 Tank Abbott vs Yoji Anjo 7:12 Tank Abbott being a large draw in UFC 11:50 experience fighting in Japan 15:09 Tank Abbott vs Hugo Duarte 21:39 dedicating fight to Frank Sinatra 22:45 never called out by Rickson Gracie25:11 Tank Abbott vs Pedro Rizzo27:12 incident with Pat Smith 29:28 relationship with Jeff Blatnick30:51 thoughts on Joe Rogan 36:12 rumored fight with Butterbean 37:27 issues before Frank Mir fight 41:18 where the term “Mixed martial arts” came from 46:32 Eddie Ruiz update 48:25 conversations with WCW 59:05 training at the WCW power plant 1:01:27 locker room attitude towards wrestlers 1:05:10 introduction during WCW taping 1:08:19 pushback from the WCW locker room 1:10:36 cutting a Promo on Bill Goldberg 1:12:18 plugs/ promotions 1:14:02 grabbing owner of Chicago Black Hawks 1:15:22 issues with Bob Probert 1:16:20 issues with Terry Taylor 1:19:40 advice from Sid Vicious 1:23:05 false rumors of winning WCW Title 1:28:43 Doug Dillinger 1:29:05 Jerry Flynn 1:29:33 Mark Madden 1:29:52 Chris Cruz 1:31:28 false rumored match with Mark Coleman 1:32:20 pulling out knife during match with Big Al  1:43:40 questioned before match by the locker room 1:46:11 losing wresting match to David Arquette 1:47:38 Tank Abbott vs Goldberg 1:51:32 introduced to the ICP 1:53:36 staying in shape during WCW 1:55:31 being a fan of 3 Count 1:58:44 drinking with the ICP1:59:56 released from WCW 2:02:20 dealings with Bob Sapp 2:03:26 interview wrap up 2:11:39 outro/closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textTedd Williams MMA & Gladiator Challenge Tedd Williams is a UFC veteran, grappling pioneer a national AAU Sambo champion, Gene LeBell black belt, and 7-1 pro fighter and one of the longest tenured promoters in the country.  Tedd Williams shares stories from the sport's raw early days: training with Bas Rutten, his UFC 24 main-event elbow KO over Steve Judson, co-founding King of the Cage, launching Gladiator Challenge, and building the regional scene that helped launch fighters like Urijah Faber and Charles Bennett.A deep dive into MMA's Wild West era straight from one of its true architects. 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:50 interview start 1:40 learning Sambo early on 3:36 training with Gene LeBell 5:15 training with John Perretti 6:37 interactions with John Lewis 7:28 starting friendship with Oleg Taktarov8:29 using sambo to become a better wrestler 9:26 starting Victorville Jets program 11:33 Universal above ground fighting 14:10 Antonio McKee vs John Smith 15:27 Antonio McKee gun story 17:15 owning half of KOTC at the beginning 21:09 meeting Terry Trebilcock22:39 using same venue for KOTC and Gladiator Challenge 25:24 hosting Gladiator Challenge in Colorado 26:41 Tedd Williams vs Robert Burnell 28:06 Empire fighting 29:10 Bas Rutten invitational 30:14 training Bas Rutten 33:00 Tedd Williams vs Joseph Marquez 34:46 Tedd Williams vs Travis Fulton37:30 experience with Jamie Levine 38:29 Tedd Williams vs Joe Campanella 40:25 Holiday Fight Party 47:20 Phillip Miller split from the UFC50:45 Phillip Miller vs James Zikic 52:07 Lee Murray and Tito Ortiz street fight 54:26 letter to get into ADCC 200056:46 training with Rowdy Roddy Piper57:44 Tedd Williams vs Steve Judson 1:02:08 false UFC fighter resumes 1:03:13 Tedd Williams fight camp exposed 1:05:17 cancelled bout with Andre Roberts1:06:27 friendship with Cal Worsham 1:09:37 dealing with Dan Severn 1:10:30 cross training bjj and wrestling 1:11:02 KOTC purchased by EliteXC 1:19:43 Tedd Williams vs Bill Parker 1:21:39 dealings with Bob Shamrock 1:23:01 Tony Galindo 1:23:41 Ken Shamrock backstage fight with Mark Hall 1:24:15 attending regional shows 1:25:25 pushing Tito Ortiz out of cage 1:30:05 KOTC Wet ‘N’ Wild 1:34:43 selling Gladiator challenge video library 1:37:16 KOTC losing money 1:38:07 experience with Charles Bennett 1:41:58 Charles Bennett changing name to Felony 1:43:03 sued by Terry Trebilcock1:46:43 Gladiator Challenge, KOTC buyouts 1:50:27 relationship with Chris Cordero 1:52:36 Experience with Rafiel Torre 1:55:49 Gerald Strebendt 1:56:34 interview wrap up 1:59:55 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231VenmSupport the show

Send a text  MMA Docu SeriesDive into the incredible story of Marco Ruas, the barefoot Brazilian who stepped into the UFC octagon before the sport even had a name. Often called the forgotten pioneer, Ruas arrived at UFC 7 in 1995 with a revolutionary well-rounded game—blending Muay Thai devastation, judo throws, jiu-jitsu mastery, and luta livre grappling—that shattered the era of pure specialists. Watch as he dismantles opponents like Larry Cureton with early heel hooks, outstrikes Remco Pardoel, and methodically chops down the massive Paul Varelans with those legendary low kicks that echoed through the arena.We explore his gritty Rio origins, training under legends like Oswaldo Alves and Luis Alves, his vale tudo roots, the rivalry with the Gracies that never fully materialized, his dominant UFC 7 tournament win that proved versatility was the future, later battles against names like Oleg Taktarov and Maurice Smith, and the heartbreaking what-if matchup with Don Frye that fans still debate. Beyond the cage, Ruas's lasting impact shines through as a coach—he mentored Pedro Rizzo, whose devastating leg kicks carried Ruas's influence forward to shape fighters like Jose Aldo.If you're into MMA history, early UFC pioneers, or the evolution from vale tudo to modern mixed martial arts, this mini documentary uncovers why Ruas was truly ahead of his time—the first complete fighter who forced the sport to evolve.Hit play now and discover the man who mastered MMA before it even existed. If you love deep dives into MMA's roots, subscribe to the channel for more untold stories from the early days of the UFC and beyond—new episodes drop regularly!00:00 - Introduction 00:10 - Marco Ruas: The Forgotten Father of Modern MMA01:53 - Marco Ruas as a Neighborhood Legend02:21 - Early Life & Martial Arts Training in Rio03:39 - Public Challenge to the Gracie Family04:48 - Birth of Ruas Vale Tudo05:38 - The Devastating Power of Ruas’ Leg Kicks05:56 - UFC 7: One-Night Heavyweight Tournament Debut06:38 - Quarterfinal vs Larry Cureton (Heel Hook)07:12 - Semifinal vs Remco Pardoel (Striking & Grappling)07:42 - Final vs Paul Varelans (Leg Kick Masterclass)08:36 - Aftermath: How Ruas Changed the Game09:24 - Later Career Fights & Transition Out of UFC10:00 - Mentorship, Pedro Rizzo & Jose Aldo11:43 - Brutal Training Stories & Seminar Pain11:56 - Legacy & Reflection12:06 - The Fight That Never Happened vs Don FryeSupport the show

Send a textPaul Buentello BEFORE the UFC 50 Fight Club Member Paul Buentello started his journey fighting for Steve Nelson in the very tough and rugged Amarillo Texas MMA scene. Buentello dives into what it was like fighting absolute legends in Evan Tanner, Gan McGee and Bobby Hoffman prior to getting his opportunity within the UFC. This is a feel good story featuring a guy that is hard not to like 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:52 interview start 1:00 reffing fights 4:38 training taekwondo early on 5:48 training partner Cedric Marks 7:38 Ultimate Athlete 2 riot 9:36 guarding the pain inc booth 14:11 stiffed on payment for Kerry Schall fight19:22 USWF 8 man tournament 24:56 Paul Buentello vs Dan Severn 28:43 competing in tough man contest 33:57 Lenard Garcia coming out of USWF 34:33 Paul Buentello vs Larry Parker 39:00 training with Sven Bean 40:36 Paul Buentello vs Todd Broadaway42:40 Heath Herring current life 44:49 getting mistaken for Babalu 47:08 losing to a WWE wrestler 48:44 Paul Buentello vs Jimmy Westfall51:50 forcing hands into smaller MMA gloves 53:36 Paul Buentello vs Bobby Hoffman 55:18 UFC current crowd compared to previous 57:58 self managing early career 59:09 driving 27 hours to IFC event with daughter 1:02:39 Paul Buentello vs Rocky Batastini1:04:08 Paul Buentello vs Gan McGee 1:05:29 Paul Buentello vs Rico Rodriguez Wet & Wild1:10:39 leaving to California to Train MMA 1:12:38 training with Cain Velazquez 1:13:25 Cameron Earle story 1:17:54 Paul Buentello vs Roger Neff 1:19:57 Paul Buentello vs Mike Kyle 1:23:48 KOTC contract 1:25:20 journey to get to the UFC1:27:13 training for Gary Marshall1:30:49 experience with Bob Cook 1:31:45 thoughts on Frank Shamrock 1:34:18 meeting Andy Anderson 1:39:48 training partners at AKA 1:42:22 cancelled bout with Forrest Griffin 1:42:57 Bobby Hoffman protected KOTC 1:45:29 Paul Buentello vs Andy Montana 1:46:21 Paul Buentello vs Lloyd Marshbanks 1:48:59 mentally not prepared for first UFC fight1:50:32 getting into the UFC 1:52:27 relationship with Joe Silva 1:53:05 refusing to use PEDs 1:54:35 traveling the world to fight 1:57:01 paying dues to fight 1:58:58 Bob Cook gym stories 2:03:07 interview wrap up 2:06:37 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 316 EliteXC Internal Chaos & CBS - Jared Shaw Jared Shaw joins the MMA History Podcast, delivering the 3rd episode of our multi episode  Elite XC series.Shaw breaks down the CBS primetime peak numbers (6.51 million viewers for Kimbo vs.James Thompson). The start of what is considered the “gold rush” of WMMA -  Gina Carano's pivotal win over Caitlyn Young ;, Robbie Lawler vs. Scott Smith stealing the show, Nick Diaz's "Don't be scared, homie" moment, & the internal power struggles within the company. On the controversial side… Gary Shaw’s unceremonious departure, gaming the stock market… this episode is insane If you think that this episode is wild… just wait for the 4th drop when everything implodes.  0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:49 interview start 0:52 having a meeting with CBS 4:55 Gary Shaw not having a Wikipedia 9:36 John Perretti erased from Wikipedia 12:39 campaign to bad mouth Jared Shaw 17:16 EliteXC street certified event 21:35 funding StrikeForce event Frank Shamrock vs Cung Le25:16 Nick Diaz at StrikeForce event 26:20 Nick Diaz Marijuana Suspension 30:06 experience with Larry Hazard 31:51 Drew Fickett behaving during event 32:19 Tiki Ghosn appearing on event 33:22 ShoXC series 35:15 Trying to Oust Gary Shaw 40:27 EliteXC Primetime 41:27 Kimbo Slice vs James Thompson 48:22 Brett Rogers vs Jon Murphy 50:15 Phil Baroni vs Joey Villasenor 51:23 Gina Carano vs Kaitlin Young 55:45 Robbie Lawler vs Scott Smith 58:44 EliteXC events holding up to current day 1:00:57 Refferee Dan Miragliotta1:04:03 importance of a good Refferee 1:07:46 Gary Shaw parting from EliteXC1:10:42 ShoXC in Hawaii 1:11:23 “Don’t be scared homie” viral comment 1:12:44 Jared Shaw not attending Hawaii event 1:19:17 trusting Ariel Helwani 1:21:16 KJ Noons contract negotiation1:32:41 interview wrap up 1:41:05 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 315 Tank Abbott Fighting in the 90’s  The Original UFC bad boy, David "Tank" Abbott, joins us for an unfiltered deep dive into the wild early days of MMA.From his explosive knockouts at UFC 6, legendary clashes in the tournament, street-fighting roots, and raw takes on the politics, "works," and personalities that shaped the sport - Tank holds nothing back.Now retired in the desert, this powerhouse legend (natural 625-Ib bench, no-BS 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:51 interview start 6:58 packaged by Dave Thomas for the UFC 11:02 meeting with Art Davie 16:44 17:30 receiving letter of intent to fight in the UFC 21:44 attending UFC 5 24:19 interactions with Joe Son 29:19 issues with Jim Brown 43:42 Ken Shamrock vs Royce Gracie “rematch”44:58 Ultimate Tank ppv 45:50 cornering Vanilla ice for a fight 46:31 thoughts on Tito Ortiz 50:48 technique vs being tough 52:02 Tank Abbott vs John Matua 58:02 making the UFC entertaining 59:05 Tank Abbott vs Paul Varelans1:03:03 Tank Abbott vs Oleg Taktarov1:07:17 Pat Smith altercation backstage 1:09:46 attack on Pat Smith in elevator 1:14:30 Ken Sharock calling the cops 1:15:29 writing apology letter to John McCarthy 1:16:59 becoming a paint artist 1:17:44 training with Mark Schultz 1:19:38 wrestling Chael Sonnan 1:21:46 first fixed fight in the UFC 1:23:09 Ken Shamrock not being pushed in UFC1:24:58 Tank Abbott vs Dan Severn 1:30:17 Altercation with Allan Goes 1:40:55 sucker punched by Wallid Ismail1:46:04 Bas Rutten vs Kevin Randleman 1:47:05 Allan Goes incident in Puerto Rico1:49:28 thoughts on John Perretti 1:52:38 meeting Tito Ortiz 1:55:32 Tito Ortiz stealing check from car 2:02:12 Tank Abbott vs Scott Ferrozzo 2:09:13 Tank Abbott vs Cal Worsham 2:11:25 Direct wave TV sponsor 2:11:44 Canceled bout with Ken Shamrock 2:14:39 fighters taking steroids 2:17:07 Don Frye worked fight with Mark Hall 2:18:04 Big Al throwing burger at Frank Shamrock 2:19:55 thoughts on the UFC hall of fame 2:25:00 Ken Shamrock calling out Tank Abbott 2:27:35 Pride Fc using Tank Abbott for promotional material 2:32:05 Tank Abbott vs Maurice Smith 2:34:26 Dan Severn pulling out of Maurice Smith fight 2:38:37 interview wrap up/ outroPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 314 James Hergott - MMA Film Maker James Hergott is one of the OG’s when it comes to filming the sport of Mixed Martial Arts. While currently promoting his film Super Car Saints available on Amazon Prime; his past incudes Striking Truth with George’s St Pierre & Fighting for the Troops. This episode is special drop where we discuss MMA History current issues along with James past history It’s a fun listen  Please follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 313 The Fall of EF Battlecade - John Perretti John Perretti, Battlecade: Extreme Fighting creator/matchmaker & formerUFC matchmaker.Deep dive into the promotion's last event via Extreme Fighting 4 (Des Moines, March 28, 1997): It featured Olympic gold medalistsKenny Monday & Kevin Jackson on one card, along with epic clashes like Paul Jones vs.Eric Paulson and a mid-show power outage, we talk about Gracie hesitancy on certain matchups (including near-misses with big money offers), Bas Rutten bad blood, and John's take on grappler-to-striker limits.Raw, firsthand history from the source.0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:57 interview start 2:19 Extreme fighting 4 in Iowa 3:20 budget for Extreme fighting 4 4:09 Ralph Gracie vs Eugenio Tadeu rumor 6:28 allegedly matchmaking Brazilians to lose fights 7:40 training Igor Zinoviev to fight Royce Gracie 9:47 Bas Rutten altercation with Rickson Gracie 11:55 Roster of fighters at Extreme Fighting 412:50 power outage during event 14:14 Allan Goes vs Todd Bjornethun18:14 Gary Myers vs Tommy Glanville 19:38 Paul Jones vs Erik Paulson 21:22 Kevin Jackson vs John Lober 22:37 creating modern MMA25:12 Extreme fighting changing how you viewed the sport 26:13 thoughts on Joe Moreira 30:06 John Lober personal issues32:12 Matt Hume vs Pat Miletich35:44 financial issues coming into event 37:18 Kenny Monday vs John Lewis 43:47 John Donehue reffing all 4 events 44:43 Maurice Smith vs Kazunari Murakami51:24 altercation with Ken Shamrock in lobby 56:18 drug issues at the Lions den 58:13 matchmaking fights in the UFC 1:02:05 realizing Extreme fighting is finished 1:05:15 Igor Zinoviev injured out of extreme fighting 1:05:38 receiving a call to work for the UFC1:10:02 Art Davie’s letter to congress to ban MMA 1:11:41 plugs/ promotions 1:12:42 interview wrap up 1:24:19 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 312 Andy Anderson Federal PrisonAndy Anderson was once a Texas entrepreneur owning topless clubs and the notorious All Nude Steakhouse (supplying ring girls for UFC events), Andy's life took a turn- he's now serving a federal sentence for drug conspiracy (30 years) and money laundering (20 years), though he insists he's innocent and was railroaded by false testimony. This audio-only deep dive covers fixed fights, mafia run-ins in Ukraine's IFC event, Japanese afterparties gone wrong, and the grit that built MMA.No holds barred - just raw history from a man who lived it.0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 2:35 interview start 2:52 helping move UFC 12 after cancellation 6:49 attending UFC 1 as a spectator 7:42 becoming involved with the UFC8:26 fighting NHB in Mexico 9:21 interactions with Julian Sanchez 10:06 relationship with Art Davie11:27 Art Davie and Bob Meyrowitz relationship 13:14 meeting Buddy Albin 14:27 relationship with Charlie Anzalone15:04 Buddy Albin being tough to work with 17:25 Andy Anderson vs John Hess 21:00 owning several topless bars22:09 Cornering Anthony Macias for fixed fight 25:16 Pat smith attacked in Elevator by Tito Ortiz 27:06 Remco Pardoel alleged Marco Ruas of greasing 28:41 Marco Ruas calling out the Gracie’s 29:44 Bas Rutten calling out Rickson Gracie 30:20 Japanese promotions hand picking fights 32:22 Tank Abbott Hard Rock Cafe incident 35:40 interactions with Joe Son and Kimo Leopoldo 38:12 Ken Shamrock dropping women off a balcony 40:04 Art Davie split with Bob Meyrowitz  42:51 living with Frank Shamrock 44:23 living with Scott Bessac46:01 reason for being locked up 49:36 initial offering for sentencing 51:53 locked up with Tiger King 53:30 amount of time being served 56:45 current living situation 1:00:51 IFC Ukraine Debut controversy 1:08:50 Ron Van Clief 1:10:10 interactions with Leon Spinks1:11:09 reason for the UFC logo at IFC event 1:12:21 Stuck in Ukraine after IFC event 1:15:48 Bas Rutten Paul Varelans incident  1:19:23 escaping to Paris from Ukraine 1:21:05 the local mafia wanting the tapes 1:22:06 Buddy Albin grab and go plan 1:22:52 Igor Vovchanchyn reputation at IFC event 1:23:52 Art Davie not involved in the IFC 1:25:40 Anthony Macias vs Sakuraba1:28:30 John McCarthys relationship with Bob Meyrowitz1:29:30 John Perretti coming to the UFC 1:31:19 Bob Meyrowitz thoughts on John Perretti 1:36:25 early UFC matchmaking 1:37:16 UFC not allowing John Perretti to purchase 1:41:06 Bob Meyrowitz interactions with Oprah Winfrey 1:41:53 fondest memories of the UFC 1:42:38 UFC changing rules because of mark Coleman1:44:28 Andy Anderson outro 1:45:56 outro/ closing thoughtsSubscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastDiscord:https://discord.gg/s3mV6wyNgvSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow tSupport the show

Send a textEp 311 Ron Jhun BEFORE the UFC Ron Jhun is Hawaii’s only 50 fight club member and had over 40 bouts prior to competing in the UFC. Ron Jhun is an early pioneer and a legend among the Hawaiian MMA community; we share some funny insights and stories in this very hard to come by interview Ep 311 Ron Jhun BEFORE the UFC 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:53 interview start 1:24 growing up with a boxing pedigree 2:53 training prior to first fight 4:35 learning Jiu jitsu from VHS tapes 5:18 training at Jesus is lord6:38 reason for David Pa’aluhi retiring 11:39 Ron Jhun vs Eddy Millis 17:01 Ron Jhun vs Eugene Jackson20:31 Ron Jhun vs Paul Cutts22:37 Ron Jhun vs James Zikic24:05 Relson Gracie pushback on the Island 27:21 Ron Jhun vs James Zikic (rematch)29:24 Ron Jhun vs Marco De Silva30:43 payout for tournament fights 33:04 winning Super Brawl 14 tournament 36:41 hearing about Scott Coker early on 37:18 running into John Hackleman 39:08 possible relations to KJ Noons 39:45 offered Yuki Sasaki bout in Japan 41:48 experience first time in Japan 43:50 Ron Jhun vs Yuki Sasaki46:43 interactions with the Yakuza 48:28 Ron Jhun vs Kim Mason51:11 Drug issues on the Island 53:10 Ron Jhun vs Erik Paulson59:12 relationship with Erik Paulson 1:02:21 Josh Barnett and Erik Paulson story 1:04:14 Ron Jhun vs Jason Von Flue1:05:42 promoting on the Underground forums 1:08:27 meeting Sean Shelby and Tom Brady 1:10:41 Ron Jhun vs JT Taylor1:12:08 Ron Jhun vs Brian Sleeman1:13:05 Ron Jhun vs Dave Strasser1:14:08 Ron Jhun vs Joe Stevenson1:15:31 Ron Jhun vs Pete Spratt1:17:33 WFA 20011:18:58 rolling with John Lewis 1:20:31 self promoting to Blue Belt 1:22:39 John Lewis current life 1:25:01 Ron Jhun current life 1:28:31 football in Hawaii 1:31:30 plugs/ promotions 1:32:12 experience with Cabbage Correira 1:33:44 Ron Jhun vs Jermaine Andre1:35:28 sponsored by Tapout 1:36:21 Ron Jhun vs Mandatorily Suda1:39:07 Ron Jhun vs Stephan Potvin1:40:00 Ron Jhun vs Shonie Carter1:41:03 Ron Jhun vs Dennis Hallman1:42:31 Ron Jhun vs Mike Penalber1:43:06 interview wrap up 1:44:48 outro/ closing thoughtsSubscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastDiscord:https://discord.gg/s3mV6wyNgvSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Support the show

Send a textEp 310 EliteXC The Run - Jared Shaw Following the huge buzz from Part 1(#308: "The Rise of EliteXC"), Jared returns for an unfiltered deep dive into the promotion's explosive two-year run that seriously challenged the UFC.Hear the insider stories: nearly signing Brock Lesnar post-K-1, flying Kimbo Slice to LA with a briefcase of cash to lock in MMA's first viral superstar (his43-second KO of Tank Abbott drew massive Showtime ratings), Gina Carano's breakthrough win over Tonya Evinger at Uprising in Hawaii (despite her tough weight cut), and the bold events that pushed women's MMA forward while building legitimacy with fighters like Robbie Lawler and Nick Diaz.Shaw opens up on the highs (CBS primetime deals bringing MMA to millions), the internal chaos, financial struggles, and the dramatic 2008 collapse after the Heat eventcontroversy. Plus, personal reflections like his life-changing open-heart surgery at 19.This is authentic MMA history straight from the VP who lived it-raw, revealing, and essential for any fight fan.Tune in tomorrow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Subscribe and hit notifications so you don't miss it!0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:52 interview start 3:11 Bjorn Rebney reputation 4:53 talks of signing Brock Lesnar to Elite XC7:05 bad matchmaking for Brock Lesnar 9:14 open heart surgery at an early age 12:40 EliteXC Uprising in Honolulu13:37 importance of Rich Chou 16:37 TJay Thompson brought in by Rich Chou18:04 Patrick Freitas20:48 Matchmaking process 24:26 coming up with weight classes for event 27:18 Gina Carano struggling to make weight 27:52 revitalizing Robbie Lawler 29:33 contacting Icey Mike about Kimbo Slice 34:14 signing Kimbo Slice to Elite XC36:53 dealing with the California Athletic Commission40:26 Chuck Champion makes organization cuts 43:35 Mike Pyle refusing to fight for the title 47:19 Kimbo vs Bo Cantrell51:56 KJ Noons vs Nick Diaz 59:28 Nick Diaz importance for Elite XC 1:00:36 conversations with Dream FC1:02:54 conversations with Ken Shamrock1:04:04 Eddie Alvarez being a huge ticket seller 1:05:05 EliteXC Street Certified event 1:11:55 viewership for Street Certified event 1:14:06 dealings with Ken Pavia 1:15:18 dealings with Jeremy Lappen 1:21:29 Scott Smith improper matchmaking 1:23:19 interview wrap up/ sneak preview  1:26:19 outro/ closing thoughts  Subscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastDiscord:https://discord.gg/s3mV6wyNgvSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOuSupport the show

Send a textEp 309 Ed Herman BEFORE the UFCDive deep into the raw origins of UFC veteran Ed "Short Fuse" Herman - The Ultimate Fighter Season 3 runner-up, a middleweight powerhouse with 26 official UFC bouts (plus his TUF Octagon appearances), 13 wins inside the promotion, and an impressive eight post-fight bonuses, including Knockout of the Night, Submission of the Night, Fight of the Night, and Performance of the Night honors. As the UFC's longest consecutively tenured athlete, his journey is legendary.From his gritty Pacific Northwest roots, wrestling under the influence of Dan Gable's legacy, to grinding at Team Quest alongside legends like Randy Couture, Matt Lindland, and Chael Sonnen, Ed shares untold stories of his pre-UFC wars against future stars like Glover Teixeira and Nick Thompson.Now retired after a storied career spanning 2003-2023, he's giving back as owner of Short Fuse Martial Arts in Vancouver, WA, and coach at American Top Team Portland, mentoring the next generation.From his gritty Pacific Northwest roots, wrestling under the influence of Dan Gable's legacy, to grinding at Team Quest alongside legends like Randy Couture, Matt Lindland, and Chael Sonnen, Ed shares untold stories of his pre-UFC wars against future stars like Glover Teixeira and Nick Thompson.Now retired after a storied career spanning 2003-2023, he's giving back as owner of Short Fuse Martial Arts in Vancouver, WA, and coach at American Top Team Portland, mentoring the next generation.Hosted by MMA detective Mike Davis and Joey Venti - the only podcast preserving MMA's untold history through exclusive interviews. Don't miss this kickoff to 2026!0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:53 interview start 0:57 plugs/ promotions 1:52 training at team quest 3:05 wrestling in High school 5:03 experience with Phil Baroni 6:11 Chael Sonnen hard worker comment 6:59 early career managers 8:50 training prior to first fight 9:52 joining Team Quest11:51 having a rough upbringing 17:55 Ed Herman vs Noel Tworek19:43 Ed Herman vs Byron Yates20:54 Ed Herman vs Andrew Taylor23:44 Bouncer work for a strip club 26:40 feelings after first loss 27:43 Ed Herman vs Ryan Pope28:50 Ed Herman vs Shane Davis30:57 training with Dennis Hellman and Jeff Monson 32:09 Ed Herman vs Rich Guerin34:51 Ed Herman vs Derek Downey36:05 coaching at Team Quest 37:04 Ed Herman vs Justin Hawes37:50 Ed Herman vs Jacen Flynn39:01 Ed Herman vs Cory Devela39:39 Ed Herman vs Shane Davis “rematch” 40:15 flying to Japan to fight 41:00 Ed Herman vs Kazou Misake45:03 Ed Herman vs Brian Ebersole46:18 Ed Herman vs Joe Doerkson47:27 trying out for TUF season 1 50:04 Ed Herman vs Glover Teixeira53:18 Ed Herman vs Rhomez Brower54:23 Ed Herman vs Nick Thompson56:34 Ed Herman vs Dave Menne57:56 calling out Matt Hughes post fight 59:22 teammate Ryan Schultz59:58 relationship with Evan Tanner 1:01:35 thoughts on Matt Lindland1:03:17 Kim Couture1:03:55 reaction to Team Quest splitting1:08:12 working out with Jesse Taylor 1:08:35 interview wrap up 1:13:29 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify httSupport the show

Send a textIn 2025 we experienced a lot of growth and recorded some incredible history pieces Joining is for a recap of the years events is Julio Macedo (RagdollMMA), Referee Kevin MacDonald, Brian McLaughlin & James Hergott This year we had 55 total drops 51 Deep Dives  & 2 round tablesSpecial Thank You to the following Phil Barker, Hong Kong Phooey 613Json and Thomas Mural for watching on his wife’s account Thank You for all of the support and growth thar we experienced this year and we promise to deliver the same quality product for many years to comePlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 308 The Rise of EliteXC - Jared Shaw EliteXC made an incredible run to become an industry power in 2007. Joining us to talk about the historic rise is former Vice President of operations is Jared Shaw of the famous Shaw Boxing family. Details EliteXC's explosive growth: landing the Showtime deal, debuting in one month with Renzo Gracie vs. Frank Shamrock, pioneering women's MMA on TV with Gina Carano vs. Julie Kedzie (peaking ratings), co-promotions with K-1 and Strikeforce, building Kimbo Slice, and turning profitable in 14 months amid chaos are just a few of the subjects. 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:00 interview start 1:02 current life 5:04 transitioning from boxing to MMA Promoting 12:20 having a meeting with Showtime 15:18 UFC 70 was supposed to be on HBO16:34 meeting continued with Showtime20:21 offered to become vice president of Elite XC20:42 cutthroat business of boxing 21:52 getting the call to start promotion23:50 building Elite XC26:22 hosting first Elite XC show after 1 month 29:27 tension behind the scenes 33:13 Rich Chou’s involvement 35:04 Jeremy Lappen39:39 Renzo Gracie vs Frank Shamrock 41:19 penny stocks for Elite XC42:42 dealings with Frank Shamrock 44:42 hosting first televised women’s MMA match48:38 Julie Kedzie vs Gina Carano peaked ratings 51:05 selecting ring announcers the Elite XC 52:42 Sponsors for Elite XC54:27 controversial ending in main event 55:07 co promoting with K1 for K1 Dynamite 58:39 K1 Dynamite fight card 1:00:10 promoting K1 on the Fly 1:02:08 issues with Co promoting events 1:05:37 pay scale for fighters at Elite XC 1:08:46 Kimbo Slice vs Tank Abbott 1:10:03 K1 Dynamite turning into a disaster 1:14:06 dealings with Scott Coker 1:16:27 Hosting first ShoXC card with only 16 days 1:17:13 legitimizing Kimbo Slice as a fighter 1:19:16 Kimbo Slice vs James Thompson 1:19:43 dealings with Ted Williams 1:20:51 rectangle cage design 1:22:45 running small shows vs big shows 1:23:46 purchasing Cage Rage 1:26:04 Cage Rage fighters not coming to Elite XC 1:28:22 purchasing Icon MMA1:33:03 press conference for Elite XC 1:38:53 wanting Bert Rodgers vs Kimbo Slice 1:42:02 preview for part 2 1:43:32 arranging event in Hawaii for Nick Diaz 1:47:58 interview wrap up 1:50:28 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #elitexc Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 307 Jesse Taylor BEFORE the UFC Jesse Taylor dominated The Ultimate Fighter house, crushed everyone in sight, and was one win away from a UFC contract...Then one wild night changed everything.In this raw two-part episode, Jesse "JT Money" Taylor pulls no punches: early Team Quest chaos, underground San Diego stories, TUF glory andheartbreak, worldwide redemption wars, and some insane behind-the-scenes bombs you've never heard.Pure MMA history gold from a true 50-fight veteran. 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:56 interview start 1:06 inspiration watching old UFC 2:11 meeting Jake Shields and Gilbert Melendez 3:17 leaving college wrestling behind 5:22 Antonio McKee and Dan Henderson roll6:31 Antonio McKee vs John Smith 9:15 cancelled bout with Chris Lytle 10:56 Jesse Taylor vs Robert Sarkozi15:55 Jesse Taylor vs Chris Chiasson17:30 training at Team Quest 18:07 Sean Strickland thrown out of Team quest 21:04 fighting in Tijuana 22:48 Jesse Taylor vs Jesse Forbes24:45 Jesse Taylor vs Jorge Ortiz27:35 interactions with Toby ImadaAnd Warmachine 28:16 training with Shawn Tompkins 30:00 training with Duane Ludwig 30:56 Jesse Taylor vs Kenny Ento34:13 Jesse Taylor vs Matt Major35:22 Jesse Taylor vs Jorge Ramirez37:08 process getting on TUF 39:19 Jesse Taylor vs Nick Rossborough40:43 living with Mike Dolce43:36 Jesse Taylor vs Dante Rivera44:43 Jesse Taylor vs Tim Credeur45:34 experience living in TUF house 46:46 thoughts on Rudy Silva 49:52 Kicked off TUF finale 53:19 comments made by Rampage Jackson 55:35 Jesse Taylor vs CB Dolloway57:15 relationship with Vinny Magalhães57:36 getting cut from the UFC 59:20 Jesse Taylor vs Drew Fickett1:01:22 reason for leaving Team Quest 1:03:58 Jesse Taylor vs Rico Altamiro1:05:18 Jesse Taylor vs Chris Camozzi1:07:19 Jesse Taylor vs Dong Sik Yoon1:08:46 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 306 Andy Main TUF to the King of PancraseAndy Main is currently a stand out coach at Pure Martial Arts in Rockaway NJ. Andy rose through ranks of the regional MMA scene at an incredibly early age… we go in depth with our analyzation  of his career. From competing on the Ultimate Fighter tv series to winning the King of Pancrase belt, this is a great listen Special Thank You to our friend Brian McLaughlin for helping with the research and landing Andy Main for us. 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:03 interview start 1:22 interactions with Jamie Varner 2:52 Amanda Nunes sparring with Jamie Varner 4:26 hard sparring sessions 5:57 longevity in MMA gyms 8:30 fighting with injuries 10:10 Andy Main vs Jimmy Rivera15:46 thoughts after first loss 18:23 khabib nurmagomedov training at AMA 21:19  training khabib nurmagomedov and Amanda Nunes 24:36 high level fighters from the East Coast 25:40 Promoter Lou Neglia 29:07 Andy Main vs Ricky Lee 31:12 learning to strike as a southpaw 33:46 Ricky Lee Muay Thai experience 34:42 Andy Main vs Steve McCabe36:13 Andy Main vs Jackson Galka37:58 kicked out of Renzo Gracie affiliate gym 44:32 where issues began with Renzo Gracie 51:58 being mature at a young age 54:12 Andy Main vs Lester Caskow56:54 tryout for TUF season 12 58:55 interview for TUF 1:04:09 feelings living in TUF house 1:05:58 Andy Main vs Jason Brenton1:06:33 reason for not being on GSPs team1:07:09 Andy Main vs Kyle Watson1:08:41 picked for Josh Koscheck’s team1:10:27 thoughts on Andy Main going to TUF 1:14:53 left off TUF finale 1:16:40 reason for walking away from AKA1:20:30 interactions with Dillon Danis 1:23:05 interactions with Gordon Ryan 1:26:09 Dillon Danis vs Logan Paul 1:29:51 UFC fighter pay 1:36:55 Jeff Novitzky 1:38:39 Andy Main vs Bobby Reardanz1:45:19 the WMA 1:49:02 dealings with Alliance MMA 1:56:19 Andy Main vs Felipe Arantes “controversy” 1:59:41 Andy Main vs Hioki Aok2:02:05 Tattoo issues at Golds gym in Japan 2:05:54 assumptions of being part of LGBT in Japan 2:08:56 story from Japan teammates 2:10:51 interview wrap up/ outroPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 305 War Machine Jon Koppenhaver Career & ControversyIF YOU USE THIS VIDEO WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM US WE WILL FLAG YOIR CHANNEL War Machine Jon Koppenhaver interview took place from his living unit at Ely Prison. The video / audio is NOT in sync due to the prison security settings NOT allowing voice recording for video visitations. War Machine Jon Koppenhaver is a controversial figure whose career started with Ken Shamrock & the Lions Den Gym and eventually moved to Las Vegas to train with some of the best fighters in the world. Koppenhaver does not shy away from hard subjects like his relationship with Phil Baroni or problems he experienced outside of the cage. You have never heard War Machine speak about the topics that he were addressed in this special interview.Ep 305 War Machine Jon Koppenhaver Career & Controversy0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:33 Disclaimer 2:40 interview start 3:08 feedback on Vice documentary 3:58 beginnings in MMA 5:07 showing up to Lions Den tryout 7:10 Vince Pashell throwing a brick at War Machine 8:45 roommate Erik Del Fierro9:15 relationship with Tony Galindo10:21 interactions with Bob Shamrock 11:01 bringing supplements in from Mexico 12:47 War Machine vs Angle Santibanez13:35 experience at Total Combat 14:46 Richard Dalton15:05 training partner Cedric Marks16:40 relationship with Lions Den team mates 18:06 War Machine vs Frank Duffy19:08 meeting Phil Baroni19:52 training with Matt Hendricks 20:48 training at Cobra Kai 21:48 War Machine vs Andrew Ramirez22:37 War Machine vs Mike Odonnell27:08 process getting on TUF 6 29:37 living in the TUF house 30:46 friendship with Mac Danzig 31:30 issues with Matt Serra 32:41 Mac Danzig Bird feeder prank 33:23 how War Machine was portrayed on TUF 33:56 training experience at TUF 34:43 manager Matt Stansell stolen money 35:31 getting a contract for the UFC 36:18 War Machine vs Jared Rollins TUF finale 37:47 speaking out against Lloyd Irvin 40:05 War Machine vs Yoshiyuki Yoshida41:39 problems with matchmaker Joe Silva 43:25 fired from the UFC over Evan Tanner comment 44:08 relationship with Dana White 45:20 War Machine vs David Anderson47:42 training with Vernon White 50:01 War Machine vs Guillaume DeLoremzi52:12 thought on Phil Baroni’s current situation 57:17 Julio Bazan Teamate & roommate59:07 War Machine vs Timothy Woods1:00:25 War Machine vs Erick Montaño1:02:00 War Machine vs David Mitchell1:03:09 training with Baret Yoshida1:04:16 training with Junie Browning1:05:01 Shawn Tompkins1:06:13 War Machine vs Zach Light1:06:36 War Machine vs John Alessio1:07:48 surrounded by bad influences 1:09:20 Ed Ratcliff1:09:46 Charlie Kohler1:10:03 Christian Vargas 1:10:19 Miguel Reyes1:10:31 canceled bout with Gideon Ray1:11:25 friendship with Wade Shipp1:12:08 relationship with Mother 1:13:18 War Machine vs Roger Huerta1:15:30 relationship with Sam Kaplan1:16:24 2 year lay off due to lock up 1:17:00 predicting more MMA tragedies 1:19:05 converting to Christ while in Prison 1:21:05 walking away from fights in prison1:23:07 punched in the face 1:24:45 War Machine vs Vaughn Anderson1:26:09 Tony Galindo Pen*s pump story 1:27:36 calling Tony Galindo after Ken Shamrock OD 1:29:16 training with Ashe Bowman1:29:33 War Machine vs Ron Keslar1:30:52 herniated disc while training1:32:06 wanting to get out for Wife and Kids 1:33:24 message to former tSupport the show

Send a textEp 304 Jim Miller BEFORE the UFC w/ Brian McLaughlin Jim Miller is on the precipice of becoming the first ever member of the 50 Fights in the UFC. Jim Milers journey to the UFC is largely undocumented and with the help of his long time friend and trainer Brian McLaughlin we explore his path within the independent grind. Special Thank You to friend of the show Brian McLaughlin for helping out this together. Ep 304 Jim Miller BEFORE the UFC  0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:01 interview start 2:05 Forced to miss weight against Thigo Alves11:44 Interactions with Joe Silva 14:13 beginnings in MMA 18:09 story about Jim Millers father 23:14 Micky Galls original coach 26:04 thoughts on Cm punk vs Micky Gall28:28 Cm punks training camp 29:21 Jim Miller vs Eddie Fyvie33:41 Jim Miller vs Kevin Roddy36:31 Kevin Roddy story 38:15 Watching brother Dan Miller lose a fight 39:29 Jim Miller vs Ryan Ciotoli42:42 Reality Fighting 13 4 man tournament 45:40 Jim Miller vs Muhsin Corbbrey46:48 Johnathon Helwig vs Mike Constantino48:12 thoughts on Frankie Edgar50:49 Muhsin Corbbrey story before fight 52:08 Jim Miller vs James Jones 52:41 Planet Jiu jitsu closing doors week of fight 54:51 training partner Chris Liguori 56:57 Jim Miller vs Frankie Edgar 1:01:23 not returning to Reality fighting1:03:28 TUF 5 tryouts 1:06:29 previous opponents at TUF tryouts 1:08:41 receiving nick name A10 1:10:08 not getting into TUF 5 1:11:03 training at AMA 1:13:46 Jim Miller vs Al Buck1:15:39 Jim Miller vs Anthony Morrison1:17:55 Jim Miller vs Nuri Shakir “Weight miss” 1:23:08 undefeated in welterweight fights 1:24:31 fighting at different weight classes 1:29:29 Jim Miller vs Chris Ligori1:31:06 Dan Miller vs John Howard 1:34:40 finishing Chris Ligori 1:36:21 the “Jim Miller rule”1:36:41 AMA fighting training partners 1:38:38 Jim Miller vs Chris Ligori rematch 1:41:22 researching Jim Miller 1:42:51 getting the call from UFC while in IFL 1:46:06 Jim Miller vs Bart Palaziewski1:48:50 fights prior to UFC being in New Jersey 1:50:55 feelings when receiving call from UFC 1:54:19 interview wrap up 1:55:14 outro/closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 303 Rafiel Torre RND Table 2 Legendary Reporter Jeff Sherwood, Documentary film maker Ed Doty and Referee Larry Landless weigh in on Rafiel Torre. The panel was out together to get a look at Rafiel Torre and his appearance from the side of the media. Rafiel Torre the person, the competitor and the reporter is an onion with many many layers….We hope to do RoundTable discussions once a month for an additional drop, please let up know who you would like to hear from Ep 303 Rafiel Torre RND Table 2 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:08 interview start 2:25 Jeff Sherwood start in MMA 6:51 Ed Doty background in MMA 8:58 Larry Landless introduction 11:11 meeting Rafiel Torre 17:24 Rafiel Torre red flags 23:25 Kumite in the woods story 25:46 Frank Dukes kicking speed claims 26:58 Rafiel Torre lying tactics 33:14 credibility from the Brazilians 35:18 early MMA reporting 38:48 attending MMA events frequently 42:31 Jay Martinez vs Tito Ortiz 43:17 Rafiel Torre Lifestyle 44:00 Rafiel Torre Abilities47:22 Rafiel Torre mindset 48:21 Rafiel Torre vs Ioka Tianuu51:00 Bruce Buffer Introduction 55:05 What Torre paid Tianuu1:00:35 Rafiel Torre Creation 1:05:45 Sherdog Interview 1:08:47 Torre Partying & Decline 1:11:30 The Crime 1:16:14 The Change in Torre 1:18:02 Torre Social Awareness 1:21:20 Court Case 1:25:00 Lessons in Humility 1:26:00 Interview Difficulties1:26:30 Magic in Jail 1:29:55 Gerald Strebendt1:32:30 Torre Sentencing 1:34:00 wrap up Please follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 302 Ron Waterman Career Deep Dive Ron Waterman stepped out of the classroom as a teacher and made his way into the cage to fight some of the world’s toughest men. Ron takes us through his journey that includes legendary manager Phyllis Lee, dealings with Math maker John Perretti and wrestling in the WWEPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:02 interview start 1:21 current life 1:50 training with Bas Rutten 2:54 beginnings in MMA 4:28 Bas Rutten invitational 14:47 experience with John Perretti6:49 Ron Waterman vs Daniel James7:46 Ron Waterman vs Joshua Jenkins9:02 Ron Waterman vs Matt Asher11:51 Ving Tran 13:16 going back to work after tournament 14:24 Went to UFC 19 to introduce himself16:11 manager Phyllis Lee 19:44 receiving black belt under Leo Sawyer 20:47 Nate Marquardt 25:23 getting the call for UFC 20 27:46 Ron waterman vs Chris Condo30:26 Ron Waterman vs Andre Roberts34:34 Ron Waterman vs Tim Lajcik39:17 pay for early UFC 39:32 receiving messages from Eddie Goldman40:16 Ron Waterman vs Satoshi Honma41:00 trained Shane Carwin for Brock Lesnar fight 44:20 refusing to sell soul in WWE 48:31 WWE occult imagery 49:49 using submissions in fights 50:58 training with Brendan Schaub52:19 Ron Waterman vs Valentijn Overeem55:00 experience with Jon Jones 55:41 relationship with Mark Coleman 57:14 Ron Waterman vs Jerry Vrbanovich59:09 Ron Waterman vs Jun Ishii1:00:47 experience with the Yakuza 1:01:41 Ron Waterman vs Mirco Crocop1:04:40 fighters greasing before fights 1:05:53 Japanese fighters struggling in the US 1:07:31 Ron Waterman vs Keigo Takamori1:10:13 never giving take down points 1:10:54 Ron Waterman vs Kevin Randleman1:14:15 Ron Waterman vs Tsyoshi Kosaka1:15:40 cancelled Pancrase event 1:16:20 Ron Waterman vs Rico Rodriguez1:19:11 injuries going into rematch with Rico Rodriguez1:21:51 Ron Waterman vs Roger Gracie1:24:54 Alternate for at a YAMMA pit fighting event 1:27:32 interview wrap up/final message 1:31:20 outro/closing thoughtsSupport the show

Send a textEp 301 Rafiel Torre RoundTable Gerald Strebendt, Chris Brennan & Eddy Millis joined us to discuss their fallen friend Rafiel Torre Stebendt, Brennan & Millis recall their time with Rafiel Torre along with their current day feelings for him. The episode is filled with explosive truths, damning lies and fun stories involving Rafiel Torre. The RoundTable format is going to reoccur once a month, please tellUs who you would like to see on it #rafieltorre #joerogan #eddiebravo Please follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your support0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 1:18 interview start 2:18 meeting Rafiel Torre 4:36 emotions listening to Rafiel Torre interview 5:53 Rafiel Torre affiliations with Chris Brennan 7:58 Eddy Millis reaction to interview 12:36 Rafiel Torre stand up 14:52 landing a journalism job 18:19 rolling with Chris Brennan22:41 James Krause betting scandal 27:57 Joe Francis being extorted 30:45 Tapout crew getting screwed out of money 34:32 Eddie Bravo confronting Rafiel Torre36:42 Eddie Bravo K1 match 37:31 Rafiel Torre living situation 40:10 Angel Richards/ Life insurance policy 43:26 going into the Rafiel Torre interview 46:22 MMA’s first sports journalist 51:55 Lucas Brennan article 52:44 airplane incident 53:17 Wet & Wild fake fight 59:22 Chris Brennan’s thought after interview 1:00:38 reason for throwing fake fight 1:02:16 Rico Rodriguez reaction to Rafiel Torre1:06:06 Rafiel Torre potential to be released 1:06:41 False claims of being Brazilian 1:07:33 the Rise and fall of Rafiel Torre 1:09:13 Instructional tapes and T shirts 1:10:23 being pioneers of the sport 1:12:25 paying to fight in tournament 1:13:32 Rafiel Torre backing up Chris Brennan 1:15:26 Gerald Strebendt BJJ tournament incident 1:17:16 family gathering after Rafiel Torre arrest 1:20:00 Angel Richard’s current life 1:22:13 Brian Richard’s ashes 1:23:24 Rafiel Torre feelings towards Chris Brennan 1:24:55 Eddy Millis current thoughts on Rafiel Torre 1:25:39 Gerald Strebendt thoughts on Rafiel Torre 1:29:18 interview wrap up 1:34:29 outro/ closing thoughtsSupport the show

Send a textEp 300 Rafiel Torre Corcoran PrisonRafiel Torre is a notorious figure from the “Dark Ages” of the sport; a revered journalist, an alleged Black Belt and a powerfully connected insider to some of the sports biggest names. Rafiel Torre was arrested in 2003 and sentenced to life in prison in 2005 He has been taken to task publicly by Joe Rogan, Eddie Bravo and Eddy Millis At his trial Gerald Strebendt, Chris Brennan and Joe Rogan testified against him This is the 1st time that Torre has ever had a voice to recall his place at a time in the sport that is considered “the beginning of the “Modern Era” #joerogan #eddiebravo 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:33 Disclaimer 2:26 interview start 4:41 beginnings in MMA 5:27 beginnings into combat journalism6:26 receiving invite to the first ADCC8:02 Rafiel Torre vs  Beau Hershberger9:26 creating “Lessons in humility” 11:02 working for ADcombat13:13 rolling with Royler Gracie 15:20 friendship with Mark Kerr 16:55 Mark Kerr vs Igor Borisov 17:47 relationship with Rico Rodriguez 18:35 Kazushi Sakuraba vs Renzo Gracie 21:25 rolling with Rico Rodriguez and Mark Kerr 23:19 Ken Shamrock and Mark Hall KOTC incident 24:32 Cobra Fighting Federation 25:25 Chuck Liddell Anal comments 26:22 Chuck Liddell street fights 26:56 meeting Joe Rogan 27:52 meeting Eddie Bravo 29:37 Mark Kerr substance issues 32:19 Mark Coleman and Mark Kerr relationship 33:14 experience with Ryan Gracie34:32 Kumite event in the woods 36:00 meeting Gerald Strebendt 38:32 backstage during Pride 11 40:29 Heath Herring vs Tom Erikson 41:10 Bruce Buffer Chris Brennan incident 42:49 Mario Sperry vs Mark Kerr 44:04 Mark Kerr vs Ricardo Arona 45:32 Mario Sperry choked out during match 46:19 noticing Mark Kerr’s struggles with opioids 47:22 relationship with Eddy Millis 49:39 called out by Eddie Bravo over Blackbelt 51:01 relationship with Larry Landless 51:11 relationship with the Tapout crew 52:03 Rampage Jackson airplane incident 55:56 Rampage Jackson gold chains 56:51 favorite “Lessons in humility” 58:35 Trained Luigi Fioravante59:22 Journalism during dark age of MMA 1:00:05 dealing with Joe Son and Kimo Leopoldo 1:01:32 never getting to interview Ken Shamrock 1:02:03 Rafiel Torre vs Ioka Tianuu1:06:51 changes made from being in Prison 1:08:56 message to friends from MMA industry 1:10:24 attending UFC 31:12:01 clarifying Eddie Bravo comments 1:14:39 reason for cutting ties with Eddie Bravo 1:15:31 issue with a Correctional officer 1:20:22 Dorm living vs Cell living1:21:53 Prison politics 1:25:00 interactions with Dana Stubblefield 1:27:01 doing Magic in prison 1:30:03 struggles going into interview 1:30:36 finding a purpose performing Magic 1:33:19 going to dark places mentally 1:34:33 interview wrap up 1:35:11 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtubSupport the show

Send a textEp 299 Jorge Rivera Career Deep Dive Jorge Rivera is a legend of the Atlantic Northeast MMA scene His career started with the legendary Jason Delucia and continues through one of the sports most respected trainers Keith Rockel. Throughout his career Jorge Rivera has faced some of the world’s toughest fighters; Tim Sylvia, Rich Franklin and Anderson Silva are just a few of the names. Rivera bout with Lee Murray and the reputation that Murray carried are talked about extensively in this episode Ep 299 Jorge Rivera Career Deep Dive Jorge Rivera 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:58 interview start 1:38 learning from Jason DeLucia 5:30 Judo Black belt Keith Racquel 5:58 training partner Doug Kalindo8:30 Jorge Rivera vs Elias Rivera 10:54 Jorge Rivera vs Tim Sylvia 14:06 Vale Tudo Rhode Island 4 man tournament 16:25 Jorge Rivera vs Brandon Lee Hinkle19:40 Jorge Rivera vs Anatoly Yaschenko21:05 being a B side fighter early on 22:36 Training with Matt Phiney23:32 relationship with Tom Haffers25:02 Jorge Rivera vs Joe Nye25:48 Jorge Rivera vs Travis Lutter27:30 thoughts on greasing for fights 28:29 Jorge Rivera vs Andy Landen30:39 Jorge Rivera vs Solomon Hutcherson31:30 getting the call from the UFC 33:15 Jorge Rivera vs David Loiseau36:29 Jorge Rivera vs Lee Murray 38:36 interactions with Lee Murray 41:23 fighting in an empty arena 46:19 Jorge Rivera vs James Gabert50:18 Jorge Rivera vs Mark Weir52:22 Jorge Rivera vs Rich Franklin 54:46 Jorge Rivera vs Alex Reid57:44 Jorge Rivera vs Anderson Silva 1:00:30 Promoter Mario Ramos & Zach Tesler 1:00:57 experience with Dr Lenny Waice1:03:23 Jorge Rivera vs Danny Vega1:06:13 Street Wise Fight gear sponsor 1:08:20 Ranger Up clothing sponsor 1:11:52 Jorge Rivera vs Dennis Hallman1:12:47 Jorge Rivera vs Chris Leben1:14:06 cancelled bout with Alessio Sakara1:15:16 Jorge Rivera vs Tim Williams1:16:14 Jorge Rivera vs Kendall Grove 1:19:01 interview wrap up 1:19:29 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 298 Brad Imes Career Deep Dive Brad Imes has a story that very few can even imagine. Within 15 months of stepping into his first MMA gym, Imes found himself in the finals of The Ultimate Fighter reality show. Brad Imes recalls his time sparring with Tim Sylvia and Ben Rothwell at the Miletich Fighting Systems. Brad Imes the man tied with the most Gogoplata finishes in MMA gave us an incredible interview. Ep 298 Brad Imes Career Deep Dive0:00 MMA history podcast intro  0:32 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 0:53 interview start 5:05 beginnings in MMA7:50 having vertigo after cracked skull 11:05 Cardio training for fights 14:29 becoming a fighter 16:59 Brad Imes vs Terroll Dees18:07 Brad Imes vs Jeremy Freitag23:16 alleged bout with Frank Slaughter24:48 Brad Imes vs Lance Pele26:14 Brad Imes vs Mike Dexter29:55 trying out for TUF season 2 35:36 filming timeline for TUF38:01 living in TUF house 40:43 Brad Imes vs Rob MacDonald43:24 getting pick last on TUF 45:41 Brad Imes vs Seth Petruzelli47:33 thoughts on Matt Hughes 49:25 training with Jeremy Horn 51:36 friendship with Ben Rothwell 52:49 training with Justin Eilers53:49 Miletich camp toughness 56:32 Tony Fryklund 58:40 training with Josh Neer 59:13 Brad Imes vs Rashad Evans1:02:26 Brad Imes vs Dan Christianson1:06:28 Nick Diaz and Joe Riggs hospital fight 1:07:41 getting cut from the UFC 1:08:42 incorrectly listed fights on record 1:09:02 injuring knee 1:11:53 Brad Imes vs Greg Hammer1:16:44 Brad Imes vs Heath Hearing 1:20:57 Vince Lucero1:21:18 Brad Imes vs Zach Jenson1:24:36 cancelled bout with Rueben Villarreal1:26:27 capturing 2 gogoplatas as a heavyweight 1:28:37 Brad Imes vs Roy Nelson 1:30:54 dealing with brain trauma after fighting 1:33:15 current life 1:38:57 interview wrap up 1:39:15 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 297 Brian McLaughlin Deep Dive Brian McLaughlin is one of the sports unsung heroes; most widely known as Jim Miller’s BJJ coach, Brian takes us through some incredible highs when competing against names such as Wilson Reis and Ryan Hall.  We also hit a few controversial topics like Gene Simco, Dillon Danis and the often times “hard attitudes” of the Atlantic Northeast. It’s a great listen with a legend of the sport 0:00 MMA history podcast intro  2:49 Joey Venti’s guest introduction 3:13 interview start 5:14 connecting with Jim Miller 11:49 experience with the Diaz brothers 14:00 early BJJ coach 34:03 disclosure clearing up accusation 38:23 exposing fake black belts 39:52 experience with Dillon Danis 44:09 Dillon Danis career defining injuries 46:52 Mike Davis interaction with Dillon Danis48:58 Dillon Danis reaction to criticism 54:01 training prior to first fight 57:38 training with Dan Sanchez58:57 training with Shawn Alvarez 1:02:16 experience with Lou Neglia 1:03:32 Brian McLaughlin vs Carmine Zocchi 1:08:46 Brian McLaughlin vs Ryan Hall 1:13:16 donating prize money from Ryan Hall match 1:16:14 thoughts on Lloyd Irving 1:18:28 Lloyd Irving addressing allegations 1:21:00 gyms running as a MLM 1:22:51 Brian McLaughlin vs Mike Tierney 1:26:04 Brian McLaughlin vs David Sachs 1:28:52 trying out for TUF 1:31:57 Brian McLaughlin vs Brandon Garner 1:41:37 Brian McLaughlin vs Rene Nazare 1:47:51 not having a fight manager 1:49:02 offered fight with Edson Barboza 1:50:21 Brian McLaughlin vs Wilson Reis 1:57:52 mentally losing fights 2:02:29 dealing with Gary Foreman 2:06:36 Brian McLaughlin vs Luis Felix 2:11:34 Sherdog picture 2:13:14 interview wrap up 2:14:50 outro/ closing thoughts Ep 297 Brian McLaughlinPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 296 Jeremy Horn Early 2000’s Jeremy Horn joins us again to discuss a part of his career that saw him do battle with a who’s who of the worlds best fighters. Imagine a 24 month period of fighting Antonio Nogueira, Yoshihisa Yamamoto, Kiyosho Tamura, Ricardo Arona 2x, Eugene Jackson, Randy Couture & Akira Shoji… that is what we discuss in this episode. Jeremy Horn also gives his opinion on some of the lasting conflicts within the Miletich Fighting SystemsEp 296 Jeremy Horn Fighting in the early 2000’s 0:00 MMA history podcast intro 0:33 Joey Venti’s guest introduction0:50 interview start 1:24 gyms having coaches that don’t compete 3:14  creating strategy’s for fighters 6:22 Robbie Lawler vs Evan Tanner 9:01 Tim Sylvia comments about Matt Hughes 11:35 First time training Tim Sylvia 13:13 Mark Hughes weigh in rumor 14:47 oppon15:50 Jeremy Horn vs John Marsh 17:31 Jeremy Horn vs Nogueira 22:58 Jeremy Horn vs Yoshi Yamamoto24:21 Don Frye comment 24:53 Jeremy Horn vs Kiyoshi Tamura 26:35 Jeremy Horn vs Ricardo Arona 28:42 Jeremy Horn vs Eugene Jackson 29:55 Jeremy Horn vs Chris Haseman30:35 Jeremy Horn vs Randy Couture 34:35 UFC bringing back Jeremy Horn 35:16 Jeremy Horn vs Elvis Sinosic35:57 Jens Pulver Matt Hughes mutual opponents 37:26 BJ Penn grease rumors 37:51 having a style that worked well in Japan 40:43 Jeremy Horn vs Ricardo Arona rematch 42:17 strength of Steve Rusk 44:22 Laverne Clark ring IQ 48:23 sparring with Laverne Clark 51:01 payment issues with Brad Kholer 53:25 Jeremy Horn vs Dan Theodore 56:58 Jeremy Horn vs Akira Shoji 58:00 Jeremy Horn vs Gilbert Yvel 1:00:05 Jeremy Horn vs Chalid Arrab 1:01:26 fighting in the Dutch MMA scene 1:04:00 thankful for the fight game 1:05:15 Tyrone Robert’s 1:07:00 Josh Neer 1:07:42 Jason Black 1:08:47 interview wrap up 1:09:21 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 295 Josh Neer BEFORE the UFC Josh Neer burst onto the professional scene boasting a record that had just under 100 amateur fights. Neer’s MMA journey had him training in Canada with Joe Doerkson as well as many years at the Miletich Fighting Systems Chris Lytle joins us on this fantastic listen documenting the Indy grind of the Midwest Ep 295 Josh Neer BEFORE the UFC 0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:36 interview start 3:06 amateur career 7:10 experience at Toad Hollar8:22 early training 11:34 Josh Neer vs Houston Alexander 14:52 receiving nick name “the dentist”16:10 not paid for bare knuckle fight 19:02 turning pro in MMA 21:18 Josh Neer vs Anthony Smith 23:16 turning down GSP fight due to name value 27:17 Josh Neer vs Joe Jordan 29:18 Josh Neer vs Joe Chacon 31:03 Josh Neer vs Spencer Fisher33:05 relationship with Jeremy Stephens 34:50 Jeremy Stephen’s vs Mike Perry 38:13 Miletich camp initiation 43:16 50 fight club mentality 46:03 Josh Neer vs Kyle Jensen 46:56 Josh Neer vs Anthony Macias 47:49 Josh Neer vs David Gardner 48:45 Josh Neer vs Mark Bear 51:23 Josh Neer vs Derrick Noble 52:36 Jeff Perez boxing coach 53:43 student Johnny Hopper 54:50 Josh Neer vs Todd Kiser 56:17 not matched properly in the UFC 56:58 relationship with the Diaz brothers 59:19 training cardio at a high level 1:00:27 interview wrap up1:00:56 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 294 Brock Larson BEFORE the UFC 50 Fight Club member Brock Larson is a stand out fighter from the tough Midwest grind. Larson started his career as a training partner to Sean Sherk and advanced himself to being a top 5 ranked fighter. Dave Menne, Brock Lesnar & Brad Kohler are all talked about with some killer stories. Ep 294 Brock Larson BEFORE the UFC  0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:36 interview start 1:39 starting wrestling at an early age 3:36 plugs/ promotions4:35 beginnings in MMA 7:33 training with Sean Sherk12:10 Sean Sherk vs Matt Hughes 12:45 training with Matt Hughes 13:59 connecting with Dave Camarillo 15:14 Brock Larson vs Josh Hartwell 17:55 Brock Larson vs Luke Caudillo21:47 compliment from Brock Lesnar 23:00 starting career at 185lbs 23:59 Brock Larson vs Kyle Olsen 27:13 relationship with Travis Fulton 28:59 starting fight career with 3 straight wins31:40 8 man tournament in Oklahoma 32:59 ICC trials event 34:16 Brock Larson vs Alex Gasson36:31 Brock Larson vs James Fuller 37:5638:36 fighting with a manager 41:44 Nick Gamba and Jeff Paul45:39 never fighting Josh Neer 48:47 Josh Neer vs Nick Thompson49:53  Nick Thompson career highlights 54:04 Brock Larson vs Stephan Potvin 56:50 Brock Larson vs Miguel Cooley 57:49 training with Dave Menne 1:00:27 training with Kyle Jensen 1:01:35 experience with Jacob Vulkman 1:03:43 Damarques Johnson 1:05:23 Brock Larson vs Ryan Jensen 1:08:39 winning an 8 man tournament 1:12:22 Nick Thompson vs Josh Neer1:14:46 Brock Larson vs Jon Fitch 1:20:23 student Adam McDonough1:23:25 student Angel Pacheco 1:24:15 Brock Larson vs Kenneth Allen 1:27:28 WEC fighters compared to UFC fighters1:30:28 Brad Kohler faking heart attack 1:33:43 being a 50 fight club member 1:34:37 interview wrap up 1:35:48 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 292 Shark Tank with Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez Shark Tank owner Eddy Millis and Jay Martinez are two influential members of the early NHB movement in California  Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez share their stories from an era that is referred to as the golden era of Mixed Martial Arts Ep 292 Shark Tank w/ Eddy Millis & Jay Martinez 0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:41 interview start 2:02 beginnings in jiu jitsu 5:30 early NHB fights 7:39 having bare knuckle fights in the gym 9:11 California being a hub for fighting 10:55 kickboxing in Europe 11:49 Jay Martinez fight record 13:45 Genki Sudo15:26 Jay Martinez joining the Shark tank 17:13 taking short notice fights 19:17 fighting in Hawaii 21:13 struggles fighting in Mexico 24:20 using leg locks early in MMA 27:32 Jay Martinez vs Andy Wang 34:01 Jay Martinez vs Justin Davis 35:51 fighting under headbutt rule set 38:13 pancrase blue envelope 39:14 Phyllis Lee in Japan 40:29 American spy in Japanese locker room 43:06 Roppongi story 44:12 Jason Delucia44:55 training Gary Goodridge 45:37 finding Mighty Mo48:25 Training Kimo Leopoldo 52:06 Bob Sapp story 54:18 K1 fighters gambling entire fight purse 55:18 Jay Martinez fight pay57:37 Bob Sapp walking away from fight 58:19 experience in the Netherlands 1:02:42 Mark Hall issues with Ken Shamrock 1:05:06 training at the Lions den 1:07:16 Lions den initiation process 1:08:42 Jay Martinez experience with Ken Shamrock 1:14:17 Mark Coleman sparring at the Lions den 1:16:20 interactions with Bob Shamrocks 1:16:42 connecting with the Lions Den1:20:03 Joe Son story 1:21:37 Rafiel Torre story  1:25:38 Gerald Strebendt 1:25:53 Cameron Earl 1:27:13 experience with Bobby Hoffman 1:32:00 fighter quitting after 1 hit 1:34:00 dealings with Ryan Greg 1:34:43 Travis Fulton controversy 1:37:48 training John Alessio 1:38:27 Pete Cunningham 1:39:24 training Josh Hall 1:43:06 Airplane ride story 1:44:11 Danny Fowl 1:46:08 interview wrap up 1:50:30 outro/ closing thoughtsPlease follow our channels on Follow the MMA History Team on Instagram: MMA Detective Mike Davis @mikedavis632 Co Host Joey Venti @aj_ventitreRecords Keeper-  Andrew Mendoza @ambidexstressSocial Media Manager Andy Campbell  @martial_mindset_Thumbnails Julio Macedo  @juliosemacentoInstagram https://www.instagram.com/mmahistorypodcast?igsh=aHVweHdncXQycHBy&utm_source=qrSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb?si=aL3D5Y3aTDi-PQZdweWL8gApple Podcast MMA History PodcastYouTube https://youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcast?si=bj1RBXTZ2X82tv_JOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-powerMike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 #MMA #UFC #NHB #MixedMartialArts #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #MMAPodcast #fightpodcast Thank You for your supportSupport the show

Send a textEp 291 Mac Danzig UFC Years 0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:32 interview start 3:44 plugs/ promotions 6:27 jiu jitsu for the current generation 8:54 backroom bonus from the UFC 12:02 Mac Danzig vs Josh Neer 15:16 suffering 3 straight losses in the UFC18:26 opportunities from Joe Silva 21:12 firing Monte Cox as a manager 23:17 moving to Los Angeles 26:31 Hoelzer Reich clothing controversy 37:28 coached by Gil Martinez and Gray Maynard40:46 Jay Hieron and Myke Pile 45:32 Mac Danzig vs Matt Wiman53:36 Mac Danzig vs Joe Stevenson1:02:31 cancelled bout with Cowboy Cerrone 1:07:40 coach Shawn Tompkins passes away 1:14:28 Mac Danzig vs Matt Wiman1:19:09 coaches that never competed 1:25:40 Chad George vs Scott Jorgensen 1:27:15 reconnecting with Rico Chiaperelli 1:32:44 Mac Danzig vs Efrain Escudero1:40:44 fighters not fighting full potential in gym 1:43:40 having a high ring IQ 1:47:08 offering to fight in BKFC1:48:46 female fighter contracts 1:54:11 interview wrap up1:54:33 outro/ closing thoughtsMac Danzig joins us for a 3rd time abs we dig into the start of his UFC career. There is a reason Danzig has been joined us 3x and this interview does not disappoint. We discuss Joe Stevenson, Matt Wiman, Shawn Tompkins as well as his training partners Jay Hieron & Mike Pyle. This is an awesome listen Subscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreRagdollMMA - Thumbnail Andrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #FightPodcastSupport the show

Send a textEp 290 Kazja Kage Kombat & Conspiracy When it comes to pioneers of the early No Holds Barred days, the name Kazja is associated with both progress and controversy. Kazja gave us a look at what it was like to be on the front lines fighting the athletic commissions tooth and nail on every decision and how he was able to subvert their system. Some of the sports biggest names attended and participated in his events and in this interview we remember what is considered the sports “Golden Era” Ep 290 Kazja Kaged Kombat & Conspiracy0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:45 interview start 1:46 plugs/ promotions 4:17 introduction to submission fighting 8:04 first MMA event Kazja hosted 12:00 inspiration behind octagon cage 13:25 shoot fighter movie using cage 17:55 dealings with Joe Son 22:47 stick fighting tournament 23:58 Tapout similar logo to MatRat clothing28:13 screwed on deal by Charles Mask Lewis 32:56 relationship with Punkass 34:30 relationship with Scrape 36:23 struggles hosting first event 43:43 Beau Hershberger 44:48 cops showing up after event 48:32 thoughts on cobra fighting championship 52:38 Hitman fight promotions 53:39 Ryan Chenoweth55:55 LA times covering fight event 1:00:55 dealings with Joe Pardo 1:02:35 experience with Tracy Hess 1:04:39 Erica Montoya1:10:58 thoughts on Ryan Greg 1:11:14 thoughts on Jeremy Williams 1:12:10 Karo Parisian early start 1:15:18 Harout Terzyan1:16:54 Kanji Ishibashi1:17:05 Toby Imada 1:17:52 Sean Loeffler1:18:39 Rafiel Torre 1:19:15 Lodune Sincaid1:19:56 Brian Peterson1:20:06 Extreme Pancrase 11:23:53 fallout with Ryan Channel 1:25:22 Jeremy Jackson 1:27:09 Joe Moriera vs Joe Son1:30:37 Shamrock 20001:32:09 Jason Maxwell 1:32:43 Toby Imada taking tough fights 1:34:54 Shannon Ritch1:37:07 Mike Bitonio 1:38:17 backstage at WCC event 1:41:29 dealings with Armando Garcia 1:45:52 John Matua vs Tank Abbott 1:48:02 interview wrap up 1:50:31 outro/ closing thoughts Subscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #FightPodcastSupport the show

Send a textEp 289 Cecil Peoples w/ Herb Dean Deep DiveCecil Peoples joins us to discuss the developmental days of mixed martial arts and its transition into modern day fighting. We delve into stories about Frank Dux, Zane Frazier and the reputation of Gene LeBellHerb Dean sat in on this special episode with a true pioneer of the sport Cecil Peoples Ep 289 Cecil Peoples w/ Herb Dean Career Deep Dive  0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:41 interview start 2:00 beginnings in martial arts 4:44 drafted in to the Army 5:58 Reffed the 1st Muay Thai rule event in USA 9:06 Herb Dean meeting Cecil Peoples 12:22 Cecil Peoples importance to martial arts 14:04 Herb Dean becoming a referee 16:09 Herb Dean on growing as a referee 18:55 Tim Sylvia arm break 26:25 Antonio Nogueira snapped arm 28:50 having to pull fighters off during submission 32:24 Manson Gibson35:50 Cyrille Diabate vs Rick Roufus38:45 watching the first UFC on tv39:58 Zane Frazier vs Frank Dux 52:55 Steven Seagal $50k challenge 54:16 Gene LeBell’s reputation 1:00:19 auditioning for a movie 1:04:47 understanding Jiu Jitsu before UFC 1:08:35 interactions with the Shamrocks 1:10:43 Erik Paulson 1:13:25 John McCarthy becoming involved in UFC1:18:58 thoughts on Ron Van Clief 1:22:00 Harold Haward and Bart Vale 1:23:00 Ray Wizard in the UFC 1:25:41 Count Donte 1:31:14 Eric Paulson vs James Warring 1:32:04 Herb Dean pulled over for speeding 1:33:57 interview wrap up 1:36:42 outro/ closing thoughtsSubscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #FightPodcastSupport the show

Send a textEp 288 Homer Moore Career & Controversy Homer Moore started him MMA journey with a Richard Hamilton who was a criminal coach enrolled in the witness protection programHe later connected with Sammy the Bull Gravano where he was arrested for an over a decade old m*rderHomer Moore takes us through these troubling times while also addressing why he tried to street fight Rick Roufus, getting targeted at the Lions Den and the truth about the notorious rigged fight involving Chael Sonnen. This interview is insane…. Ep 288 Homer Moore Career and Controversy 0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast intro 1:14 guest introduction1:36 interview start 1:40 learning wrestling early on 3:14 team mates with Frank Trigg4:38 losing to Ray Miller at the Olympic qualifiers 12:59 never receiving invite for the RAW team 14:27 experience with Frank Trigg 19:59 training with Richard Hamilton25:42 true side of Richard Hamilton 36:39 Homer Moore vs Dan Severn 39:10 first fight off record 41:23 training at the lions den 45:34 Tied with the motorcycle gang Devil Dogs50:32 experience with Sammy Gravano 54:39 Devil Dogs arrest in 20041:00:09 becoming a male stripper 1:04:20 Homer Moore vs David Harris1:06:34 getting shot at 1:08:27 Homer Moore vs Kauai Kupihea1:09:51 being offered alcohol in Mexico 1:11:47 Homer Moore vs Shane Johnson1:13:34 Homer Moore vs Allen Sullivan1:14:37 fighters pulling out before match 1:15:32 picking a fight with Rick Roufus1:19:21 having to be separated from Ricardo Texiera1:21:08 sparring at the Lions Den before fight 1:27:08 injuring ankle before Evan Tanner fight 1:35:10 post fight comment about Jiu Jitsu 1:37:05 murder investigation from 19991:38:01 wrongfully arrested in 2013 1:46:23 held in jail for 2 years 1:48:24 corruption in the justice system 1:58:57 yelling racial slurs at Benson Henderson 2:00:07 beef with Joe Riggs 2:02:02 Homer Moore vs Jim Theobold2:05:50 training with Igor Zinoviev2:06:17 Homer Moore vs Chael Sonnen2:14:59 Homer Moore vs Jeremy Horn2:16:14 outro/ closing thoughts Subscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #FightPodcastSupport the show

Send a textEp 287 Apy Echteld M1 Global & FedorApy Echteld comes from the rich history of the famous Dutch promotion 2 Hot 2 Handle as well as managing Fedor Emelianenko Echteld walks us through an incredibly difficult year for M1 (2010) while also balancing the management aspects of Fedor. The questions in this interview are not easy to answer and the stress that Echteld dealt with comes though in his answers. This is a peak behind the scenes that we never expected the ability to record Ep 287 Apy Echteld M1 & Fedor0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast intro 1:14 guest introduction1:41 interview start 2:26 differences between mafias 4:31 Japanese promotions going to war6:26 Fuji TV competing event against Inoki8:02 Fedor Emelianenko pay for fights 8:40 using K1 to promote Sambo 10:07 interactions with Vladimir Pogodin11:04 managing Gegard Mousasi14:05 fighters becoming jealous15:41 Dana whites comments on Fedor Emelianenko16:45 why Fedor Emelianenko never made it to the UFC17:25 dealings with Obat Savitsky19:15 conflicts bringing Pride Bushido to Europe21:24 being aware of Pride FC’s decline 23:33 Sakikibara never charged for a crime 25:19 offers for fixed fights 27:33 signing Fedor Emelianenko to BoDog29:21 Randy Couture Fedor Emelianenko photoshoot 31:19 Fedor Emelianenko’s intentions after Pride FC36:18 Mitchell Maxwell part of K1 purchase 39:15 Monte Cox CEO and president of M1 Global  42:03 story behind the Affliction photoshoot 44:50 Affliction attorney also working for UFC 45:21 potential location for Emelianenko vs Couture 47:55 Bas Boon’s attempt to land Fedor Emelianenko 48:47 dealings with Miro Mijatovic50:13 Miro Mijatovic death threats of contract 52:33 relationship with Vadim Finkelchtein53:40 relationship with Jerry Millen54:07 revisiting the UFC contract negotiations 56:28 UFC creating Conflict with Apy Echteld1:04:50 thoughts on Mousasi1:09:29 Dutch Mafia having experience  1:11:00 asking Alistair Overeem to take steroid test 1:11:37 M1 Global conflict with Strike Force 1:13:54 M1 Global financial struggles 1:15:23 Fedor Emelianenko M1 public stock1:17:59 secret service taking pictures of crowd 1:20:53 Cindy Dandois vs Yana santos1:21:54 M1 Global ending relationship with Strike Force 1:23:30 MMA not developing1:28:49 2 hot 2 handle  1:31:00 Netherlands issues with Bareknuckle fighting1:32:54 experience with Bob Schrijber 1:34:00 Bob Schrijber vs Gilbert Yvel 1:44:32 Ernesto Hoost vs ring announcer 1:45:12 interview wrap up/ outroSubscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Support the show

Send a textEp 286 Gan McGee Career Deep Dive Gan McGee takes us through his career that had him in a world title fight while also watching his Teamate Chuck Lidell become the sports first global superstar. Once again legendary coach John Hackleman sits in on another interview featuring one of his prized athletes. Ep 286 Gan McGee Career Deep Dive0:00 plugs/ promotions 0:42 MMA history podcast  intro 1:14 Joey Venti’s guest introduction1:37 interview start 1:57 wrestling champ in college 7:03 California having good fighters?????7:29 connecting with John Hackleman8:25 Glover Teixeira vs Eric Schwartz at gym 10:02 John Hackleman intro 11:25 first time seeing Gan McGee enter gym 14:27 Chuck Liddell drawing people into the gym 16:16 fighting navy seals on the street 20:06 Chuck Liddell in a street fight 21:40 Chris Kyle involved in street fight 23:02 Gan McGee vs Sam Adkins26:39 Gan McGee vs Rickey Herro27:32 Gan McGee vs Aaron Brink29:06 Marc Hall as a promoter 30:08 Aaron Brink controversies 31:59 cross training at different gyms 37:09 American Top Team funding opportunities 39:20 IFC 8 man tournament 41:39 Gan McGee vs Paul Buentello42:13 Knees to grounded opponent banned 44:47 the Gan McGee rule 47:00 Gan McGee vs Josh Barnett50:43 discovering Gan McGee has asthma51:53 Gan McGee vs Rocky Batastin54:29 Gan McGee vs Seth Petruzelli56:33 never fighting in KOTC58:07 interactions with Dana White 59:19 expectations of the WEC 1:02:13 Gan McGee vs Ron Faircloth1:03:57 difficulties finding fights 1:05:51 Gan McGee vs Pedro Rizzo1:09:20 Gan McGee vs Alexandre Dantas1:10:12 Gan McGee vs Tim Sylvia 1:11:55 Tim Sylvia testing positive after fight for PEDs 1:14:33 getting dropped from the UFC 1:18:15 Gan McGee vs Heath Hearing1:24:31 interactions with Corey Peterson 1:25:23 John Hackleman experience in Japan 1:26:42 Gan McGee vs Semmy Schilt1:29:03 avoiding interviews after fighting career1:31:06 sparring with Glover Teixeira1:33:00 favorite fight career memory 1:33:42 interview wrap up 1:34:06 outro/closing thoughts Subscribe to the Lytes Out Podcast:https://www.youtube.com/@MMAHistoryPodcastSocials: Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/groups/1027449255187255/?mibextid=oMANbwInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/lytesoutpodcast/iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lytes-out-podcast/id1568575809 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3q8KsfqrSQSjkdPLkdtNWb Mike - The MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Cash App - $mikedavis1231Venmo - Mike-Davis-63ZELLE: [email protected] / ph#: 773-491-5052 Follow the #LOP team on Instagram: Chris Lytle - Founder/Owner - @chrislightsoutlytle Mike Davis - MMA Detective - @mikedavis632 Joey Venti - Assistant - @aj_ventitreTyson Green - Producer - @ty.green.weldingAndrew Mendoza - Timestamps - @ambidexstressAndy Campbell - Social Media Manager - @martial_mindset_Josh Campbell - ContributerJohn Perretti - Historical ContributerOutro song: Power - https://tunetank.com/t/2gji/1458-power#MMA #UFC #NHB #LytesOutPodcast #LytesOut #MixedMartialArts #ChrisLytle #MMADetective #MikeDavis #MMAHistory #OldSchoolMMA #FiftyFightClub #MMAPodcast #FightPodcastSupport the show