Find the fighter in you!

 

In today’s episode of ‘Chats & Tatts’ Podcast by Aaron Della Vedova, I am joined by Chris “The Crippler” Leben, an American former mixed martial artist, referee, and bare-knuckle boxer. Also, he’s a former WEC champion, UFC fighter, MMA coach, and MMA referee!

 

Chris competed in the MMA from 2002 to 2013, one of the most notable fighters in the Middleweight division, holding a record of 12-10 in his 22 appearances. He was one of the most controversial and outspoken fighters in history due to his abrasive and melancholy personality, which he developed during his childhood.

 

His love for fighting began in the early stage and he was very keen to learn boxing and wrestling. Fast forward, he was considered one of the most legendary fighters in history today. But it was not an easy road for Chris, as he struggled with big issues and challenges in life, such as drugs, alcohol, divorce, and anxiety.

 

So if you want to know more about Chris’ journey to success and fame, what’s it like to live on the edge, his life after MMA, and the real value of his tattoos, head over to listen to this week’s episode!

Timestamps:

0:52 - Guest intro

2:17 - The impact of Chris’ childhood experiences on his fighting career

12:47 - How Chris became a UFC fighter

15:15 - Fame: Pros and cons of being famous

18:26 - UNCUT! Chris Leben’s on drugs, alcohol, parties, and women

22:11 - How Chris overcome anxiety and drug addiction

36:01 - What is success

49:08 - Is fighting a good sport?

56:53 - The transition of MMA from a barbaric sport to being the best combat sport today

1:01:54 - Chris reveals the reasons behind his tattoos

1:14:09 - His post-struggle after battling with a serious CoVid disease

Quotations: 

 

“My mantra in my younger life is  ‘Everything in excess, nothing in moderation. Go fast, kick ass, chug beers, and crank tunes.’” - Chris Leben

 

“Bad things happen to us in life, the perspective can change it a hundred percent.” - Aaron Della Vedova

 

“You spend your whole life saying yes, and then when you find success, you learn the art of saying no, occasionally.” - Aaron Della Vedova

 

“You gotta manage your time… Time is our most valuable asset.” - Chris Leben

Useful Resources:

• Get a copy of the book: The Crippler: Cage Fighting and My Life on the Edge by Chris Leben

 

Get in touch:

• Follow Chris on trainingcentersd.com, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Connect with Aaron: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronVedova
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.dellavedova/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chatsandtatts/featured