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What does it take to build a grappling life in a country at war, while balancing a demanding career, brutal training, and a completely different combat culture?  Vlad Polyanskiy, known as VladXBJJ, reveals why Ukraine's jiu-jitsu scene is unlike anywhere else in Europe - and why wrestling, sambo, and old-school discipline changed his game for good. Vlad is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Michelle and Maurice Gofar at Triforce Antwerp and is a longtime grappler who split his time between Belgium and Kiev before planting his roots in Eastern Europe. In this conversation, he opens up about the jump from hobbyist jiu-jitsu in Belgium to the highly competitive, cross-training-heavy world of Ukrainian grappling, where elite wrestlers and sambo athletes force you to evolve fast. You'll discover: Why training in Ukraine feels like getting stress-tested by monsters from day one How a serious wrestling room with national champions and Olympians transformed Vlad's takedowns, movement, and overall jiu-jitsu The Soviet-style coaching mentality, where structure, repetition, and complete commitment shape the best athletes Why kids' programs often matter more than adult classes in Eastern Europe What actually transfers when judo, sambo, and wrestling athletes enter BJJ - and what gets left behind The episode also pulls back the curtain on two of the most talked-about moments in Ukrainian grappling:  Craig Jones' wartime seminar in Kiev and the controversy around Gordon Ryan's attempted seminar.  Vlad explains what it felt like to train, organize, and live through those moments while missiles, shelling, and daily destruction were part of normal life. This is a rare inside look at the mindset, politics, and culture shaping Eastern European grappling right now. Essential listening if you care about BJJ, wrestling, Ukraine, or how combat sports actually develop outside the Western bubble.Here are Vlad Polyanskiy’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @vladxbjj If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla   Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap!

Is your jiu jitsu game missing a crucial piece? Grappling Eric joins Grapplezilla to explain why weak stand-up, jumping guard, and skipping takedown fundamentals can leave grapplers exposed.In this conversation, Eric—author of Your Jiu Jitsu Is Trash—shares how judo changed his perspective on martial arts and why skills like breakfalls, grip fighting, and takedowns belong in every grappler’s toolkit. They also discuss how competition rules shape grappling, what different countries’ styles can teach us, and why solid fundamentals matter in both sport and real-world situations.In this episode: - Why jumping guard can build risky habits - How judo, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu jitsu complement one another - Why learning to fall safely matters - How rule sets influence grappling strategy - The value of takedowns, grip fighting, and top control Whether you train BJJ, judo, wrestling, or mixed martial arts, this episode is for grapplers who want a more complete game—not just more techniques. Here are Eric Mina’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @grapplingeric Facebook: @grapplingeric If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. #JiuJitsu #BJJ #Judo #Grappling #Wrestling #bjjpodcast #grapplingpodcast

Doug Fournet proves why old-school grapplers still scare everyone: elite Sambo, brutal conditioning, and a mindset that makes excuses impossible. If you care about throws, leg locks, and what really works when the rules stop protecting you, this one is for you. Grapplezilla sits down with one of American combat sports' true pioneers, a longtime judoka, sambist, and MMA veteran who has represented the U.S. on some of the biggest international stages. Doug breaks down the real difference between Sambo and submission grappling, from the lightning-fast mat time that forces immediate attacks to the way international competitors keep evolving while Americans are left chasing last year's answers.You’ll discover why Sambo rewards instant transitions, how Doug built a throwing game that still works without a gi, and why Greco-Roman fundamentals gave him an edge in both jacket and no-gi worlds. He explains the windmill drop shoulder variation, the mechanics of duck unders, and the foot sweeps and hip throws that still make his game dangerous decades later.Doug also shares the hard truths behind training at the highest level: why conditioning matters more than style, how bad posture kills judo players when they cross over into Sambo, and why many BJJ habits collapse the moment a fighter can no longer rely on the guard or the rule set. We also get into the politics of scoring, the effect of leg grabs being removed from judo, and why rule changes often reward stalling instead of fighting. Then it gets personal. Doug opens up about the evolution of the Louisiana grappling scene, the rise of wrestling and jiu-jitsu in the state, the importance of breakfalls, and how training changes when your body starts keeping score. From the Battle of Brooklyn to the World Combat Games in Beijing, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons from a competitor who has lived the sport at every level. Essential listening if you love judo, Sambo, wrestling, or BJJ and want the kind of insight that only comes from someone who has spent 30+ years on the mat and still refuses to make excuses. Topics Covered: - Sambo vs. submission grappling - Judo throws and no-gi takedowns - Leg locks and rapid transitions - Greco-Roman wrestling fundamentals - Duck unders, foot sweeps, and hip throws - Conditioning for combat sports - Judo rule changes and leg grabs - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling crossover - Training longevity and injury prevention - The Louisiana grappling scene Here are Doug Fournet’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online:Instagram: @douglasfournet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61593817910288If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #Grapplezilla #GrapplezillaPodcast #DougFournet #AmericanSambo #CombatSambo #Sambo #RussianSambo #NoGiSambo #LouisianaGrappling #dougfournetsambo #sambolouisiana #usasambo #sambovideo #grappling

How do you perfectly blend the devastating takedowns and leg locks of Russian Sambo with the guard and positional control of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we sit down with absolute grappling royalty: Vlad Koulikov. Born in Moscow and trained at the legendary Sambo 70 academy, Vlad is a Master of Sport in Sambo, a BJJ Black Belt, and a Judo Black Belt. We dive deep into the creation of his signature "Sambo Fusion" system, what it was like competing in the "Wild West" days of early American submission grappling at Grapplers Quest, and how he translated authentic grappling techniques to the big screen in Hollywood blockbusters like John Wick and Salt. Whether you are looking to improve your stand-up game or want to understand the history of global grappling systems, this episode is a masterclass. Here are the Vlad Koulikov’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @vladkoulikov  YouTube: @sambofusion9486 TikTok: @vladislavkoulikov Website: https://sambofusion.com/  If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla   Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap!

The Hard Truth About Wrestling at the Highest Level in America. Greco-Roman wrestling is not just a style—it can rebuild your confidence, conditioning, and entire mindset.In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, Santonio Antoine Thompson Jr.—a four-time Greco-Roman All-American, 4-A state champion, world team qualifier, and Coach of Champions—breaks down how elite upper-body wrestling shaped him as an athlete, coach, and leader. From starting wrestling in seventh grade to catching up in Greco-Roman wrestling later than most, Santonio shares the hard-earned lesson that changed everything: you do not have to be the most experienced person in the room to become dangerous. You have to believe you belong there, stay consistent, and keep showing up when the work gets brutal. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why Greco-Roman wrestling made Santonio a better folkstyle wrestler and coach - The hand-fighting, pressure, and footwork details most fans never notice - How training with national- and world-level competitors changes your mentality - Why the financial reality of wrestling is far from glamorous - How Santonio balances being a full-time coach with competing at a high level - The mindset shift that helps wrestlers recover from losses without losing themselves - Why building an identity outside of wrestling is essential for long-term success Santonio also gets honest about the grind behind the medal chase, including the long gaps between matches, the pressure of qualifying, self-funded travel, and the challenges elite wrestlers face while trying to continue competing.But the deeper message goes beyond the mat. Santonio explains how he teaches athletes to compete against the best, develop confidence, and understand that their real legacy is not just their record—it is the person they become. This conversation is perfect for wrestlers, coaches, parents, athletes, and anyone pursuing excellence while staying grounded in who they are. Santonio Antoine Thompson Jr. is a full-time wrestling coach and active competitor known as Coach of Champions. A four-time Greco-Roman All-American, he travels, runs clinics, competes in grappling, and mentors the next generation of wrestlers in North Carolina. Here are Santonio Thompson Jr.’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @coachofchampions_ Facebook: @santonio.j.thompson YouTube: @CoachOfChampionz TikTok: @coachofchampions_ If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly.

How does the intense pressure of a Navy SEAL deployment translate to the MMA cage? In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we sit down with 10-year U.S. Navy SEAL veteran, BJJ Black Belt, and professional MMA fighter Mitch "Smashin' Frog" Aguiar. We dive deep into the mechanics of transitioning from Tier 1 military operations to the mats, analyzing how high-level grappling systems and takedown defense hold up in the chaos of modern combat sports. Mitch also unpacks the philosophy behind his "Violent Hippie" brand, the critical importance of his charity Adopt A Cop BJJ, and what it really means to live by the motto, "Be kind, or else." Whether you are a civilian stepping onto the mats for the first time or a veteran combat sports practitioner, this conversation is a masterclass in mindset, athletic development, and real-world grappling application. Here are the Mitch Aguiar’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @mitch_aguiar Instagram: @masf_supplementsInstagram: @violent__hippie   Instagram: @veteran_wellness_retreats YouTube: @MASFTV1Threads: @mitch_aguiar TikTok: @mitch_aguiar Website: https://masfsupplements.com/ Website: https://violenthippie.com/ Website: https://violenthippieacademy.com/ Website: https://www.veteranwellnessretreats.org/ Website: https://adoptacopbjj.org/ If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla   Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #bjj #mma #mitchaguiar #navyseals #navyseals #usnavy #navysealpodcast #grapplingpodcast #mmapodcast #grapplezilla #podcast #usmilitary

In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we sit down with a true martial arts unicorn: Leonardo "Léo" Leite. Léo is a multi-time Pan American Judo Champion, a two-time IBJJF World Champion, and a former Legacy FC Middleweight and Light Heavyweight MMA Champion. We dive deep into the technical and mental aspects of mastering three distinct combat sports. Léo breaks down exactly what it took to defeat the legendary Zé Mario Sperry just two weeks after receiving his black belt from Alexandre "Gigi" Paiva, and how he successfully adapted his elite Judo throwing mechanics for the MMA cage. We also explore his incredible, near-fatal four-year battle with tuberculosis and the sheer willpower it took to return to the cage at age 44 for one final victory. Whether you are a Judo purist, a BJJ practitioner, or an MMA fan, this episode is a masterclass in global grappling systems, competitive mindset, and overcoming unimaginable adversity. Here are Leo Leite’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @leoleiterj Instagram: @doubleljiujitsu X: @leoleiterj Facebook: @leonardo.leite.777 If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla  Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! Follow Grapplezilla for more world-class combat sports conversations. #bjj #jiujitsu #leoleite #mma #bjjpodcast #mmapodcast #judo #grappling #grapplingpodcast #legacyfc #bellator #brazilianjiujitsu #ibjjf

Kevin Jackson breaks down what it really takes to become a wrestling legend—and why the mindset behind Olympic gold matters just as much as the medal itself.  If you care about elite performance, championship culture, or coaching athletes under pressure, this conversation is packed with hard-earned lessons you can use immediately. From his 1–0 overtime Olympic final in Barcelona to leading Team USA’s rise in the 1990s, Coach KJ pulls back the curtain on the mental game, tactical adjustments, and team chemistry that fueled his career.  He also reveals how he helped shape world-class champions like Cael Sanderson and Henry Cejudo, and why the best coaches do more than teach technique—they build people.In this episode, you’ll discover: How Kevin approached the 1992 Olympics without feeling the pressure of being the favorite The adjustments that helped him win a brutal sudden-death Olympic final Why Team USA’s 1993 and 1995 world titles were about more than talent The coaching philosophy behind turning pressure into performance What changed when he moved from elite competitor to national freestyle coach How he helped athletes like Cael Sanderson, Henry Cejudo, Jake Varner, and Kyven Gadson reach their highest level Why today’s wrestling rules may create a more exciting sport than the era in which he competed How to build a team culture that produces both champions and strong human beings Coach KJ also opens up about what made the best American teams different, how he built culture at Iowa State and Michigan, and why wrestling should develop human beings—not just champions. This is essential listening for wrestlers, coaches, athletes, and anyone chasing excellence under pressure. Kevin Jackson brings the rare combination of Olympic pedigree, coaching wisdom, and honest perspective that makes this one of those conversations you’ll want to hear all the way through. Here are Kevin Jackson’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @coachkj__ X: @CoachKJ__ If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla   Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. #freestylewrestling #usawrestling #uswrestling #iowastatewrestling #michiganwrestling #ncaawrestling #rudis #flowrestling #collegewrestling #folkstylewrestling #grappling #mma #kevinjackson #coachkj #coachkevinjackson #olympicwrestling #teamusawrestling #wrestling

Chidaoba is not just Georgian wrestling - it is a brutal, beautiful system where sand, music, posture, and timing decide who gets thrown.  Grapplezilla and the Georgian Samurai break down why this ancient jacket grappling art produces such explosive trips, why its rhythm feels almost impossible to ignore, and how its mechanics quietly shaped modern judo, sambo, wrestling, and even MMA. The conversation starts with the hidden engine behind Chidaoba's most feared attacks: Sarma, the dynamic footwork and leg-tripping system that turns upper-body torque into devastating off-balancing.  From there, the discussion moves into the real reason Georgian grapplers look so hard to move - not just strength, but a style built around the middle distance, posture breaks, and forcing Kuzushi instead of waiting for it to happen naturally. You'll discover: Why live folk music from the Doli and Zurna changes the pace and aggression of a match How the sand itself shapes Chidaoba's sweeps, reaps, and leg blocks The biomechanical keys to over-the-back grips, body locks, and Georgian pickups Why Chidaoba creates such a dangerous, efficient bridge between jacket grappling and freestyle wrestling How rule changes in judo accidentally made the sport more Georgian, not less The episode also gets into the big modern questions: what happens when a BJJ black belt, wrestler, or MMA fighter tries to apply these throws without a jacket, why leg grabs and guard pulling change everything, and how Georgian athletes keep thriving under stricter rule sets by mastering timing, angle, and posture better than their opponents. And beyond the technique, this is a conversation about culture. Georgian dance, warrior tradition, unity, feasting, and the ritual of competition all reveal why combat in Georgia is never just about winning - it is about identity, rhythm, and respect. Perfect for grapplers, wrestlers, judoka, MMA athletes, and anyone obsessed with how traditional fighting systems actually work under pressure.Grapplezilla brings the technical questions and cross-discipline comparisons across judo, wrestling, sambo, BJJ, and MMA. The Georgian Samurai explains the mechanics, culture, and lived experience of Chidaoba from the inside, including how Georgian training, posture, and rhythm shape elite grapplers. Here are the Georgian Samurai’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @21c_wo YouTube: @21c_wo TikTok: @georgiansamurai   Website: 21cwo.com If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla  Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #Chidaoba #GeorgianWrestling #GrapplingTalk #JudoCommunity #Grapplezilla #georgiansamurai #grapplingpodcast #judo

In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, Josh sits down with Alonzo Davis, the mind behind Earn Your Gold, to break down the film study, systems, and technical details that are changing how wrestlers train and compete. Alonzo shares how he got into wrestling, why he became obsessed with film analysis, and how that obsession led him to create highly effective resources like Become a Low Risk, High Reward Wrestler, the Cross Wrist System, and his pressure-heavy wrestling concepts. We dig into: - Why wrestling film study is so powerful - The difference between reckless pressure and smart pressure - Why cross wrist control keeps showing up at every level- The biggest mistakes wrestlers make on entries - How to adapt wrestling principles for grappling and BJJ - What the future of wrestling content and tactics may look like If you care about wrestling technique, mat IQ, coaching systems, or building a more offensive style, this one is packed with high-level insight. Subscribe for more conversations with the people pushing wrestling forward. Here are Alonzo Davis's social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @earnyourgold YouTube: @earnyourgold Website: https://earnyourgoldbookstore.com/ If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #Grapplezilla #Wrestling #AlonzoDavis #EarnYourGold #FilmStudy #MatIQ #usawrestling #freestylewrestling #folkstylewrestling

Wrestling is not just a base for MMA - it is a complete rewiring of how you fight, think, and survive. Jacob Alexander Torres breaks down what it really takes to translate elite wrestling into the cage, from stance changes and fence work to the brutal adjustments that separate a great mat wrestler from a dangerous mixed martial artist. Raised in Ontario, shaped by boxing, and forged through years of grinding in the SFU wrestling room, Jacob shares how wrestling pulled him out of anger, chaos, and low confidence and gave him direction. He opens up about being chased back into the sport by a coach who saw something in him, then building himself into a national-level wrestler while adapting to the demanding blend of Canadian freestyle, Greco, and American folkstyle. You’ll discover: - Why folkstyle teaches a different kind of pressure, scrambling, and top control than freestyle - How wrestlers have to change their stance and body mechanics for MMA - Why head position, feints, and footwork make striking feed grappling instead of competing with it- How to attack on the cage without getting trapped by guillotines, triangles, or guard specialists - The role of upper-body trips, inside trips, and foot sweeps in modern MMA clinch work Jacob also talks about training at the UFC Performance Institute, working with pro fighters, and the mindset that keeps him evolving instead of getting stuck in what already works. He shares the unforgettable Olympic Trials run that changed how he sees competition, plus the conditioning methods, team rivalries, and daily discipline that fuel his relentless pace. This episode also highlights the bigger mission behind Jacob’s journey - using wrestling to build confidence, discipline, and hope for the next generation. He is not just chasing medals and future MMA opportunities, he is also stepping into coaching at SFU and helping others find the same path that changed his life. Essential listening if you care about wrestling, MMA, or the mindset it takes to turn adversity into momentum. Jacob Alexander Torres brings the kind of honest, technical, and motivational conversation that makes you want to train harder and think deeper about the fight game. Here are Jacob Torres’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @jacobalexandertorres Facebook: @jacob.a.torres.58 TikTok: @jacobalexandertorres If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below:https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #canadawrestling #wrestling #luttecanada #fighttalk #grapplezilla #grapplingpodcast #wrestlingpodcast #flowrestling #rudis #wrestlingcanada #jacobalexandertorres #SFU #sfuwrestling #wrestlingcanada #canadianathlete

Kyven Gadson is bringing elite wrestling mechanics into the cage, and if you care about MMA grappling, this is the blueprint. The NCAA champion and undefeated heavyweight breaks down how he is turning world-class takedowns, overhooks, and chain wrestling into a dangerous pro MMA game.From his Iowa wrestling lineage to training under USA Wrestling Legend Kevin Jackson, Kyven Gadson shares how a lifetime of pressure-tested grappling shaped the way he fights now. He explains why the overhook is more than a tie-up, how heavyweight opponents change leverage and timing, and why the smartest fighters are the ones who can set traps instead of forcing chaos. You’ll discover: - How his legendary Kyle Snyder throw was built on film study, timing, and positional manipulation - Why folk style translates so well to MMA, and where freestyle still gives him an edge - How he is reengineering his stance to defend leg kicks without losing shot power - The adjustments needed for wall wrestling, dirty boxing, and clinch control against bigger men - Why fatigue, calm, and accountability matter as much as athleticism in a long MMA career Kyven also talks about the coaches and training partners helping him level up, including his Father and World Class Wrestler - Jerome Ward, Mike Rhodes, Ben Cash, Duran Wynn, and others who keep his game sharp. He opens up about the mindset shift from pure wrestling to cage fighting, the importance of staying grounded, and why he is still approaching every camp like a student.This episode is perfect for wrestlers transitioning to MMA, grapplers who want more cage-specific insight, and anyone who loves hearing from a fighter who thinks as hard as he competes. If you want to understand how an NCAA champion becomes a real heavyweight problem in MMA, hit play now.Kyven Gadson is an undefeated professional heavyweight MMA fighter, NCAA Division I national champion at Iowa State, multiple-time Team USA member, and Final X competitor known for his elite wrestling pedigree and technical grappling. Josh from Grapplezilla hosts the episode and drives the conversation with deep, biomechanics-focused questions that reveal how Kyven’s wrestling translates to MMA. Here are Kyven Gadsons’ social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @gadsonstrong YouTube: @gadsonstrong Facebook: @gadsonstrong TikTok: @gadsonstrong X: @gadsonstrong If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #usawrestling #wrestling #iowastate #MMAMindset #jiujitsulife #KyvenGadson #combatsports #fighttalk #iowawrestling #iowamma #grapplezilla #grapplingpodcast #mmapodcast #gadsonstrong #ufcpodcast #wrestlingpodcast #flowrestling #rudis

Sambo is not Russian judo, and Pierre Longblade Shepherd a.k.a. Sambo Shepherd is here to prove it. Sambo Shepherd breaks down why this brutally efficient grappling art rewards urgency, punishes stalling, and produces fighters who can strike, throw, pin, and submit with real-world purpose.Pierre is a three-time National Combat Sambo champion, a Pan American medalist, and a coach who has spent seven years inside the Sambo Nation system. He shares how a movie, a nearby gym, and a mission to become a more complete fighter pulled him into the sport - and why combat sambo’s “grappling first” logic changes everything about how strikes, takedowns, and submissions actually work.You’ll discover:- Why strikes in combat sambo are often just tools to create takedowns, pins, and submissions- How sambo’s tight ground time limits force faster, more decisive attacks-The simple but devastating mechanics behind knee bars, Achilles locks, hip locks, and pin-to-submission chains- What wrestlers and jiu-jitsu athletes get wrong when they walk into a sambo room- Why the American sambo scene is growing, but still fights an uphill battle against visibility, infrastructure, and tribalismPierre also opens up about the bigger picture - from the need for stronger tournament pipelines and better youth development to his bold vision that we speak about in this episode.If you care about grappling, MMA, wrestling, or the future of martial arts in America, this one is packed with sharp takes, practical coaching insight, and a bigger idea that could reshape the sport. Perfect for anyone who wants to understand why sambo keeps producing dangerous, well-rounded fighters - and where it might go next.Here are Sambo Shepherd’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online:Instagram: @samboshepYouTube: @samboshepFacebook: @facebook.com/people/Sambo-Shepherd/61572963022040/If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below:https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall....If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated:https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly.Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap!Follow Grapplezilla for more world-class combat sports conversations.#sambo #combatsambo #sambopodcast #sambonation usasamb #samboshepherd #grapplingpodcast #GrapplezillaPodcast

In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, Josh sits down with Patricky Freire—better known to MMA fans around the world as “Pitbull”—for a deep, high-energy conversation about the mentality, discipline, and lifelong combat culture that built one of the most dangerous lightweights in the sport. Patricky opens up about growing up in Natal, Brazil, training with his brother every day, fighting in the streets and in the gym, and developing the fearless pressure style that made him a Bellator Lightweight World Champion.We dive into Patricky’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu roots, the influence of Hélio Gracie’s lineage, and how his training evolved from the old vale tudo days into modern MMA. He shares how he developed his devastating knockout power, why wrestling became essential to his long-term success, and how staying calm under pressure has been one of the biggest keys to his career. Patricky also talks about handling adversity, dealing with internet criticism, staying mentally strong, and what it takes to remain dangerous at the highest level for nearly two decades.If you love MMA, Brazilian fight culture, elite striking, knockout artists, championship mindset, and behind-the-scenes stories from a true veteran of the sport, this episode is packed with insight, energy, and unforgettable moments.Watch now for:- Patricky Freire’s championship mindset- The story behind the Pitbull brothers- Brazilian MMA and vale tudo history- How to build real knockout power- Wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and fight IQ- Long-term recovery, discipline, and longevity- The mental side of elite competitionHere are Patricky “Pitbull” Freire’s social media accounts as well as where you can find him online:Instagram: @patrickypitbullInstagram: @pitbullbrothersX: @patrickypitbullFacebook: @patricky.freireIf you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below:https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated:https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly.Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap!Follow Grapplezilla for more world-class combat sports conversations.#MMA #PatrickyFreire #Pitbull #Bellator #BrazilianJiuJitsu #KnockoutPower #Wrestling #BrazilianMMA #FightMindset #GrapplezillaPodcast

Unlock the secrets to reviving lost martial arts and mastering the art of hybrid grappling in this compelling episode featuring Tom Headhunter Higgins—one of the world's top crossover fighters and cultural revivalists. You’ll discover how Tom’s deep journey from folkstyle wrestling to catch wrestling, Irish collar and elbow, and assorted global styles has fueled his mission to revive ancient traditions that once dominated the sporting world.  With titles in world catch wrestling and a passion for cultural heritage, he shares how these styles influence his fight philosophy, coaching, and the rising movement to reawaken Celtic wrestling roots.We break down: The spiritual and cultural lineage behind Irish collar and elbow wrestling and how it was nearly lost to history The critical differences between folkstyle, catch wrestling, jujitsu, and MMA, and how understanding these can elevate your training Practical tactics on how to incorporate tactical pinning, submission dominance, and cultural influence into modern grappling The unique psychology of grappling—why stance, control, and mental chaos could be your secret weapons The cultural challenges and opportunities of reviving traditional styles in Ireland and beyond This episode is perfect for grapplers, martial arts practitioners, and cultural enthusiasts craving a fresh perspective—and a new way to harness their roots for higher-level success. Whether you’re a wrestler, jujitsu fighter, or someone passionate about martial history, Tom’s insights challenge the mainstream narrative and inspire a cultural and technical renaissance. Tom Higgins is a world champion in catch wrestling, a dedicated promoter of Irish collar and elbow, and a cultural ambassador working tirelessly to bring forgotten styles back to life, blending folklore, history, and combat into a unique martial tapestry. Get ready to think beyond the mat and explore how ancient styles can shape modern combat—because the future of grappling might just lie in its oldest traditions. Here are Tom Higgins’ social media accounts as well as where you can find him online: Instagram: @headhunterhiggins Instagram: @irishcollarandelbow Instagram: @wrestling_wars YouTube: @Headhunterhiggins Facebook: @tom.f.higgins.3 If you want to get some AWESOME Grapplezilla merch, check out our Grapplezilla Store in the link below: https://grapplezilla-shop.fourthwall.com/ If you would like to support the Grapplezilla Podcast and buy me a coffee, I’ll leave a link below as any support is always appreciated: https://buymeacoffee.com/grapplezilla  Also, if you enjoyed this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we invite you to subscribe to Grapplezilla’s YouTube channel for more great Grappling and Wrestling content updated regularly. Until next time…Grab, Throw, Tap! #catchwrestling #irishcollarandelbow #irishwrestling #folkwrestling #irishcollarandelbowwrestling #tomhiggins #headhunterhiggins #grappling #irishgrappling