The Jiu Jitsu Crucible Podcast

Episode 8 – Larissa Diaz: From Underdog to Two-Time Black Belt World Champion 🥇🇧🇷

In this inspiring episode of The Jiu Jitsu Crucible, we sit down with Larissa Diaz, a two-time IBJJF Black Belt World Champion, to explore the mindset, work ethic, and journey behind her meteoric rise in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Larissa opens up about:

• Her beginnings in Brazil and early struggles on the mats 🇧🇷
• The transition from compet...

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In Episode 7 of The Jiu Jitsu Crucible, we sit down with the legendary Rolles Gracie, a direct descendant of the iconic Gracie family, to discuss what it was really like growing up Gracie. From stories of early training in Brazil to the pressures of carrying the Gracie name, Rolles opens up about life, legacy, and the ever-evolving world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

We explore:
 ✅ The roots of the Gracie family's inf...

🎙️ Episode 6: Inside the Matchmaking Mind with Riccardo Ammendolia
The Jiu Jitsu Crucible Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by WNO Matchmaker Riccardo Ammendolia for an in-depth conversation covering many aspects of professional Jiu-Jitsu. From the inner workings of event production to athlete development and the growth of the sport, Riccardo offers valuable insights drawn from decades in the game.

Whether you're a com...

Passion to Professional with Cameron LePage

In this episode of The Jiu Jitsu Crucible, we sit down with Cameron LePage to talk about his path from passionate student to full-time Jiu-Jitsu professional. Cameron opens up about the mindset, challenges, and decisions that helped him build a career on the mats.

This episode is packed with practical advice for students, competitors, and coaches alike who are looking to turn their love for...

🎙️ Episode 4 – Elijah “Big Breakfast” Dorsey
In this episode, we sit down with rising black belt star Elijah “Big Breakfast” Dorsey to talk about his training mindset, competition strategy, and what it takes to break through on the world stage. From early days on the mat to major wins in the black belt ranks, Elijah shares real insight into the grind, the discipline, and the fuel (yes, breakfast) that drives his success. 🥋🍳

🎙️ Jiu Jitsu Crucible Podcast – Episode with Dave Kovar
Hosted by Pat Cooligan | All Things Jiu Jitsu

If you own a martial arts school — or dream of opening one — this episode is essential listening.

In this powerful conversation, Pat Cooligan sits down with Dave Kovar, one of the most respected martial arts instructors and business leaders in the world. With decades of experience running successful academies and mentoring scho...

In this episode of the Jujitsu Crucible podcast, hosts Pat and Andre Porfirio recap the highlights of the 2025 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships. They discuss standout performances from various divisions, including the dominance of Mia in the light feather category, the rise of the Funegra sisters, and Larissa Diaz's inspiring journey to her second world title. The conversation also explores the tactical choices made by competitor...

In the premiere episode of The Jiu Jitsu Crucible, hosts Pat Cooligan and André Porfirio provide an in-depth analysis of the 2025 IBJJF World Championships. Pat Cooligan, a 4th-degree black belt under Renzo Gracie and the first Canadian to receive this honor, brings decades of experience to the discussion—having attended every World Championship since 2004, starting with the iconic Roger Gracie vs. Jacaré match. André Porfirio, a d...