
In this episode of Mat Matters, we dive deep into the fight game—breaking down the rise of Khamzat Chimaev, his journey through injuries, and how nationality can shape a fighter’s career. We also cover the UFC’s brand-new Paramount Plus deal and what it means for viewership compared to massive sports like the Champions League.
On the mats, we shift gears into the evolution of grappling and Jiu-Jitsu techniques—from the rise of leg locks to the art of chokes, back attacks, and the never-ending gi vs. no-gi debate. Plus, we highlight upcoming wrestling events and the next wave of grappling talent making noise.
Whether you’re a hardcore MMA fan or a Jiu-Jitsu junkie, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and debates you won’t want to miss.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Summer Reflections
01:35 Hamza Shemayev's Background and Injuries
04:45 Training and Nationality Changes in MMA
07:50 Upcoming Fights and Fighter Profiles
10:54 UFC's New Broadcasting Deal and Its Implications
14:17 Comparing UFC and Champions League Viewership
17:56 The Future of UFC in International Markets
23:59 Legacy and Rankings in MMA
26:04 Emerging Fighters and Their Impact
29:41 Grappling Techniques and Strategies
31:45 The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu
45:28 Injuries and Their Impact on Fighters
50:01 The Evolution of Jiu-Jitsu
52:26 The Changing Landscape of Grappling Competitions
54:54 The Prestige of Jiu-Jitsu Tournaments
57:16 The Impact of Injuries on Athletes
59:34 The Future of Jiu-Jitsu Teams
01:01:49 Innovative Competition Formats
01:05:10 The Gi vs. No-Gi Debate
01:09:36 Promotions and Rankings in Jiu-Jitsu
01:14:05 Upcoming Wrestling Events