Fighters Drinking Coffee

New Year’s episode where the hosts share concise jiu-jitsu resolutions: pursue greater professionalism as coaches and competitors, add new techniques and finishing mechanics, and build a training/competition calendar to peak for major tournaments.

They also outline podcast goals — grow the audience, engage listeners via Discord and possible Patreon, revive archival episodes, and commit to consistent, higher-value content throughout 2026.

On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee we walk through a practical year-in-review for the 2025 competition season: tracking matches, wins and losses, submission patterns, weight cuts, training timelines, and key turning points.

We show how to turn those data points into actionable changes — adjusting training, mitigating injury and burnout, planning weight classes, and building targeted drills to reproduce strengths and fix weaknesses.

Whether you compete or just want to measure your progress in class, this episode gives a simple process to analyze your year, set smart goals, and make a clearer plan for 2026.

Hosts recap their trip to the 2025 IBJJF World No-Gi Championships in Las Vegas, sharing match breakdowns, surprising referee calls, upsets, and standout performances from friends and teammates.

They discuss preparation, travel and weight-cut tips, lessons about avoiding leaving results to the referee, and takeaways for future competitions.

Raf Esparza of the Grappling Hour joins Fighters Drinking Coffee to talk training, pro-wrestling influence, and how spectacle and fan experience can grow jiu-jitsu. He shares stories from Subversive and Survivor Series, media and performance coaching for athletes, and ideas for building entertaining grappling events.

They also discuss creative segments like Roast Raf and tape study, the importance of personality and promotion in combat sports, and where to find his work.

Support Grappling Hour here: https://www.patreon.com/grapplinghour

Buy Grappling Hour merch here: https://www.rafesparza.com/me...

This episode covers what to do after a jiu-jitsu injury: how to tell a tweak from a serious injury, when to seek medical help, and when to rest.

The hosts share practical tips for training while hurt—modify your game plan, train around the injured side, use controlled drilling, stay present at the gym, and study footage or tutorials.

They emphasize self-assessment, injury prevention (pace and tapping), cooperative training partners, and adapting your training so you can recover safely and return stronger.

On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, Fury welterweight champion Sam Kilmer breaks down his wrestling and jiu-jitsu roots, training at Kaizen and Crazy 88, and his preparations for the December 14 title defense against Mancher Khera.

Sam discusses strength and conditioning with coach Asim, sparring strategy, weight-class decisions, and his goal of earning a UFC call and high-profile matchups in the future.

Check Sam out on Instagram @sam_kilmer

This episode explores the “blue belt blues”: the sudden drop in confidence and performance many feel after a promotion. Hosts discuss causes — targets on your back, merit-based expectations, comparison, and ego — and how coaches shape that experience.

They offer practical advice: humble yourself, keep showing up, use competition constructively, focus on skill acquisition over status, and embrace the long-term journey. Tips include finding new goals, practicing weaknesses, teaching others, and remembering the belt is a checkpoint, not the reward.

Overall, the episode is a pep talk to stay consistent, find challenges, and enjoy the process so you d...

This episode explores the white belt experience in jiu-jitsu — from signing the waiver and wearing a rental gi to learning to tap and leaving your ego at the door. Hosts share practical advice for new students on safety, mindset, and managing expectations.

They cover concrete tips like using micro-goals, slowing down drilling, finding mentors, embracing losses as practice, and staying flexible when life or gyms change. The message: show up, be humble, enjoy being a beginner, and keep training.

This episode features Kari Summers and Mendi Carlson of Genesis Jiu-Jitsu, co-founders of the Unbreakable Women’s Grappling Camp in Fort Worth, Texas. They discuss how their program grew from moms watching their kids train into a supportive women-only community that builds confidence, retention, and competition readiness.

The episode covers their women’s classes and outreach, camp format (gi day and no‑gi day), seminar instructors, VIP lunch, swag and open mat time, and logistical details: Feb 6–7, 2026 at the Sheridan downtown Fort Worth with a 3,600 sq ft mat area and a 150-person cap.

For more informat...

Hosts sit down with BJ and Alex from Capital MMA to discuss their journeys in jiu-jitsu, strength and conditioning, and even Highland Games, plus their coaching and teaching philosophies developed through years of competition and pandemic training adaptations.

They also preview the Movember Super Fights — a team-based and individual tournament on November 22 at Capital MMA in Lorton — fundraising for men’s health. The episode covers event format, community involvement, livestream details, and how donations support Movember’s mission.

Donate here: https://movember.com/t/movember-super-fights?mc=1

Watch the live stream: https://youtube.c...

Scott and Michael recap their recent competitions — PANS in New York (coaching, medals and tough losses), a quick turnaround to the London Open with redemption and a win, and what’s coming next: VGI, Euros in Rome, Worlds, local events and training plans. They share travel stories, match breakdowns, injuries, and a look at the busy fall competition schedule.

In this episode, the hosts discuss how smaller fighters can handle size discrepancies in training and competition. They cover tactical adjustments (leverage, timing, space management), target selection (neck and ankles), and practical training strategies like rolling with bigger partners to prepare for different opponents.

The conversation also explores the mental side: confidence, resilience after losses, and how to learn from setbacks. The hosts share personal anecdotes from tournaments and training, and offer a simple grading idea for estimating how weight differences affect perceived skill matchups.

Welcome back to Fighters Drinking Coffee — special edition with whiskey and guest Will Bullock. They dig into supplements, diet debates (including the "vegetables" argument and carnivore trends), weight cuts and recovery, and personal stories like swimmer's ear and cauliflower ear. The conversation also veers into food spots, tech and AI in entertainment, and hints at predictive programming and robots for a playful, wide-ranging episode.

Apologies for the missing segment but we will be continuing the conversation on predictive programming, comic books and movies in a future Part 3!

Will Bullock joins Fighters Drinking Coffee to debate gas-station coffee and food (Wawa vs. 7-Eleven vs. Buc-ee’s), share his early-morning training routine and strength gains, and discuss his prep with coach Asim.

They cover competition culture, VGI and the NGA pit format, women’s jiu-jitsu intensity, learning from losses, and where to find Will’s Dreams Not Fame podcast and social profiles:

Instagram 

@thehype___

@dreamsnotfamepodcast

Mike recaps his two recent pit super fights at 145 lbs, sharing match highlights—back takes, submission attempts, a near armbar, and a guillotine—as well as weigh-ins, what he would do differently, and match-day preparation.

He breaks down how the pit’s landscape changed the wrestling and ground strategy, why forward pressure and terrain awareness matter, and why the pit format could shape the future of jiu-jitsu.

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee we break down BJJ pedagogy and curriculum design — how coaches plan month-to-month themes, teach fundamentals for each belt, and align multiple instructors around a clear roadmap.

We cover class structure for mixed-level rooms, assessment and feedback cycles, workshop/private options, CLA/ECO-style problem-solving, and the role of wrestling, scrambles, and consistent practice in accelerating progress.

AndyGames joins Fighters Drinking Coffee to share his unexpected boxing journey — starting as a white‑collar novice, climbing into semi‑pro ranks, and leaving undefeated as a heavyweight champion. 

He breaks down training, key fights, the impact of COVID on his career, and how those experiences led him into streaming and podcasting.

Find Andy:

Tiktok: behindthecamerapodcastag

Instagram: behindthecamerawithandygames

X: @BehindTheCamPod

Hosts break down the first night of CJI, debating UFC BJJ exclusivity deals, reactions from Mikey & Craig’s Mighty Cast appearance, and the risks and rewards for competitors. They recap Quintet-style matchups, controversial stoppages/tap rulings, and standout teams — including Australasia as a dark horse — plus previews for the finals and key storylines to watch.

On this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, host interview Dimitri Chrisos about his journey as an academy owner and third-degree black belt, and the creation and growth of Copa Virginia.

They discuss tournament logistics, Smoothcomp adoption, clean venues, weight and rule standards, the popular advanced no‑gi cash division, and an apprenticeship program for new tournament organizers.

Listen for practical insights on running organized events, supporting the local grappling community, and where to find more information about Copa and Dimitri’s academy.

Find out more about COPA Virginia and their apprentice progr...

Two hosts break down Scott's no-gi win at the IBJJF Chicago Open — describing the match, the finishing inverted armbar, and the medal moment. As well as the post tournament meals. 

They also discuss a nearby medical emergency at the event, discuss safety, AEDs and CPR, and reflect on risks in high-intensity training and tournaments.

The conversation shifts to jiu-jitsu industry headlines: The Craig Jones Invitational teams, athlete pay, UFC/Paramount deals, and how mainstream exposure could change the sport. They ruminate over how the change in dynamic could be good for the sport but also the...

Join hosts Mike and Scott on this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee as they delve into the delicate balancing act between life and jujitsu. Inspired by a listener's question, they explore their unique dynamics off the mats, revealing how personal and professional lives intersect with their passion for martial arts.

Mike shares his journey of managing a family with work, competition, and coaching, while Scott discusses his perspective as a single gym owner and competitor, highlighting the differing challenges they face. Together, they discuss setting priorities, managing time effectively, and finding joy in the midst of busy...

Welcome back to Fighters Drinking Coffee! In this exciting episode, we sit down with Caleb Knepley, a passionate coach and athlete from High Noon Jiu-Jitsu, who is soon to open Lariat Jiu-Jitsu in Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia. Join us as we explore Caleb's journey into martial arts, his experiences coaching kids and adults, and the challenges and dreams of running his own gym.

Discover the vibrant and supportive jiu-jitsu community that Caleb cherishes, and how his fun, inclusive approach is shaping the training culture at both High Noon and his own upcoming establishment. From dealing with the...

In this thrilling episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, join us as we dive into the exhilarating world of jiu-jitsu competitions and triumphs. Broadcasting from the NoVa Barbell Club, hear firsthand how Mike achieved double gold in his latest tournament. Discover the strategies that made his easiest weight cut in over a decade, and how strength and cardio training played pivotal roles in his success.

Listen as Mike unravels his experiences competing in both gi and no gi divisions, providing insights into tactics, overcoming mental challenges, and the thrill of competing against skilled opponents. From initial jitters to...

Join us on Fighters Drinking Coffee as we dive into the world of jiu-jitsu with Alex Garipay, a seasoned brown belt, head instructor at Oden Jiu-Jitsu, and NGABJJ commentator. With a passion that ignited upon discovering the sport post-college, Alex shares her journey from practicing various sports to finding her home in martial arts. Learn about her experiences training under different instructors and how these molded her path in jiu-jitsu.

Discover Alex's views on competitive jiu-jitsu, her teaching philosophy, and the pivotal role of community and intentional training in her success. Additionally, hear her insights into the...

Join us on the latest episode of "Fighters Drinking Coffee" as we welcome our good friends Nate Craig and Asim Faez from the Strong AF Podcast for a lively discussion. We embark on an engaging journey exploring the world of micro goals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and fitness. From the importance of setting small, achievable objectives to avoiding burnout, our conversation dives deep into the often-overlooked nuances of training.

Our guests share insights from their personal experiences and debates spark around quintessential elements such as the role of consistency, adaptability, and the significance of asking quality questions. Whether...

Welcome to another insightful episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee. Today, we delve into the intricate world of competitive jiu-jitsu, exploring how rule sets and personal goals shape the martial artist's journey. Join us as we discuss the motivations behind competing, from the thrill of the fight to the pursuit of mastery. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting out, this episode offers valuable perspectives on training for different rule sets, embracing competition, and evolving through the challenges and triumphs on the mat.

Welcome to an engaging episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, where hosts Michael Sutherland and Scott take you on a retrospective journey through the origins and evolution of their podcast. From their humble beginnings in 2015, recording around a coffee table in a sparse condo, to the well-structured platform it is today, the duo shares anecdotes of their grassroots podcasting journey.

Discover how their love for martial arts and casual conversations unwittingly turned into a successful podcast that connected them with fascinating guests from the national and international martial arts scene, coffee enthusiasts, and a diverse array of interesting...

Welcome back to Fighters Drinking Coffee, where we are joined by Adaptive BJJ athlete and sports journalist, RJ Nealon. Join us as we delve into the art of developing your style in jiu-jitsu, focusing on competition and adaptation. Discover how different rule sets and environments shape the competitive journey, and the psychological nuances of facing adversity. From the importance of having a game plan to the resilience needed to embrace both victories and losses, RJ shares his unique insights.

Explore the challenges and strategies inherent in adaptive jiu-jitsu, as RJ exemplifies how to maneuver limitations and leverage...

Welcome to "Fighters Drinking Coffee" where today's episode brings together the dynamic hosts of the "Strong AF Club" podcast, Nate Craig and Asim Faez. Listen in as we explore this exciting collaboration set in the lively environment of the Nova Barbell Club, amidst the clang of weights and the hustle of workout enthusiasts.

Discover firsthand accounts of fighting sprees, training strategies, and the rigorous dedication required to succeed in the world of martial arts. Delve into personal stories of overcoming challenges and reigniting passions, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who turn their love for...

Welcome to another episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee where today we sit down with the remarkable RJ Nealon, a world silver medalist in Jiu-Jitsu and a sports journalist for Special Olympics North America. RJ shares his inspiring journey from being captivated by the UFC to pursuing competitive Jiu-Jitsu despite his cerebral palsy. Through dedication and strategic adaptability, RJ discusses his competition experiences, training strategies, and the importance of adaptive sports. Not only does he provide insights into his personal growth and achievements in the sport, but he also highlights the significance of supportive coaching and creating inclusive opportunities for...

Welcome to another episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee! Join hosts Michael Sutherland and Scott Dance as they delve into the intriguing world of Jiu-Jitsu competition, focusing on the age-old question: Gi or No Gi? Explore when and how often to compete, while considering what fits best with your personal goals and lifestyle. The hosts discuss listener questions, debunk common misconceptions, and share insights on consulting coaches to create a personalized competition plan. Whether you're striving for a championship or just enjoying the journey, this episode provides a roadmap for balancing competitive aspirations with personal goals. Tune in for an...

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, we dive deep into the transition from student to teacher in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our hosts kick off the discussion with a listener question about this significant transition. They share personal stories of how they moved from just being practitioners to taking on coaching roles at NOVAMMA and beyond, and how that affected their personal growth

Listeners will gain insights into the evolution of their coaching methodologies. Our hosts discuss the importance of defensive skills, the balance between teaching and personal progression, and the challenges and rewards of...

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, hosts Mike and Scott sit down with Khaldon Roukie, an MMA fighter, coach, and the son of a butcher; based out of District Martial Arts in Arlington, Virginia. Khaldon shares his inspiring transformation journey, highlighting his entry into the world of mixed martial arts in 2018, dropping 40 pounds, and becoming a dedicated athlete. He talks about his experience of being motivated by the haters and playing the heel.

They discuss his unique path from studying political science and Islamic studies to becoming an MMA fighter, and how martial arts unexpectedly became...

Join us for an engaging episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, where we sit down with Andrea Tang, a renowned author, passionate BJJ competitor, and host of the BJJ Today podcast for BJJ Mental Models. Andrea shares insights from her bustling year in the competition scene, discussing potential matchups, her ambitions in the IBJJF Nogi season, and her experiences with ADCC events.

Away from the mats, Andrea excels as a young adult novelist with Penguin Random House, where her works explore imaginative realms in science fiction and fantasy. Listen as she explains the discipline required in both writing...

Welcome to another exciting episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee! Today, we delve into the dynamic world of cross-training in Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the experiences and benefits that arise from training with diverse groups. From expanding one's skill set to facing different competition styles, we uncover the value of stepping out of your comfort zone. Join us as we explore how cross-training can enhance both the mindset and abilities of competitive fighters.

In this episode of Fighters Drinking Coffee, join us as we sit down with Dallas Ducote, the dynamic owner of Rising Tide in Montgomery County. We discuss his business goals, fighting journey, and how he went from engineer to gym owner.

He opens up about the challenges of starting a gym, the importance of creating a welcoming community, and his commitment to personal freedom and authenticity in both his business and personal life.

Find more about Dallas and his gym at:

MoCoMartialarts.com

Instagram:

@dallasducote_mm...

On this episode, we highlight the ups and downs of competition. Mike shares his experience with a super fight at Copa Elite 4 and participation in the Virginia Open for IBJJF.  We reflect on returning to competition after a long hiatus, knocking off the rust, overcoming unexpected illnesses and injuries, the benefits of confidence, and the idea of growing from a loss. 

Scott breaks down his lead up and competition at the IBJJF Chicago open. We discuss takeaways, changes from prior competitions, as well as his focuses and how he approached competition day.

 Scott and Mike also delve into the nuances of competition mentalities, sharing advice on managing nerves, the importance of preparation, and strategies to maintain peak performance.

On this episode, Scott and Mike go over an ever present aspect of competing in BJJ: weight classes and weight cuts.

Join us as we discuss the rigors of cutting weight safely, highlight the brutal reality of weight cuts, and offer strategic advice on optimizing performance come competition day. With anecdotes from our experiences and tips on diet management, this episode is packed with valuable information for both seasoned competitors and newcomers inspired by the sport.

Whether you're a newbie learning about the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) or a veteran looking for advanced strategies...

We sit down with owner of NoVa Barbell Club, Asim Fayyaz.

Asim, known for his expertise in training high-level grappling athletes, shares his journey from starting a garage gym to building a thriving community focused on strength conditioning and resilience.

In this episode, Asim delves into the unique strength training techniques he employs for grapplers and MMA fighters, emphasizing the importance of building resilience and preventing injuries. We also explore how Nova Barbell integrates powerlifting and general fitness to support athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Discover the secrets to curating an effective training...

Scott and Mike sit down with Shane "The Night Train" Marshall, a national champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and accomplished mixed martial artist. Join us as Shane shares his unique journey from growing up in Dubois, Pennsylvania to serving in the Marine Corps, and eventually finding his passion for mixed martial arts and Jiu-Jitsu.

Shane opens up about his colorful experiences, including intense training sessions, grappling championships, and memorable moments from his rugby days. Get an insider's view of his time overseas in Norway and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a dynamic gym community.

Listen in as Scott and Mike explore various recovery techniques, including strength training, diet, and mental breaks, and how these contribute to longevity in the sport. Learn how to maintain peak performance by adopting a holistic approach that considers life outside the gym, and hear personal anecdotes about overcoming injuries and avoiding burnout.

Whether you're just starting your jiu-jitsu journey or are a veteran on the mats, this episode offers insights into cultivating a sustainable and fulfilling athletic lifestyle that keeps you engaged and injury-free for the long haul.

In this episode, Scott and Mike delve into the intricacies of balancing competitive jiu-jitsu training with the demands of everyday life. As they reflect on their evolution from full-time fighters to seasoned practitioners, they emphasize the importance of intentional training, recovery, and injury prevention for long-term success on the mat. Through candid conversations about personal experiences and lessons learned, listeners gain insights into how jiu-jitsu can seamlessly integrate into a busy life while prioritizing health and family commitments.

On this episode Scott and Mike discuss purposeful training that we have been doing as preparation for competition and our ideology behind it.