On this episode, I had the privilege of speaking to Moroccan Fighter Youseff Zalal who currently has an undefeated record in the UFC. He shared his story of growing up in Morocco to how he got into the UFC. Although he is just 23 years old, Youseff's journey so far has been an intriguing one and the timestamps for each segment are below:

(00:01:25)- Mother’s influence and growing up in Morocco

(00:02:30)- Starting kickboxing classes with his sister at 10 years old.

(00:04:10)- First kickboxing fight in Morocco and moving to the United States for a better future

(00:06:50)- Father’s influence, joining American Top Team whilst in high school and having Bobby Lashley as his wrestling coach

(00:09:15)- First ever Jiu Jitsu class- one of the worst days of Zalal’s life

(00:15:20)- MMA Debut at 18 in the US, Joining Factory X and Amateur Career

(00:18:10)- Why Zalal no longer fights during Ramadhan, why going professional at 135 pounds was a mistake and LFA debut.

(00:24:00)- Going back to Morocco to see his family after 10 years

(00:26:30)- Flying Knee KO and then signing with the UFC.

(00:29:30)- Recap of Youseff’s first two fights in the UFC, PPV experience, Quarantine and Ramadhan.

(00:39:00)- Fighting with no crowd and what Dominic Cruz said to him after the fight before the judges decision.

(00:40:50)- Moving down to Bantamweight and Youseff’s Top 3 favourite fighters to watch

(00:43:25)- UFC 251 Predictions

(00:47:30)- Zalal’s one word thoughts on some Bantamweight/Featherweight contenders.

(00:50:10)- When does Zalal want to get back into the Octagon?

 

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