We're in London! Twas the night before the IBJJF Open and we managed to get to LFF where nicknames serve as a badge of honor and camaraderie flourishes. Our hosts chat with Luiz "Manxinha" Ribeiro, owner of the London Fight Factory, and a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Ricardo Vieira from the Checkmat academy. Luiz recounts his journey from the bustling streets of Brazil to establishing a renowned gym in London.

Discover how Luiz's past as a football hooligan shaped his values and approach to martial arts and coaching. He shares amusing and heartwarming stories of gym life, from giving nicknames to overcoming personal challenges, while emphasizing the importance of loyalty, community, and personal growth.

The episode also explores how Jiu-Jitsu offers more than just physical training; it's a spiritual journey that fosters confidence and resilience, with Luis crediting his faith for guiding him through pivotal moments in his life.

Tune in for lively conversations on the cultural nuances of Jiu-Jitsu, the significance of nicknames, and the powerful role of faith and love in building a supportive and inclusive gym environment.

Should you enter a higher level jiu jitsu competition hungover? The answer is pretty obvious. But still, join us as we dive into the high highs and stalling, hungover lows of a thrilling Jiu-Jitsu weekend at the IBJJF London Open. Our hosts reflect on their experiences competing in the Gi, navigating through exciting matches, and the unexpected lessons learned both on and off the mat.

As they recount their stories, you'll hear about the adrenaline rush of competition, the challenge of competing with injuries, and the humorous blunders caused by pre-match indulgences. Discover how a seven-point alcohol handicap set the stage for a predictable and eventful tournament journey for Eddie.

Listen in as they discuss the intricacies of match strategies, from executing single leg takedowns to dealing with notorious stalling opponents. Learn from their insights on maintaining focus amidst distractions and the camaraderie shared among competitors.

The episode also sheds light on the lighter side of competitive events, from the pleasure of meeting Jiu-Jitsu greats like Roger Gracie to the importance of finding balance when staying with welcoming hosts. With a mix of competition analysis and lighthearted anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for Jiu-Jitsu enthusiasts and anyone interested in the journey of an "athlete".

Eddie and Jack head over to Stealth Bolton, a renowned gym led by a legendary coach known for his technical and tactical prowess in jiu-jitsu. As they recount their experiences, from an intense personal training session focused on footlocks to rolling with high-level practitioners, the conversation flows naturally into the dynamics of training and competing at various levels of the sport.

The hosts and their guest, a highly regarded coach and gym owner, explore the evolution of a jiu-jitsu gym from a small training space to a thriving community hub, catering to a diverse demographic. They delve into the strategic decisions behind gym expansion, the balance of technical and physical training, and the exhilarating atmosphere of competing against world-class athletes.

Listeners are treated to stories of camaraderie and resilience, as the discussion touches on how jiu-jitsu has grown in popularity, often inspired by mainstream MMA events like UFC. The episode highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive gym culture that welcomes practitioners of all backgrounds, ensuring a supportive and respectful environment for everyone.

Adding a layer of depth, the coach opens up about his personal jiu-jitsu journey, from his days in kickboxing to discovering the intricacies of jiu-jitsu, underlining the sport's transformative power not just for physical fitness but in building a robust community ethos. This episode is a testament to how jiu-jitsu is more than a martial art; it is a way of life, influencing both personal growth and community spirit.