“At what age should I stop achieving? At what age should I stop improving?”

When most people hit their 50s, they might slow down, lean into comfort, and start looking forward to retirement. Not Stuart Warren Dansby. He did the opposite—he stepped into the ring. In this powerful episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie sits down with Stuart to talk about his journey into competitive fighting later in life, a path filled with punches, humility, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Stuart shares his origin story—how a single humbling training session led him down a path of obsession with martial arts. Training alongside fighters half his age, Stuart pushed his limits physically and mentally, defying not only his age but also two severely damaged knees. His story is captured in the gripping documentary Taking the Fight, a film that chronicles his journey toward earning respect in the ring and within himself.

The conversation dives deep into what it means to face your fears, push past your limits, and embrace pain as a catalyst for growth. Stuart reflects on the power of perseverance and the importance of showing up—not just for yourself, but for those around you who look to you as a source of inspiration.

The bond between fighters, the thrill of testing one’s spirit, and the beauty of being fully present in the moment are all explored in this honest and inspiring episode. Whether you’re an aspiring fighter or simply seeking motivation to face your own challenges, Stuart’s story will remind you that the fight is always worth it—and it’s never too late to step into the ring.

Cool Things Stuart Says

• “If you’re not sore and you’re not tired, then don’t call yourself a fighter—and you’ll never be a champion.”
• “At what age should I stop achieving? At what age should I stop improving?”
• “Every one of us has a fight—we all hold ourselves back. But we can all push through.”
• “You gotta want that. You gotta wrap your soul around it.”
• “Rise, grind, function, achieve—in gratitude.”

Episode Highlights

• Stuart’s late start into martial arts and fighting in his 50s.
• His journey from being humbled in his first training session to competing against fighters 30 years younger.
• Overcoming severe knee injuries and pushing beyond physical limitations.
• The making of Taking the Fight documentary—a nine-year journey.
• The role of mentors and coaches in personal development.
• The mental resilience needed to endure hits in the ring—and in life.
• The deeper bond formed through combat and mutual respect among fighters.
• Stuart’s mantra: “Rise, grind, function, achieve—in gratitude.”
• Advice to rebels in waiting: Believe in yourself, work relentlessly, stay positive, and never stop learning.

Links from the Episode

• Taking the Fight Documentary – Available on multiple streaming platforms (Launching Sept 1)
• Stuart Warren Dansby – Taking the Fight (https://takingthefight.com/)
• Greg Choplin – WBC Muay Thai Champion (https://www.muaythaitv.com/fighters/greg-choplin-f2941.html)
• Yoel Romero – Professional MMA Fighter (https://www.ufc.com/athlete/yoel-romero)

Hosted by: Michael Dargie THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM | LINKEDIN.COM

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