Gilbert Burns was born in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 20, 1986. Growing up with his brothers, he dealt with asthma and bronchitis, and his parents encouraged sports to improve their health. His father, who worked in upholstery, once traded a car seat repair job for jiu-jitsu lessons for his sons, which set Burns on the path that would define his life. He began training at around 12 years old in 1998 at Academia Associação Oriente, an affiliate of Nova União, under instructors including Welton Ribeiro. His nickname “Durinho,” meaning “little tough one,” came from his family and stuck as he rose in martial arts.Burns became an accomplished Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitor, earning a black belt under Rafael “Fofitio” Barros and winning multiple prestigious titles, including IBJJF World Championships in gi and no-gi, Brazilian Nationals, and Abu Dhabi World Pro gold medals. After reaching the top of the grappling world, he shifted his focus to mixed martial arts in 2012, building on his elite groundwork with striking and wrestling to create a more complete skillset.He debuted in the UFC in July 2014, defeating Andreas Stahl by unanimous decision. Originally competing at lightweight, he later moved up to welterweight, where he found greater success. Burns made his name in the division with big wins over fighters such as Demian Maia, Tyron Woodley, and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, eventually earning a shot at the welterweight title against Kamaru Usman. Though he fell short, he pushed the champion in a competitive fight and cemented his place among the elite.Burns fights out of Kill Cliff FC in Florida, working with striking coach Henri Hooft and grappling coach Neil Melanson, among others. Standing 5′10″ with a 71-inch reach, he is known for his aggressive style, combining knockout power with world-class submission skills. He thrives in scrambles, threatens constantly on the ground, and has developed a striking game that allows him to hold his own against anyone in the division. His toughness, pressure, and ability to finish fights both standing and on the mat have made him one of the most respected and dangerous competitors in the UFC welterweight division.

Evan Elder is a lightweight mixed martial artist from Hillsboro, Missouri, where he developed his competitive edge through sports before committing fully to MMA. He endured personal loss, including the passing of his grandfather during the buildup to his early UFC run. Early in his pro career, he relocated to South Florida to train at Kill Cliff FC (formerly Sanford MMA), working alongside world-class fighters and coaches to sharpen his skills. He later moved his training base to Las Vegas, where he now works with Syndicate MMA under experienced coaches while also making full use of the UFC Performance Institute for skill development, strength and conditioning, and recovery resources.Standing around 5'9" with a 71–72 inch reach, Elder fights comfortably from both stances, allowing him to mix sharp boxing combinations, heavy kicks, and a solid wrestling base with opportunistic submissions. Turning professional in 2017, he quickly compiled a 7-0 record on the regional circuit, earning finishes by both knockout and submission while showing the cardio to win decisions.He debuted in the UFC in April 2022 on just four days’ notice against Preston Parsons, dropping a competitive decision, and followed it with a tough doctor-stoppage loss to Nazim Sadykhov. Using those setbacks as fuel, he returned with a unanimous decision over Genaro Valdez, a second-round submission of Darrius Flowers, and another decision victory over Gauge Young.Known for his grit, high pace, and ability to adapt mid-fight, Elder is steadily building momentum in the UFC lightweight division.

Robby Ramos is a Cuban-American actor and writer from Miami, Florida. He’s best known for playing Diego Cottonmouth on the Starz show Heels, a drama about the world of professional wrestling. His character starts off as a masked heel wrestler and becomes a bigger part of the story in season two, teaming up with an older wrestling vet named Wild Bill. The role lets him show off both his physicality and his sense of humor.Robby’s Cuban roots are a big part of who he is. His grandfather was actually imprisoned in Cuba at the Presidio Modelo, which inspired Robby to write his first play, The Walls Have Ears. It’s a personal story about siblings trying to reconnect during a tense time in Cuban history.Before Heels, Robby popped up in several popular shows like The Blacklist, Orange Is the New Black, Snowfall, NCIS: Hawai'i, and Chicago P.D. On top of acting and writing, he also hosts a podcast called Dropping Character, where he chats with creatives about life, art, and everything in between.

Welcome to Backbreakers and Bites, the ultimate MMA and pro wrestling podcast where we bring together MMA fighters, pro wrestlers, and up-and-coming stars for an unforgettable experience. Join us as we sit down with Hall of Fame-bound legends and rising talents alike at their favorite local eateries. We dive deep into their careers, personal stories, and the world of combat sports, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes insights you won’t hear anywhere else.About This Episode's Guest:Luis Palomino, born in Lima, Peru, and raised in Miami, is one of the most exciting and resilient fighters in combat sports today. Known for his heart, toughness, and knockout power, he’s made a name for himself both in MMA and bare-knuckle boxing. His journey into fighting started with capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that mixes dance, acrobatics, and striking. He trained under César Carneiro, who became more than just a coach—he was like a second father to him.In MMA, Palomino fought for some of the top promotions like Bellator and World Series of Fighting (WSOF). He became especially well-known after two all-out wars with Justin Gaethje in WSOF, which are still considered some of the best fights in the promotion's history. Those matchups showed just how fearless and relentless he could be, even when facing one of the sport’s most dangerous brawlers.Eventually, he transitioned to bare-knuckle boxing with BKFC, and that’s where he really took off. He became the first fighter in the promotion’s history to hold titles in two weight classes—lightweight and welterweight. One of his biggest moments came when he knocked out Jim Alers in just 44 seconds at BKFC 14. He later defeated Elvin Brito in a five-round fight to add the welterweight belt to his collection.Palomino’s fight style is aggressive but calculated. He’s not just swinging wildly—he picks his shots, moves well, and uses angles smartly, a nod to his capoeira background. His striking is crisp, and he’s got the kind of fight IQ that comes from years of experience inside the cage and the ring.Despite never making it to the UFC—largely due to immigration issues that kept him from being signed—Palomino didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he carved out his own path and became one of the top names in bare-knuckle fighting. His story is one of grit, hustle, and refusing to be counted out.About the Restaurant:Ceviches by Divino, located at 6411 Biscayne Blvd in Miami’s MiMo District, is a standout Peruvian gastropub celebrated for its vibrant flavors and inviting atmosphere. With a modern industrial vibe, it offers a relaxed setting perfect for enjoying authentic Peruvian cuisine.The menu features a variety of traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. Signature items include the Ceviche de Ají Amarillo, Causa Crocante with tuna, and Arroz Chaufa Amazónico. Desserts like the Cheesecake de Chicha Morada and Picarones con Helado de Lúcuma provide a sweet finish to the meal. The beverage selection boasts Peruvian cocktails such as the Maracuyá Sour and Divino Mule, alongside a curated list of wines and craft beers.Patrons consistently praise the restaurant, with ratings averaging 4.9 out of 5 across various platforms. Reviews highlight the exceptional food quality, attentive service, and welcoming ambiance.

Welcome to Backbreakers and Bites, the ultimate MMA and pro wrestling podcast where we bring together MMA fighters, pro wrestlers, and up-and-coming stars for an unforgettable experience. Join us as we sit down with Hall of Fame-bound legends and rising talents alike at their favorite local eateries. We dive deep into their careers, personal stories, and the world of combat sports, offering exclusive behind-the-scenes insights you won’t hear anywhere else.About This Episode's Guest:Jay Jay Wilson, known in the MMA world as "The Māori Kid," is a professional mixed martial artist from New Zealand. Born on August 2, 1997, he hails from Glen Eden and proudly represents his Ngāti Maniapoto heritage. Standing at 5'11" with a 74-inch reach, Wilson competes in the lightweight division and has amassed a professional record of 10 wins and 1 loss. Wilson's journey into martial arts began at the age of 15 when he joined Oliver MMA in Auckland. Growing up in a challenging environment, he found solace and purpose in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and mixed martial arts. His dedication led him to train under renowned BJJ master Johnny Faria at Alliance MMA in San Diego. Wilson's grappling prowess is evident in his achievements, including a gold medal at the world Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu championships in Los Angeles. In the professional arena, Wilson has competed in major organizations like Bellator and the Professional Fighters League (PFL). His fighting style is characterized by aggressive grappling, seeking finishes through submissions and ground control. Notably, he secured multiple first-round submission victories in Bellator events, showcasing his dominance on the mat. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Wilson's personal story is marked by resilience. On the eve of his professional debut, he faced the tragic loss of his sister, Jamie. Despite the emotional turmoil, he chose to fight, honoring her memory and demonstrating unwavering determination. His journey from a troubled youth to a professional athlete serves as an inspiration, reflecting his commitment to personal growth and excellence in the sport.About the Restaraunt:Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar in Fort Lauderdale offers a vibrant and casual dining experience, bringing authentic Mexican flavors to the heart of Las Olas Boulevard. The restaurant is renowned for its freshly made guacamole prepared tableside, an extensive selection of over 425 tequilas, and a menu featuring handmade corn tortillas cooked fresh on the comal. Signature dishes include pork belly tacos, birria tacos, and sizzling molcajetes served in traditional lava rock bowls. Patrons frequently commend the lively atmosphere and attentive service. One diner described it as a "beautiful spot with fresh and delicious food," highlighting the professionalism and kindness of the staff. Another guest praised the "delicious guacamole" and "unique flavors," noting the restaurant's suitability for groups and its energetic vibe. While some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies, such as food temperature or seasoning, the overall consensus emphasizes the enjoyable ambiance and quality offerings.Whether you're seeking a festive evening out or a flavorful meal, Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar provides a memorable Mexican dining experience in Fort Lauderdale.

About This Episode's Guest:Charles "InnerG" Johnson, born on January 10, 1991, in Topeka, Kansas, is an American mixed martial artist competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He trains out of Fusion Xcel and has been active in professional MMA since 2016. ​Before embarking on his MMA career, Johnson was a distinguished multi-sport athlete. He earned All-State honors in four sports within a single year and achieved recognition as an AAU All-American in track and field. Johnson competed at the Division I level in cross country and track, showcasing his exceptional athletic versatility. ​Turning professional in 2016, Johnson amassed a record of 17 wins and 7 losses. He secured seven victories by knockout and three by submission, including techniques such as the Anaconda, Brabo, and Kimura chokes. Notably, he achieved four first-round finishes. ​Johnson's tenure with the Legacy Fighting Alliance (LFA) was marked by significant success. He became a three-time LFA Flyweight Champion, defending his title in memorable bouts. One highlight was his fifth-round knockout of Carlos Mota at LFA 122 on January 21, 2022. ​In the UFC, Johnson faced a series of formidable opponents. His debut on July 23, 2022, resulted in a unanimous decision loss to Muhammad Mokaev. However, he rebounded with notable victories, including a split decision win over Zhalgas Zhumagulov on November 19, 2022, and a first-round TKO against Jimmy Flick on January 14, 2023. His most recent bout, on March 1, 2025, ended in a unanimous decision loss to Ramazan Temirov. ​Beyond the octagon, Johnson is a dedicated father and engages in creative pursuits such as graphic design and music. He has also contributed to his community in St. Louis, organizing events and coaching high school wrestling for five years. ​

Ailín Pérez, known by her nickname "Fiona," is an Argentine professional mixed martial artist competing in the women's bantamweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on October 5, 1994, in Zárate, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pérez began her martial arts journey at the age of 11, training in kung fu and sanda. At 20, she relocated to Buenos Aires to further her skills in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, marking her transition into mixed martial arts. Pérez fights with a switch stance and is affiliated with The Goat Shed training facility. Her fighting style is rooted in kung fu, complemented by a red belt in the discipline and a brown belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This diverse background contributes to her dynamic approach in the octagon.Pérez's professional MMA career commenced in 2018. She gained prominence by securing the Samurai Fight House Bantamweight Championship twice. In August 2021, she claimed the vacant title with a first-round knockout via a head kick against Alessandra Tainara. Although she lost the title in November 2021 due to a disqualification against Tamires Vidal, Pérez rebounded by reclaiming the championship in May 2022 with a victory over Stephanie Bragayrac. Pérez made her UFC debut on September 3, 2022, facing Stephanie Egger but suffered a second-round submission loss. Demonstrating resilience, she secured consecutive victories in her subsequent UFC bouts. Notably, on July 15, 2023, she defeated Ashlee Evans-Smith by unanimous decision, setting a women's bantamweight takedown record in the process. She continued her winning streak with unanimous decision victories over Lucie Pudilová on November 18, 2023, and Joselyne Edwards on June 1, 2024. On September 28, 2024, Pérez showcased her submission skills by defeating Darya Zheleznyakova in the first round via arm-triangle choke. Her most recent victory came on January 18, 2025, where she earned a unanimous decision against Karol Rosa at UFC 311. As of February 18, 2025, Pérez is ranked #8 in the UFC women's bantamweight division. Her journey from local martial arts in Argentina to the global stage of the UFC highlights her dedication and evolution as a mixed martial artist.

About the Guest:Britain Hart was born on February 2, 1990, in Layton, Utah. She is a professional bare-knuckle boxer competing in the BKFC. She competes in the strawweight division and is known for her aggressive style.Hart began her combat sports career in traditional boxing before transitioning to bare-knuckle fighting. Her professional boxing record was 4 wins, 4 losses, and 3 draws. Early in her career, she struggled financially and even lived in her car. Despite setbacks, she remained committed to combat sports and sought new opportunities.In 2018, Hart made her bare-knuckle debut at BKFC 2 against Bec Rawlings. She lost a split decision but showed resilience and skill. Her bare-knuckle career had a rough start, including a TKO loss to Christine Ferea in 2019. Despite these challenges, she kept improving and refining her strategy.Her breakthrough came when she earned her first BKFC victory against Randine Eckholm. She then fought former UFC star Paige VanZant and won a unanimous decision. This win cemented her reputation as a serious contender in BKFC. She became known for her clinch work, relentless pressure, and ability to control fights.On September 10, 2022, Hart won the inaugural BKFC women’s strawweight title. She successfully defended her belt three times, tying the record for most female title defenses in BKFC history. Her dominant performance against Taylor Starling on August 3, 2024, showcased her growth and elite skills.Hart’s fighting style is aggressive, high-paced, and technically sound. She uses her reach well, landing sharp combinations and mixing head and body shots. Her ability to absorb damage and push forward makes her one of BKFC’s toughest fighters. She excels in close-range exchanges and uses counter-punching effectively.Outside the ring, Hart resides in Bedford, Virginia, where she focuses on training and personal growth. She balances her tough fighting persona with interests in modeling and acting. Her journey from early career struggles to championship success highlights her determination. She has become one of BKFC’s most respected and exciting fighters.

Jonathan Scibica, born in Miami, Florida, is a professional boxer and coach with a career spanning over 14 years. Beyond his personal achievements in the ring, Jonathan co-owns Level Up Boxing and Fitness in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As the lead coach, he shares his extensive knowledge of boxing, offering training to individuals aiming to turn professional and those seeking comprehensive full-body workouts.Jonathan's commitment to fitness and combat sports extends to his active presence on social media platforms, where he shares insights into his training methods and experiences. On Instagram, he connects with a community of fitness enthusiasts and fellow athletes, providing glimpses into his daily routines and professional journey.In addition to boxing, Jonathan has embraced professional wrestling, participating in events like Coastal Championship Wrestling's The Kumite, where he has faced opponents such as Pretty Rich Wise. This transition showcases his versatility and passion for various combat sports disciplines.Jonathan's dedication to his craft and his community continues to inspire those around him, as he balances his roles as a competitor, coach, and mentor in the world of combat sports.

About This Episode's Guest:Dustin "Scrappy" Lampros, born April 17, 1994, in Freeburg, Illinois, is a professional mixed martial artist. He competes in the bantamweight and featherweight divisions, standing 5 feet 7 inches tall. Lampros has built an impressive professional record, winning mostly by knockout. His aggressive striking and finishing ability make him a dangerous opponent.In 2021, he gained national recognition as a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter 29 (TUF 29). He competed under the coaching of UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski. His time on the show ended with a first-round TKO loss to Vincent Murdock. The experience gave him valuable exposure and training with elite fighters. The Ultimate Fighter helped cement his reputation as a relentless competitor.Throughout his career, Lampros has showcased explosive striking and well-rounded grappling skills. Notable victories include a first-round TKO against Scott Ettling at Shamrock FC 349. Another highlight was his third-round TKO over Brandon Ball at Shamrock FC 339. His aggressive pace and finishing instinct make him exciting to watch.Outside the cage, Lampros is dedicated to community safety. He founded 561 Predator Catcher (561PC) to expose online predators. His team works with decoys to identify individuals targeting minors. Their efforts have led to multiple arrests in the Delray Beach area.Lampros balances a rigorous training schedule with his advocacy work. He continues to push forward in his fighting career while helping his community. His dedication in and out of the cage reflects his strong values.