In this episode, we check in on everything happening across the world of combat sports—and on the mat in real life.

We break down the latest Real American Freestyle (RAF) event, including the crossover matchup between Colby Covington vs. Luke Rockhold, what pace really means in wrestling and MMA, and how these exhibition-style events are helping keep American wrestlers active outside of Olympic cycles. We also dive into standout performances, controversies, and what’s next for RAF.

From there, we shift into college wrestling news, including major storylines out of Iowa, the upcoming Iowa vs. Penn State dual, rising stars making immediate impacts, and what elite coaching philosophies—like Cael Sanderson’s approach to pressure, effort, and perspective—can teach us about competing and life.

We also touch on:

• Roger Gracie entering a new chapter of life

• Kayla Harrison’s neck injury and what “out of competition” really means

• Rafael Lovato Jr. competing in college wrestling at 42 and what that says about lifelong learning in martial arts

• Brandon Reed earning his black belt and how modern jiu-jitsu promotions are evolving

To close things out, I get personal—sharing where I’m at mentally and physically as I prepare for an upcoming jiu-jitsu competition, reflecting on training, anxiety, preparation, and why competing keeps you honest about where you truly are.

Whether you’re a competitor, coach, or lifelong fan of combat sports, this episode is about more than results—it’s about pressure, preparation, perspective, and trusting the process.

Settle in. Let’s get into it. 🥋🎙️

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Combat Sports and Personal Journey

02:32 Analysis of the RAF Matchup: Covington vs. Rockhold

10:14 Wrestling News: Injuries and Controversies

15:21 The Impact of Neck Injuries in Combat Sports

20:17 College Wrestling Updates: Transfers and Performances

26:40 Upcoming Rivalry: Iowa vs. Penn State

29:40 Embracing Pressure as a Privilege

31:58 The Importance of Purpose in Competition

35:21 Learning from Frustration in Training

36:02 Pace Management and Flow in Grappling

37:48 Crossover Athletes and Their Unique Challenges

39:44 The Evolution of Competition in Jiu Jitsu

47:40 Personal Reflections on Competition and Training

51:53 The Role of Preparation in Success

54:55 The Differences Between Training and Competition

01:01:00 The Atmosphere of Major Competitions

What does a misfit reindeer with a glowing red nose have in common with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

More than you think.

In this holiday-inspired segment, we break down how the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer mirrors the journey of so many jiu-jitsu practitioners—and people in real life. From being overlooked and underestimated to finding your edge when the pressure is on, Rudolph’s story is the ultimate underdog lesson.

We connect classic holiday storytelling to the mats, using real jiu-jitsu examples like butterfly guard, X-guard, pressure passing, and guard retention, along with lessons from legends like Marcelo Garcia and Bernardo Faria. This episode is about learning to lean into what makes you different, trusting the process, and understanding that your biggest “weakness” might actually be your greatest advantage.

Whether you’re a white belt struggling to survive rounds, a competitor dealing with setbacks, or someone navigating challenges off the mat, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the fog has to roll in before your strengths shine.

🎧 Tune in, reflect, and take this lesson with you—on the mats and in life.

Chapters

00:00 The Season of Reflection

02:57 Embracing Differences in Jiu Jitsu

05:20 Finding Strength in Adversity

What does The Polar Express have to do with jiu-jitsu… and life?More than you think.In this holiday-themed monologue, we break down the deeper meaning behind The Polar Express—a story about belief, doubt, and choosing to stay on the ride when things feel uncertain—and how those same lessons show up on the jiu-jitsu mat and in everyday life.Jiu-jitsu doesn’t test your body first.It tests your belief.Belief in yourself when progress feels invisible.Belief when promotions don’t come.Belief when doubt is louder than confidence.Just like the bell in The Polar Express, not everyone hears the lessons. Only those willing to stay committed long enough can recognize them.This episode is for:• Practitioners questioning their progress• Anyone feeling stuck at the end of the year• Those choosing belief over comfort• Fighters on and off the matIf you’ve ever wondered whether the journey is worth it—this one’s for you.🎄 Happy Holidays, and keep believing. 🥋🚆