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In the Soviet Union, "Line 5" (pyataya grafa) on your internal passport listed your ethnic nationality. If it said "Jewish," it could quietly close doors to university spots, job promotions, and career ceilings for your entire life. But there was one place in the USSR where a bureaucrat with a stamp and a quota couldn't touch you: the wrestling mat. Because a pin is a pin, and either your back touches the ground or it doesn't. In this episode of the Grapplezilla Podcast, we break down the extraordinary history of the Jewish wrestlers and coaches who didn't just survive the brutal Soviet sports pipeline (Dynamo, CSKA, Spartak, Burevestnik)—they dominated it and built the technical infrastructure still used at the highest levels of Olympic grappling today. Timestamps: 0:00 Intro: "Line 5" & The Only Objective Proving Ground in the USSR 1:10 The Soviet Wrestling Machine (Dynamo, CSKA, Spartak, Burevestnik) 2:34 Boris Maksovich Gurevich: The First Soviet Olympic Wrestling Champion (1952) 3:42 Yakov Punkin: From 80-Lb WWII POW Survivor to Olympic Gold 5:16 Grigory Gamarnik: Champion & 20-Year Architect of Ukrainian Greco-Roman 6:21 Oleg Karavaev: Master of Pace, Tempo & Impenetrable Defense 7:12 Boris Mikhaylovich Gurevich: 1968 Gold & The UN Statue Legend 8:45 Aleksandr Kolchinsky: The 2x Olympic Super-Heavyweight King 9:55 The Architects: Mikhail Mirsky, David Rudman (Sambo-70) & Valentin Kalika 11:25 The Technical Legacy: 2-on-1 Russian Tie, Folk Setups & Pace Control 11:56 The 1990s Aliyah Wave: Carrying the System to Israel 13:50 The Honor Roll Across 11 Time Zones 15:17 Why This Legacy Still Matters Today on the Mat 💬 Drop a comment below: Which of these stories stood out to you the most—Yakov Punkin’s comeback from captivity, or the coaching tree that still dominates wrestling rooms today? Let me know what wrestling history topic we should cover next! 🔔 Subscribe to Grapplezilla for deep dives into wrestling history, global grappling disciplines, and combat sports biomechanics. Until next time—Grab, Throw, Tap!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 #WrestlingHistory #SovietWrestling #GrecoRoman #FreestyleWrestling #OlympicWrestling #Sambo #Grappling #Grapplezilla #history #jewishhistory #jews #jewish #soviethistory #ussrwrestling #jewishathletes #jewishwrestler

Sambo Steve Koepfer reveals why the smartest grapplers are thinking about throws, grips, and transitions all wrong. If you train jiu-jitsu, wrestling, judo, or combat sambo, this conversation will change how you see stand-up, breakfalls, and the moment a strike becomes a takedown. Stephen Koepfer is the founder and head coach of New York Combat Sambo, one of the earliest U.S. Sambo academies, operating in New York City since 2003.  He is a Master of Sport of Russia in Combat Sambo, president of the American Sambo Association, co-founder of Breakfall Studios, and a stunt performer and action designer whose work has appeared in John Wick 2, John Wick 3, Hunters, and The Blacklist. We break down the evolution of American Sambo from the late 90s to the Fedor-era explosion, including how Combat Sambo became an official sport and why timing mattered so much for the growth of the art. Stephen also tells the full story behind earning his Russian Master of Sport title as an American, including the on-the-mat testing, the old-school coaches watching, and the moment that sealed the credential.In this episode, you’ll discover: Why Combat Sambo rewards finish-fast thinking instead of point-fighting habits The biggest mistake jiu-jitsu athletes make when closing distance under striking pressure How Sambo grips translate from kurtka to no-gi, and what simply does not transfer Why the Achilles grip matters more than the heel hook in real leg entanglement strategy How Stephen uses sweep mechanics to teach throws to jiu-jitsu players who think they “can’t throw” What stunt performers and actors must learn to make a fight scene look brutal without getting injured Stephen also shares what makes John Wick’s grappling feel authentic, how Breakfall Studios turns martial arts knowledge into screen action, and why teaching fight choreography is really about preserving story, structure, and safety at the same time. If you love technical grappling, Soviet training methods, or the hidden mechanics behind movie fight scenes, this one is packed with real-world insight. Perfect for grapplers who want better stand-up, coaches who want smarter training methods, and anyone obsessed with the intersection of martial arts, film, and old-school combat systems. Here are Sambo Steve’s social media account where you can find him online: Instagram: @sambosteve YouTube: @sambosteveYouTube: @FilmFightsFriendsPod  URL: ussambo.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! #sambo #sambosteve #sambopodcast #usasambo #ussambo #nycsambo #grappling #grapplingpodcast #grapplezilla

The hardest part of training isn’t the throw—it’s getting to the gym after a brutal workday. Holly Ann Frazier knows that challenge firsthand.  A root canal assistant by day and elite Sambo and judo competitor by night, Holly shares how discipline, community support, and countless hours on the mat took her to the 2025 Sambo World Championships in Kyrgyzstan. In this Grapplezilla Podcast episode, Holly talks about balancing work, school, and world-class competition—and what it meant to carry the support of her community onto the international stage.  She also breaks down the tactical differences between judo and Sambo, including grip fighting, the Georgian grip, drop seoi nage, and harai-goshi. In this episode, Holly discusses: How she balanced a demanding job with elite-level training Crowdfunding her path to international competition What she learned competing at Pan Americans and the Sambo World Championships How she adapts her game across judo, Sambo, and MMA-influenced training Grip-fighting strategy and the adjustments that can decide a match Managing nerves with music, warm-ups, and competition routines The growth of American Sambo and the women helping move the sport forward The athletes and coaches who inspire her development Whether you’re a grappler, martial artist, combat sports fan, or someone working toward an ambitious goal, Holly’s story offers an honest look at the persistence behind competing on the world stage. Subscribe to the Grapplezilla Podcast for more conversations about grappling, martial arts, and the people shaping combat sports. Here is Holly Anne Frazier’s social media account where you can find her online: Instagram: @hawleee_ 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! #sambo #judo #usasambo #ussambo #usjudo #usajudo #bjj #womensbjj #grappling #grapplingpodcast #sambopodcast #sambousa #hollyannefrazier #jiujitsupodcast #bjjpodcast #girlpower

Francis Pignoti Pana joins the Grapplezilla Podcast for a deep dive into ultra-heavyweight no-gi grappling, elite competition, pressure passing, and the mindset required to perform on the sport’s biggest stages. From his early days training under Brazilian Top Team to representing Homa BJJ in Montreal, Francis shares the story behind his rise in jiu-jitsu. He breaks down his world championship run, lessons from competing at ADCC, the influence of boxing on his stand-up game, and how he developed a crushing top-pressure style built around control, patience, and exhaustion. We also get into his experience facing elite competitors including Felipe Pena and Luke Griffith, the evolution of heavyweight leg-lock defense, recovery for older athletes, cross-training, coaching, gratitude, and why he believes more men need to prioritize fitness. If you love Brazilian jiu-jitsu, no-gi grappling, ADCC, heavyweight pressure passing, wrestling, combat sports, or the mentality behind high-level competition, this episode is for you. In this episode:- Francis Pignoti Pana’s journey from France to Canada- Brazilian Top Team, Homa BJJ, and building a no-gi game- Winning at the highest levels of jiu-jitsu- Facing Felipe Pena and competing on major stages- What Luke Griffith taught him about elite top pressure- Boxing footwork, cardio, distance management, and grappling- Heavyweight passing, guard work, and leg-lock defense- Training smarter, recovering better, and staying durable- Coaching, gym culture, brotherhood, and competitive mindset Here are Francis Pignoti Pana's social media account where you can find him online: Instagram: @francopana_combateYouTube:  @francopana_combate  Threads:  @francopana_combate  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! #grappling #bjj #jiujitsu #adcc #montrealbjj #francispignotipana #nogi #nogigrappling #bjjpodcast #jiujitsupodcast #grapplingpodcast #bjjfighter #grapplezilla

Brett Pastore has fought his way from a New Jersey classroom to the brutal front lines of global combat sports, and his story is as wild as his style. The American Nomad breaks down why teaching middle school felt harder than MMA, how he ended up training and living in Thailand, and what it really takes to survive across Catch Wrestling, Sambo, Combat Wrestling, Ssireum, MMA, One Championship, and bare-knuckle Lethwei. Brett is a BJJ black belt, USA Sambo national team member, 2021 Catch Wrestling lightweight world champion, and a professional MMA fighter training out of the world famous Tiger Muay Thai and MMA. In this conversation, he reveals how he blends catch wrestling pressure with jiu-jitsu guard concepts, why the “gap system” matters everywhere from turtle to guard retention, and how his aggressive, submission-hunting approach changes when strikes, headbutts, and ring ropes enter the equation. You’ll discover: - Why catch wrestling and BJJ are closer than people think - How combat Sambo and MMA overlap, especially with strikes, grips, and takedowns - What changes when leg locks meet punches - Why One Championship’s rule set and ring create completely different problems - How Brett adapts to wildly different rule sets without losing his core game Brett also shares the story of taking an eight-week camp into bare-knuckle Lethwei against a world champion in Myanmar, what he learned from getting outmuscled and cut open in hostile territory, and why fighting in a ring can be far stranger than fighting in a cage. Along the way, he and the host dig into rule differences, back-of-the-head strikes, folkstyle vs freestyle wrestling, Korean Ssireum, and the technical details that separate great grapplers from great MMA fighters.If you care about high-level grappling, MMA strategy, or the mindset of a fighter who’s lived the real nomad life, this one delivers. Essential listening for wrestlers, jiu-jitsu players, and anyone who wants a brutally honest look at what works when the rules stop being theoretical. Here is Brett Pastore’s social media account where you can find him online: Instagram: @brettpastore.americannomad 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! #tigermuaythai #mma #mmafighter #mmapodcast #sambo #bjj #jiujitsu #mmatips #brettpastore #onechampionship #onefc #ufc #podcast #grapplezilla

The difference between winning and fading in grappling often comes down to one idea: one stance, one grip, one throw.  Ukrainian Sambo world champion Ivan Vasylchuk reveals the brutally simple system behind elite-level takedowns, submissions, and transitions, and why mastering a few fundamentals beats collecting hundreds of techniques.Ivan has won gold at the 2011 World Championships in Vilnius and the World Combat Games, holds black belts in judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and has built a reputation as one of the sharpest technical minds in Sambo.  But what makes this conversation special is how he breaks down world-class grappling into details you can actually use—from grip fighting and leg locks to no-gi throwing mechanics and the mindset that keeps champions dangerous. You'll discover: Why Ivan believes rules matter more than people realize and how they shape 60% of a match The real biomechanics behind the Achilles lock and the common mistakes that kill finishing power How to adapt throws for no-gi, including where to grip when the jacket is gone Why Sambo, judo, and BJJ all reward different pace, pressure, and stance choices How he trains transitions from standing to ground so attack never stops after the takedown Ivan also explains how changing judo rules reshaped the sport, why some grapplers are better off learning fewer techniques better, and how the best competitors control not just the body, but the opponent's decision-making. He shares the coaching philosophy he inherited from Gennady Horokhov, the tactical lessons from silver-medal finishes, and the psychological edge every serious grappler should study. If you care about standup dominance, ruthless efficiency, or making your top game instantly more dangerous, this episode gives you a masterclass from a true international champion. Perfect for Sambo players, Judokas, BJJ competitors, and MMA grapplers who want practical answers, not theory. Grapplezilla hosts the conversation, and Ivan Vasylchuk  brings the experience, precision, and championship-level insight. If you want to understand how elite grapplers think, move, and finish, hit play now. Here are Ivan Vasylchuk’s social media account where you can find him online: Instagram: @ivanvasylchuk_sp Instagram: @vasylchuk_academy  YouTube: @IvanVasylchuk_silapartera Facebook: @SilaParteraIvanVasylchuk URL: https://www.silapartera.com/ URL: https://gpp.silapartera.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!

Kristiany “The Karate Queen” Carvalho is proving that elite striking can thrive inside MMA—and she’s doing it without abandoning her style. She breaks down how she blends karate, Muay Thai, wrestling defense, and growing jiu-jitsu confidence into a game built to frustrate opponents and win rounds.From Brazil to South Florida, Kristiany shares her evolution at Fight Sports Deerfield Beach with Coach Daniel Mendes and jiu-jitsu coach Jesus Cavalcanti. She explains why she refused to flatten her stance into something generic, how she’s rebuilding her grappling without losing her speed, and what she learned from both a first-round rear-naked choke win and a controversial fight at the wrong weight.In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why Kristiany believes changing her stance too much could erase the best part of her game - How a striking exchange unexpectedly turned into a submission finish - What training in Florida has changed about her wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and fight camps - Why competing at the right weight class matters -How music, confidence, and staying loose shape her fight-night mindset We also discuss the pressure of fighting under the UFC Fight Pass spotlight in Houston, moving from scattered training camps in Brazil to a complete team in Florida, and learning to trust coaches with the game plan. Kristiany talks about the fighters who inspire her—from Ronda Rousey and Valentina Shevchenko to Sean O’Malley—and how their styles influence the fighter she’s becoming. For MMA fans, martial artists, and aspiring fighters, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at adapting a striking-first style while building a more complete game.Kristiany Carvalho, Brazilian MMA fighter known as “The Karate Queen,” in conversation with the Grapplezilla Podcast. Here is Kristiany Carvalho’s social media account where you can find her online: Instagram: @krisoficial_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! #kristianycarvalho #karatequeen #karate #mma #mmafighter #mmapodcast #karatemotivation #mmakarate #furyfc #junglefight #brazilmma #brasilmma #mmabrasil #mmabrazil #fightsport #grapplingpodcast #womensmma #ufc

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