The Grapple Of Your Eye

Ep. 65: Dan Lester In this week's episode we are joined by Dan Lester — South of England Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner, assistant coach with Vespasian Security BJJ, and the mind behind Alignment Performance. We dive into how to start BJJ as a beginner, overcoming gym anxiety and “paralysis by analysis,” and why you should stop waiting to get fit first and just step on the mat.

Ep. 65: Dan Lester

In this week's episode we are joined by Dan Lester — South of England Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioner, assistant coach with Vespasian Security BJJ, and the mind behind Alignment Performance. We dive into how to start BJJ as a beginner, overcoming gym anxiety and…

Ep. 64: Klondyke Kate Get ready for an epic journey as British wrestling royalty, Klondyke Kate, unleashes the incredible tale of a true women's wrestling trailblazer on The Grapple Of Your Eye! Witness the raw power of a pioneer who shattered glass ceilings in World of Sport, British professional wrestling, and European women's wrestling history. From a daring escape to Blackpool at just 14, enduring brutal old-school training, to conquering the globe, facing down hostile crowds, conquering Japan, and becoming one of the UK's most terrifying heel legends – this episode uncovers the electrifying real-life story of a female wrestling icon.

Ep. 64: Klondyke Kate

Get ready for an epic journey as British wrestling royalty, Klondyke Kate, unleashes the incredible tale of a true women's wrestling trailblazer on The Grapple Of Your Eye! Witness the raw power of a pioneer who shattered glass ceilings in World of Sport, British professional…

Ep. 63: Rich “Killer” Valdez In Episode 63 of The Grapple Of Your Eye Show, Brett Summers sits down with Rich “Killer” Valdez — elite competitor, wrestling specialist, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt, coach, and rising name in the world of submission grappling, no-gi BJJ, and combat sports competition. This powerful conversation explores Rich’s journey through California high school wrestling, college wrestling pressure, injury and life setbacks, and a relentless comeback through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training and competition.

Ep. 63: Rich “Killer” Valdez

In Episode 63 of The Grapple Of Your Eye Show, Brett Summers sits down with Rich “Killer” Valdez — elite competitor, wrestling specialist, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt, coach, and rising name in the world of submission grappling, no-gi BJJ, and combat sports…

Ep. 62: Joe Malenko Before MMA had a name, Joe Malenko was already living it! This week we are lucky enough to be joined by Joe Malenko — Karl Gotch's student, catch wrestler, pro wrestler, trainer, and forgotten MMA pioneer whose influence helped bridge the gap between traditional grappling and modern mixed martial arts. As a direct student of Karl Gotch, "Kami-sama aka god of wrestling" and a major influence on submission grappling worldwide, Joe Malenko represents a crucial missing link connecting catch wrestling, pro-wrestling, Japanese shoot-style realism, early hybrid fighting, and the technical grappling foundations used in MMA today.

Ep. 62: Joe Malenko

Before MMA had a name, Joe Malenko was already living it! This week we are lucky enough to be joined by Joe Malenko — Karl Gotch's student, catch wrestler, pro wrestler, trainer, and forgotten MMA pioneer whose influence helped bridge the gap between traditional grappling and…

Ep. 61: Samuel Butcher This week we meet Samuel Butcher — a 3x National Wrestling Champion, Judo brown belt, and one of the most exciting young talents in British wrestling right now. In this episode, Sam breaks down his journey from school judo clubs to becoming a dominant wrestler… and why his next huge step is heading to Nebraska, USA, to chase greatness through the American college wrestling system.

Ep. 61: Samuel Butcher

This week we meet Samuel Butcher — a 3x National Wrestling Champion, Judo brown belt, and one of the most exciting young talents in British wrestling right now. In this episode, Sam breaks down his journey from school judo clubs to becoming a dominant wrestler… and why his…

The last of the Brits is Billy Riley, proprietor of the Snakepit Gym in Wigan, and progenitor of generations of feared shooters. His career began in 1909, and he thought nothing of jumping into the ring to replace absent wrestlers on his shows well into pensionable age, working his last match at 72.

Ep. 60: Giovanni De Clemente This week on The Grappler Eye Show, we’re joined by Giovani De Clemente — a two-time British Catch Wrestling Champion, two-time World Catch Wrestling Champion, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Purple belt known for his pressure-heavy, wrestling-first grappling style. In this episode we dive into catch wrestling vs BJJ, wrestling for jiu-jitsu, submission grappling, and the mindset needed to win at the highest level.

Ep. 60: Giovanni De Clemente

This week on The Grappler Eye Show, we’re joined by Giovani De Clemente — a two-time British Catch Wrestling Champion, two-time World Catch Wrestling Champion, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Purple belt known for his pressure-heavy, wrestling-first grappling style. In this…

BONUS EPISODE: How To Strengthen Your Neck For Grappling Want to build a stronger neck for Wrestling, BJJ, MMA, or boxing? Most athletes tend to ignore one crucial muscle—the neck. In this video we discuss and present a comprehensive guide to neck training, offering three targeted steps: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. You will learn how to safely strengthen your neck at home or in the gym, all without expensive equipment.

BONUS EPISODE: How To Strengthen Your Neck For Grappling

Want to build a stronger neck for Wrestling, BJJ, MMA, or boxing? Most athletes tend to ignore one crucial muscle—the neck. In this video we discuss and present a comprehensive guide to neck training, offering three targeted steps: beginner,…

Ep. 59. Kate Kroll In this episode, we chat with Kate Kroll — film director, film producer, and former professional wrestler — to talk in-depth about her acclaimed wrestling documentary Lunatic: The Luna Vachon Story. This powerful film explores the life, career, and legacy of Luna Vachon, one of the most unforgettable and influential women in professional wrestling history — known for her work in WWF/WWE, AWA, WCW, Florida Championship Wrestling, GLOW-era wrestling, and the independent scene.

Ep. 59. Kate Kroll

In this episode, we chat with Kate Kroll — film director, film producer, and former professional wrestler — to talk in-depth about her acclaimed wrestling documentary Lunatic: The Luna Vachon Story. This powerful film explores the life, career, and legacy of Luna Vachon, one of…

58: Sean Mackenzie In this week's episode we are joined by Sean MacKenzie – Wrestling’s Main Event Mercenary in a deep-dive into UK pro wrestling with one of the fastest rising stars. Host Brett Summers sits down with Sean “Mr. Main Event” MacKenzie, the Rizen Limitless Champion, to break down exactly how to become a professional wrestler in the UK — from discovering WWE to training at…

58: Sean Mackenzie

In this week's episode we are joined by Sean MacKenzie – Wrestling’s Main Event Mercenary in a deep-dive into UK pro wrestling with one of the fastest rising stars. Host Brett Summers sits down with Sean “Mr. Main Event” MacKenzie, the Rizen Limitless Champion, to break down…

Ep. 57: Mike Jones In this episode we meet Mike Jones, a newly promoted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and serving British Army aircraft technician. Mike shares his full BJJ journey from white belt to black belt, how he balances military life and home life with jiu-jitsu training, and what it really takes to progress in grappling and BJJ over the long term. We dive deep into BJJ fundamentals, guard play, lapel guard, De La Riva, competition mindset, imposter syndrome, training in the army, strength & conditioning, and injury prevention — plus the mental side of competing in jiu-jitsu and why mastering the basics still matters at every belt level.

Ep. 57: Mike Jones

In this episode we meet Mike Jones, a newly promoted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and serving British Army aircraft technician. Mike shares his full BJJ journey from white belt to black belt, how he balances military life and home life with jiu-jitsu training, and what it…

Ep. 56: Joel Redman This week we are joined by a true global ambassador of British Wrestling Joel Redman. Joel is one of the most influential figures in modern British professional wrestling — former WWE NXT Tag Team Champion (one half of the first-ever NXT Tag Team Champions alongside PAC), multiple-time UK Tag Team Champion, 2x All Star Wrestling Super Slam Champion, and current Head Coach of…

Ep. 56: Joel Redman

This week we are joined by a true global ambassador of British Wrestling Joel Redman. Joel is one of the most influential figures in modern British professional wrestling — former WWE NXT Tag Team Champion (one half of the first-ever NXT Tag Team Champions alongside PAC),…

Ep. 55: Luke Hannaford This week's episode features Luke Hannaford — a Cornish wrestler, BJJ grappler, and ex-army man who’s lived a life built around grappling. Luke breaks down what Cornish wrestling is (jacket wrestling on grass, stand-up throws, points and “a back”), how he came up in the tradition, and what changed when he added Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to fill the gaps in his game.

Ep. 55: Luke Hannaford

This week's episode features Luke Hannaford — a Cornish wrestler, BJJ grappler, and ex-army man who’s lived a life built around grappling. Luke breaks down what Cornish wrestling is (jacket wrestling on grass, stand-up throws, points and “a back”), how he came up in the…

Ep. 54: Brett Hawthorn In Ep. 54 of The Grapple of Your Eye, host Brett Summers sits down with Brett Hawthorn — a two-time World Catch Wrestling Lightweight Champion, British wrestling standout, and former boxer — to unpack the real story behind becoming (and staying) a world-class grappler. From being thrown into competitions as a kid in Bradford, to getting humbled on the international circuit, to earning a US college wrestling scholarship and experiencing the intensity of American wrestling culture, Brett shares the lessons, setbacks, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey.

Ep. 54: Brett Hawthorn

In Ep. 54 of The Grapple of Your Eye, host Brett Summers sits down with Brett Hawthorn — a two-time World Catch Wrestling Lightweight Champion, British wrestling standout, and former boxer — to unpack the real story behind becoming (and staying) a world-class grappler. From…

Ep. 53: Kateryna Sassa From stepping onto the mat as a young freestyle wrestler to travelling the world in one of the toughest combat sports on the planet — Kateryna Sassa’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Kateryna opens up about the brutal highs and crushing lows of elite grappling, the sacrifices it takes, and how wrestling shaped her life far beyond competition.

Ep. 53: Kateryna Sassa

From stepping onto the mat as a young freestyle wrestler to travelling the world in one of the toughest combat sports on the planet — Kateryna Sassa’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Kateryna opens up about the brutal highs and crushing lows of elite…

Ep. 52: Raphael Dos Santos This week, we sit down with the incredible Raphael Dos Santos—a true force in the world of grappling. From throwing his first judo hip toss to becoming a Judo Black Belt, switching lanes to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and rising all the way to BJJ Black Belt, Raphael’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. But he didn’t stop there.

Ep. 52: Raphael Dos Santos

This week, we sit down with the incredible Raphael Dos Santos—a true force in the world of grappling. From throwing his first judo hip toss to becoming a Judo Black Belt, switching lanes to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and rising all the way to BJJ Black Belt, Raphael’s journey…

Ep. 51: Brad Belsey Get ready for a full-contact deep dive into the world of elite grappling! In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Brad Belsey (Island Sambo Club)— Judo Black Belt, Sambo Black Belt, and all-round martial arts machine. Brad breaks down his hardcore training regime, the mindset that forged him, and the journey that took him to the top, including:

Ep. 51: Brad Belsey

Get ready for a full-contact deep dive into the world of elite grappling! In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Brad Belsey (Island Sambo Club)— Judo Black Belt, Sambo Black Belt, and all-round martial arts machine. Brad breaks down his hardcore training regime, the…

Ep. 49: Casey Belsey In this week's episode we are joined by Casey Belsey!• Started Judo at just 4 years old — a lifetime of throws, sweeps, and submissions.• Black belt in both Judo and Sambo.• British Judo Champion & 8x British Championship medallist.• 4x British Sambo Champion and international competitor.• Represented Great Britain in both Judo and Sambo.

Ep. 49: Casey Belsey

In this week's episode we are joined by Casey Belsey!• Started Judo at just 4 years old — a lifetime of throws, sweeps, and submissions.• Black belt in both Judo and Sambo.• British Judo Champion & 8x British Championship medallist.• 4x British Sambo Champion and international…

Ep. 48: Brian R. Solomon This week on The Grapple of Your Eye, we’re joined by the incredible Brian R. Solomon — renowned writer, historian, and podcaster — to dive deep into his latest book, “Irresistible Force: The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon.” From the golden age of wrestling to the rise of modern sports entertainment, Gorilla Monsoon was a true giant who transcended every era — both in and out of the ring.

Ep. 48: Brian R. Solomon

This week on The Grapple of Your Eye, we’re joined by the incredible Brian R. Solomon — renowned writer, historian, and podcaster — to dive deep into his latest book, “Irresistible Force: The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon.” From the golden age of wrestling to the rise…

Ep. 47: Crusher Curtis In this week's episode we chat to British wrestling star turned promoter Crusher Curtis. He discusses his martial arts background and how he used that to transition into the world of wrestling. Listen along as he discusses his early days training through to his life on the road in a wreestling career that took him all over the world.

Ep. 47: Crusher Curtis

In this week's episode we chat to British wrestling star turned promoter Crusher Curtis. He discusses his martial arts background and how he used that to transition into the world of wrestling. Listen along as he discusses his early days training through to his life on the…

Ep. 46: Luis França Luiz França: The Forgotten Founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu He trained the poor. He defied the Gracies. He changed Jiu-Jitsu forever — and history almost erased his name. While the world credits the Gracie family for creating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, another lineage was quietly growing in the shadows — one born not in luxury, but in the favelas of Rio.His name was…

Ep. 46: Luis França

Luiz França: The Forgotten Founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu He trained the poor. He defied the Gracies. He changed Jiu-Jitsu forever — and history almost erased his name. While the world credits the Gracie family for creating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, another lineage was quietly…

Ep. 45: Tachiyama Mineemon Step into the world of Sumo’s greatest legends! 🏯💥In this episode, we explore the incredible story of Yokozuna Tachiyama Mineemon — a towering figure in Sumo history whose dominance and charisma made him one of Japan’s most unforgettable champions. Discover what set Tachiyama apart: his unbeatable winning streaks, his fearsome fighting style, and the legacy that still inspires…

Ep. 45: Tachiyama Mineemon

Step into the world of Sumo’s greatest legends! 🏯💥In this episode, we explore the incredible story of Yokozuna Tachiyama Mineemon — a towering figure in Sumo history whose dominance and charisma made him one of Japan’s most unforgettable champions. Discover what set…

Ep. 44: P.J. Montano This we we are joined by P.J. Montano, a CSW Blackbelt, proefessional referee and gym owner of UFC Gym: Anaheim, as he shares stories and insights from the world of martial arts both as a competitor and as a referee. This episode is filled with engaging conversation around grappling, catch wrestling and jiu jitsu. Whether you're into bjj, Catch As Catch Can, mma or just love hearing from heroes in the community, this episode is for you!

Ep. 44: P.J. Montano

This we we are joined by P.J. Montano, a CSW Blackbelt, proefessional referee and gym owner of UFC Gym: Anaheim, as he shares stories and insights from the world of martial arts both as a competitor and as a referee. This episode is filled with engaging conversation around…

Ep. 43: “Spartan” Sam Black New Zealand’s own “Spartan” Sam Black joins us to share his incredible journey through the world of professional wrestling — a career that’s taken him halfway across the planet. From humble beginnings to international rings, Sam brings stories, insights, and energy you won’t want to miss! Tune in for an episode packed with passion, travel, and the grind behind the glamour of pro wrestling.

Ep. 43: “Spartan” Sam Black

New Zealand’s own “Spartan” Sam Black joins us to share his incredible journey through the world of professional wrestling — a career that’s taken him halfway across the planet. From humble beginnings to international rings, Sam brings stories, insights, and energy you…

Ep. 41: Queen of the Ring Movie Special (with Ash Avildsen and Emily Bett Rickards) In this week's episode we are joined by director Ash Avildsen and star Emily Bett Rickards from the movie Queen of the Ring, available in select UK cinemas from 19th September 2015 and OnDemand from 13th October 2025. Queen of the Ring is a Sumerian Pictures Production, written and directed by Ash Avildsen (Paradise City). The film tells the remarkable true story of Mildred Burke, the first million-dollar female athlete in world history and the longest reigning champion of female wrestling.

Ep. 41: Queen of the Ring Movie Special (with Ash Avildsen and Emily Bett Rickards)

In this week's episode we are joined by director Ash Avildsen and star Emily Bett Rickards from the movie Queen of the Ring, available in select UK cinemas from 19th September 2015 and OnDemand from 13th October…

Ep. 40: Jon Owens Jon Owens is a retired police officer and veteran wrestler, who has dedicated his life to British wrestling. With over 30 years of experience, Jon shares his wrestling knowledge coupled with a deep philosophical wisdom gained through years of experience. John’s mission goes beyond the mat. In a society where many young people are struggling with issues like drugs and unemployment, John is using wrestling as a tool to build self-respect, discipline, and purpose among the youth.

Ep. 40: Jon Owens

Jon Owens is a retired police officer and veteran wrestler, who has dedicated his life to British wrestling. With over 30 years of experience, Jon shares his wrestling knowledge coupled with a deep philosophical wisdom gained through years of experience. John’s mission goes…

Ep. 38: Sean Harvey Sean Harvey is a combat veteran who was deployed in Afghanistan who now battles on as a BJJ Purple belt with multiple IBJJF gold medals, an ADCC silver medal, and numerous grappling superfight victories under his belt. Join us as we discuss his army time, his discovery of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, his battle up the belt ranks, how Jiu Jitsu helped his mental health and how he know enjoys coaching the young students of his gym. This is a open and honest discussion of one man's journey from the battlefield to the mat.

Ep. 38: Sean Harvey

Sean Harvey is a combat veteran who was deployed in Afghanistan who now battles on as a BJJ Purple belt with multiple IBJJF gold medals, an ADCC silver medal, and numerous grappling superfight victories under his belt. Join us as we discuss his army time, his discovery of…

Ep. 37: Robert Drysdale In Ep. 37, Robert Drysdale returns to the show to discuss his two new books The Triumph of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: 50 Years Of A Martial Arts Revolution and What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Today? Join us in this detailed Martial Arts interview as we delve into the history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and its cultural impact. Mr. Drysdale shares some surprising stories about the evolution of Jiu Jitsu rules and techniques. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in martial arts and the deeper aspects of BJJ.

Ep. 37: Robert Drysdale

In Ep. 37, Robert Drysdale returns to the show to discuss his two new books The Triumph of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: 50 Years Of A Martial Arts Revolution and What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Today? Join us in this detailed Martial Arts interview as we delve into the history of…

Ep. 36: Ross McFarlane Ross McFarlane is a coach at Glasgow Wrestling Club. He represented Scotland at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, achieved 5th place at the Commonwealth Championships 2013 in Johannesburg, and is a two-time British Wrestling Champion (2013 & 2014). With 25 years in the sport, Ross started at Milngavie Wrestling club in 1999 under David Scott jr/snr. He has been coaching for over 10 years, helping develop Scottish Wrestling Rising stars and leading and innvoivating kids wrestling programmes.

Ep. 36: Ross McFarlane

Ross McFarlane is a coach at Glasgow Wrestling Club. He represented Scotland at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, achieved 5th place at the Commonwealth Championships 2013 in Johannesburg, and is a two-time British Wrestling Champion (2013 & 2014). With 25 years in the…

Ep. 35: Indy “The Fire” Briar This week on The Grapple of Your Eye Show, we go deep with none other than Indy “The Fire” Briar! 💥 From the first time she hit the mats to the battles that tested her spirit, Indy opens up like never before. 🥋🔥 Hear what fuels her fire, what nearly broke her, and how she keeps rising. Whether you're a grappler, fighter, or just love a powerful story — you don't want to miss this one.

Ep. 35: Indy “The Fire” Briar

This week on The Grapple of Your Eye Show, we go deep with none other than Indy “The Fire” Briar! 💥 From the first time she hit the mats to the battles that tested her spirit, Indy opens up like never before. 🥋🔥 Hear what fuels her fire, what nearly broke her, and how…