VERBAL TAP (Episode 196) with Nic Gregoriades

Kevin's Description: The guys spent a weekend training in cool places.

Kevin spent 10 hours with Professor Xande Ribeiro learning what jiu-jitsu greatness looks like. Raf went to the always amazing Jiu-Jitsu in the Park.

Then, from Jiu-Jitsu Brotherhood and all around awesome guy Nic Gregoriades joins the podcast.

The guys have 50 questions for him, join in on an a really fun interview.

Listen.

Raf's Recollection: Earlier this summer, I had the good fortune of getting to train with our good pal Nic Gregoriades.  He was nice enough to come do a free seminar over at John Evans' Breakdown Academy.  He's not the type to boast about it all that much (Nic tends to be super humble about the things he does), but I think it's important to note that he did as a favor to John and myself because he loves spreading his knowledge of jiu-jitsu with others.  

Hell, I even recall dozens of people chiming in from all over the world to come attend his seminar (literally, one dude was on vacation from Australia who was stoked he was in town the same time as Nic). 

What I like about Nic's approach to jiu-jitsu is that he has a diverse game that can see both the importance of the conceptual game, as well as the importance of having a solid foundation and systematic recall.  On this episode, we talk a little bit about what Nic has been up to, what we can expect to see from the guy in the upcoming few months, and we even get him to tell us a little bit about the people who he's always looked up to (and modeled part of his own unique game after) in the gentle art.

And because I feel it's only appropriate to brag on his behalf, our last episode with Nic stayed in our Top 10 most listened-to podcasts for over 3 years.  It only recently dropped out of our Top 10 (literally just a couple weeks ago) and while other athletes tend to get competitive and want to get back on the Top 10 when they drop out (I won't name names), Nic just chuckled and said, "that's beautiful, bro," as if to share some excitement that people enjoyed our last discussion, our show was continuing to grow, and that his void on the list presented a great new opportunity for the jiu-jitsu athletes and personalities we interview.

Ya know, a real jerk-like attitude.   

I can't say enough good things about the guy.  I hope you enjoy this episode and if you care to listen to our last chat with Nic, you can listen to that episode (Episode 60) right HERE.  

Also, go check out Nic's website jiujitsubrotherhood.com to keep up with all of his latest.

QUOTABLE: 

“When you were telling that story all I could think of was ‘that’s not a knife.’ I said to myself, I’m going to do a whole scene just so I can do this one really dumb and shitty joke — and I don’t care how long it takes me to get there.”

— Raf, before dual impressions of Nic and Kit Dale

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 196), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

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VERBAL TAP (Episode 195) with Josh Palmer, UFC 204 Recap

Kevin's Description: They brought the British guy from Polaris back!! Yes we did, listen in as we talk to GSP, talk UFC 204, talk a little Polaris, and look at the beauty  Valor Fight Gear USA.  Listen in, fun podcast.

Raf's Recollection: This was a rough one to watch.  

Dan Henderson left it all in that Octagon at UFC 204 -- with some making the argument the oldest dude in the UFC actually beat the  middleweight champ, Michael Bisping.  But sadly, the judges did not see fit to award the decision to Hendo for his powerful punches (or really give him a fitting way to exit the UFC). 

While that was a bit of a bummer, I suppose we can take solace in knowing that Hendo went out better than most people when they have to call it quits in the sport of mixed martial arts. 

Nonetheless, we invited our pal Josh Palmer to return on the show to tell us how he saw that fight go down with his extremely biased British eyes.  Come for the witty banter about MMA, stay for myself and Kev giving him shit about British colloquialisms.  

In case you missed Dan's final post-presser speech (at least we hope/think), feel free to watch it below.  Plus, if you're feeling up for some extra credit, listen in to the very sassy remarks from one Gegard Mousasi, who stole the show with his hilarious one-liners at the press conference.  

Watch the UFC 204 post-fight press conference live following the event.

QUOTABLE: 

“So when you create something like the UFC... like America did — I mean technically some Brazilians did — but they were in AMERICA! Their business was here. And I’ll tell you one thing the red, white, and blue... these colors don’t run because here in America when you feel like you wanna watch something, you make other countries fall in line. That’s why we are here: guns, eagles, fireworks, hot dogs, and all of those other things. And that’s why your main card doesn’t start till 2 or 3 a.m.” ”

— Raf giving Josh mess for saying the UFC panders to the US Audience

Go support Josh at the following places: 

Instagram: @JoshPalmerMMA

Twitter: @JoshPalmerMMA

ValorFightWear.com

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 195), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

VERBAL TAP (Episode 194) with Josh Palmer, UFC 204 Preview

UFC

Kevin's Description: Polaris Pro was gracious enough to lend Josh Palmer for a night, and we took him.

For no reason at all he stopped by to play Over/Under Kevin UFC 204.

The podcast goes into:

Inside MMA, UFC New Owners Ya or Nay?, UFC 204, AJ Agazarm, Josh Palmer, Polaris Pro 4, BJJ, Over/Under Kevin, and ValorFightWear.com.

Listen in, this podcast is a blast.

Raf's Recollection | I'd like to think I'm the Joe Silva of figuring out Over/Under Kevin opponents on this podcast.  

When I first got word that the UFC was going to unnecessarily give Dan Henderson a chance to fight for the middleweight title, I thought who better to embody the forced-marketing spirit of UK vs. USA than our pal Josh Palmer.

Now I can hear some of you out there saying, "Raf, that name sounds familiar, but is there any way you can help me remember exactly who you're talking about?" 

No problem, I've got you covered fam.  It's this guy.

THROWBACK: When We First Met Josh Palmer

THIS WEEK'S PODCAST: goo.gl/SE3CRK THROWBACK: You can listen to our pal, voice of Polaris Professional Jiu Jitsu Invitational, Josh Palmer discuss his thoughts on #UFC204 on this week's podcast with myself and Kevin. But don't forget when we first crossed paths with the adorable bjj broadcaster.

Posted by Verbal Tap Podcast on Thursday, October 13, 2016

Yep.  That guy.  Josh Palmer, the voice of Polaris.  

Giant mistake aside, Josh is one of the nicest human beings we have encountered in the MMA and BJJ scene and, like me, shares a true passion for broadcasting.  

And here's the thing, as sweet and nice as this guy is, he goes for the jugular on Kevin, doing the best to ensure that he will take away a win against Kevin's UFC 204 picks.  So tune in as we do our best to exploit the already well-exploited UK vs. USA angle.

Oh, and we also chat about the now finalized Polaris Pro card.  We CANNOT wait for Polaris 4.

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 194), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

While you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

And go support Josh at the following places: 

Instagram: @JoshPalmerMMA

Twitter: @JoshPalmerMMA

ValorFightWear.com

Banner Photo: Callum Medcraft/BJJ Style

VERBAL TAP (Episode 193) with Josh Hayden

Kevin's Description: This week stars with a recap of UFC Fight Night Cyborg vs. Lansberg and Rizin FF 2. Then the guys nerd out with leg lock specialist and EBI standout Josh Hayden. Join in as Josh discusses his leg lock system, how he trains, and what's next for the grappling star. Listen in, this podcast is a blast.

FULL EPISODE: goo.gl/K4znqy VERBAL TAP Clip: This week our pal Josh Hayden picked up a major sponsorship from the great guys at Phalanx Athletics. However, his jiu-jitsu is so solid we felt it necessary to score the guy some more sponsorships so we can get more opportunities to see him crush it on the mats. As such, Kevin and I play our favorite game of "Let's Get This Person Sponsored."

Posted by Verbal Tap Podcast on Friday, September 30, 2016

We caught up with EBI 8 stand out JOSH HAYDEN moments after his spectacular performance at the tournament. Not only so we find out what makes the weight cuts difficult for Josh, but we also find out what kept him of the mats for 6 months(!).

Jon Anik caught up with Cris Cyborg and Lina Lansberg after their clash in the main event at Fight Night Brasilia.

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 193), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

VERBAL TAP (Episode 192)

Kevin's Description: Raf and Kevin start the show with a round up of the things you missed in the Grappling call out community this week.

A lot of Gordon Ryan call outs with a few bizarre twists. Check out this episode, the guys cover Gordon Ryan vs. Claudio, Keenan out of EBI8, Vinny in EBI8, Gordon vs. Mike Perez, Grappling Industries, and finally a live Garry Tonon vs. DJ Jackson viewing.

In an after thought, Raf watched the UFC and will update you about that. Listen in, fun podcast.

Raf's Recollection | 

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 192), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

VERBAL TAP (Episode 191) goes to EBI 8

Kevin's Description: First up this weekend was UFC 203 in Ohio, there was an elevator incident.

Then EBI8 stole the weekend with an unbelievable event.

Check out this week when Mike Stallings returns to face Kevin in Over/Under Kevin.

Topics covered this week:

EBI8, Gordon Ryan is awesome, Josh Hayden is awesome, EBI9 Keenan, UFC 203, Miocic, CM Punk, Ohio, and Drew Dober.

Tune in.

Raf's Recollection |  Words.

VerbalTapCast, YouTube

More Words.

VerbalTapCast, YouTube

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 191), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

VERBAL TAP (Episode 190) with Mike Stallings

Kevin's Description: Raf was awake for UFC Fight Night Germany Barnett vs. Arlovski and has all the important details. Then, Mike Stallings from Heel Section stops by to play Over/Under Kevin UFC 203. The crew debates: UFC 205, CM Punk, Overreem vs. Miocic, Ohio as a State, Verdum vs. Browne, Faber, Gall, Andrade vs. Calderwood, and which Magalhaes is that? Listen in, fun podcast.

UFC, YouTube

Raf's Recollection |  Early morning UFCs can be a bit much.  This whole starting prelims at 8:45 am really doesn't work for me (I'm not a morning person).  

Yet I woke up and watched the fights so I could bring you the type of analysis you've come to love from us here at Verbal Tap.

Aside from recapping those fights, we take a look at the future -- mainly, the future of UFC 203 with our special guest Mike Stallings.  As many of you know, Mike co-hosts another podcast with me called HEEL SECTION that's dedicated to the deconstruction of pro wrestling stories and angles.  

Which makes Mike the perfect person to talk with about the upcoming UFC debut of one CM Punk.

The entire world seems to think Punk is on his way to a fast-tracked beating at the hands of Mickey Gall, but we at least have the guts to ask if he has a fighting chance.  Listen in to find out if you agree with our assessments. 

And if you want to hear more about Mike's time on the podcast, you can listen to this week's episode of HEEL SECTION right HERE where we talk about ugly WWE Universal Championship belts, Kevin Owens, and the awesomeness that is the Cruiserweight Classic.

And if you have any problems downloading this week's episode of VERBAL TAP (Episode 190), you can download the episode right HERE.

You can also listen to this episode on Stitcher.

Don't forget to subscribe to us on iTunes.

And while you're at it follow us on social media:

Facebook: /VerbalTapCast

Twitter: @VerbalTapCast

Instagram: @VerbalTapCast

Vine: @VerbalTapCast

VERBAL TAP (Episode 189) on Rory MacDonald Going To Bellator

UFC, YouTube

Kevin's Description: The fight between Maia and Condit was outstanding.

Join in as the guys nerd out about IBJJF Masters Worlds, UFC Fight Night Carlos Condit vs. Demian Maia, Showtime Pettis, VanZant, and the epic saga of Joe Lauzon vs. Jim Miller.

Plus, you'll never be able to guess which Canadian Bellator fighter joins us up top for some Hot Fire.

UFC, YouTube

Everytime @demianmaia fights, he does #brazilianjiujitsu proud. We're huge supporters of Carlos Condit on this podcast, but tonight was something else. Maia's execution is out of control. #ufconfox21 #demianmaia #carloscondit

See this Instagram video by @verbaltapcast * 254 likes

Raf's Recollection | It's been a strange week in MMA.  

First you have people talking about Rory MacDonald jumping ship (likely for some more cash money), but then you had a solid UFC on FOX event that delivered some awesome fights for the fans.

This week, we not only try to make some sense of it all (Should Demian Maia fast pass his way to a title shot, what does this mean for Carlos Condit, and how many times did Brian Stann jinx the outcomes of the fights with his commentary on the mic).

We also try to comfort those who were in the way of Rafael Lovato Jr. and other notable superstars who decided to crash this year's old man worlds. 

Also, I may or may not do a Rory Macdonald impression.

Maybe.

I promise nothing. 

Except for maybe this awesome Damien Maia meme attached here.  I hope you all enjoy!

Bellator MMA, YouTube

If you have any problems listening to this week's episode (Episode 189), you can download this week's podcast right HERE.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 188) UFC 202 Recap, SummerSlam

Kevin's Description: The show opens with some WWE Summer Slam updates, including a special Brock Lesnar ending breakdown.

Then, Raf and Kevin dig deep into UFC 202 with the rumors, the fights, the finishes, and the Diaz insight.

Listen in, topics include:

Brock Lesnar stealing MMA Fans with MMA moves, Rumble Johnson, Johnson vs. D.C., McGregor vs. Diaz, the Decision, Diaz vs. Danis, the Round by Round, the Post Diaz, Weed Pens, Donald Cerrone, and what is Dana on.

UFC on FOX

UFC on FOX

Raf's Recollection | On this week's episode, not only do we discuss the results of Overt/Under Kevin: UFC 202, but we take an in-depth look at the big fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz.

Along the way, we respond to some internet trolls, the controversial decision that has caused a bit of a bitter divide on social media, and even discuss some of the future implications. 

PLUS: How fucking good is Anthony "Rumble" Johnson?   It's a good thing the nickname rumble fits like him a glove, otherwise we'd have to seriously consider the use of the name "The Dentist."

Also, we discuss the power of one Donald Cerrone and have Kevin air his grievances about an often-used form of color commentary.

Oh, and we might have talked with "Nate Diaz," no big. 

Listen in and let us know what you think! 

And if you have any problems listening to the episode above, you can download EPISODE 188 right HERE!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 187) with McDojoLife's Rob Ingram

Grappling Industries, Facebook

Kevin's Description: The greatest submission only event no-time limit fight just took place (this from Kevin's recency bias).

The guys discuss Gordon Ryan's amazing submission victory over Keenan Cornelius and if you want more head over to RafEsparza.com (Raf wrote about it).

Rob Ingram stops by from McDojo Life to play Over/Under Kevin UFC 202 against Kevin. If you know anything about Rob, you'll want to listen in. If you don't.....give it 5 mins.

Raf's Recollection | One of the more lively Over/Under Kevin's we've had.  McDojo's Rob Ingram drops by to talk about calling out BS martial artists and then sticks around to take on Kevin's UFC 202 picks.

And I'm not promising anything, but maybe Nate Diaz shows up.

Shut up, I said I'm not promising anything!!!

Oh, and also, we talk about how people still find ways to bitch about a free match with Keenan Cornelius and Gordon Ryan.

Listen in and tell a friend folks!

And if you're having any problems with accessing the file here, you can download EPISODE 187 right here.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 186) on Conor vs. The WWE

Kevin's Description:

This podcast runs deep with monologue jokes that will take you on a journey.

The guys talk: Bisping vs. Hendo, Conor McGregor vs. WWE, Nate Diaz, UFC Fight Night, and Travis Conley wins Fight to Win Pro.

Listen in, this podcast has America.

Raf's Recollection: 

VERBAL TAP (Episode 185) with Brandon Mccaghren

Kevin's Description: This podcast runs deep with monologue jokes that will take you on a journey. The guys talk: Bisping vs. Hendo, Conor McGregor vs. WWE, Nate Diaz, UFC Fight Night, and Travis Conley wins Fight to Win Pro. Listen in, this podcast has America.

Raf's Recollection - Yeah, we know that's not a picture of Brandon Mccaghren, tune in to find out why we used it.

Plus, hear all about Brandon's latest venture, Leglock Academy and how this major project with Alan Belcher and Nathan Orchard came together.

Plus, we get to hear some inside scoop of how everything went down at UFC 201 (Brandon was in the ATL and tells us everything he saw).

Plus, if you haven't already read my tweet recap of the event, head HERE.

And if you want to know the big project I'm working on over the next 30 days, head HERE.

You can also download the entire episode (#185) right HERE!

VERBAL TAP (Episode 184) Kev Visits LA

Kevin's Description: The guys trained for over 15 hours together, listen in as they recap the LA jiu-jitsu quest, UFC Fight Night 20, Fight to Win Pro 8, David Rickles, and all things jiu-jitsu.

Raf's Recollection: Last month, my wife and podcast co-host conspired to put together an awesome birthday gift.  As one of my birthday gifts, my wife surprised me by arranging a trip for Kevin to make his way out to LA for a few days and train.

Anybody who listens to the podcast knows that Kev and I usually get to see one another for short periods of time every 6 months or so.  And despite my on-air hatred for the individual, doing the podcast and working with him in person is way more fun than it is on Skype.  When we're both in the same room doing the podcast, the show has an entirely different feel.  

However, since this gift was given to me as a form of vacation, I elected not to do any work with the guy, but to just have fun and train.

And train we did.

All together, I think we logged in about 8 hours of training (2 of that being pure rolling).

Also, anybody who listens in to the show also knows how competitive Kevin and I can be in real life.  It's a friendly rivalry, one where we both wish one another well and often give tips to the other on technique.  But when it comes to training, we definitely amp up our respective levels.

I like to think of Kevin as a pacesetter for my own jiu-jitsu.  He's somebody who I can often monitor my own progress and get constructive feedback on the things I need to work on most.  In many ways, I'd like to think I do the same for him.

In doing so, I can honestly say that rolling with the guy makes me sharper.  Kevin is a tough roll, he's good at many of the opposite things that I'm good at, and he has a very creative way he likes to aggressively attack.  All of those things make me have to work harder.  If things were different and we were in the same place training regularly, I am quite certain our respective jiu-jitsu levels would be even higher.

Nonetheless, I liked the time that we got to train.  We nerded out on a number of techniques and spent a large amount of time trying to perfect moves that will hopefully become the norm.  In the latest episode of the podcast, we talk a little bit about those training experiences.  But I'd like to thank him and my wife for conspiring together for a truly wonderful birthday gift.  

Having also now trained for Kevin (believe it or not, I did train some things specifically for rolls against him), I'll also be looking to put a new challenge on my plate.  I think I have an idea of what it is and will share in an upcoming post.  Until then, I hope you enjoy the latest episode of our show.

EPISODE DOWLOAD: Here.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 183) Goes To EBI 7

PBS News Hour, YouTube

Kevin's Description: Listen in as the guys bring on Dana White to discuss the UFC Sale, Brock Lesnar, and speaking at the Republican National Convention.

Yes, he really is.

Then they turn to grappling, listen in, this podcast is fun.

Topics:

Metamoris 7, EBI 7, Brock Lesnar, Dana White, and Fight to Win Pro Lovato vs. Cyborg.

Eddie Bravo, YouTube

Raf's Recollection | 

VERBAL TAP (Episode 182) with Garry Tonon, UFC 200 Recap

Kevin's Description: It happened and Verbal Tap has Garry "The Lion Killer" Tonon back to talk smack and who won Over / Under Kevin UFC 200. The guys breakdown all the fights and talk a little Metamoris 7 Ralek vs. Garry. Listen in, this podcast has everything.

VerbalTapCast, YouTube

UFC, YouTube

Raf's Recollection | 

VERBAL TAP (Episode 181) with Garry Tonon, UFC 200 Preview

Kevin's Description: The guys open up with thoughts about Enson Inoue. Then, there is no one better to celebrate a landmark event with, tune in as Garry Tonon talks about his fight against Ralek and joins us for Over/Under Kevin UFC 200. Garry is the most exciting grappler on the planet for a reason, he knows how to compete. Tune in.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 180) with Val Worthington

Kevin's Description: Kevin is headed to LA, hear how Raf found out. Valerie Worthington is the guest this week, she wrote a book entitled "How a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Road Trip Jump-Started My Search for a Fulfilling Life." She's amazing, the book is remarkable, and you should buy it and listen to this podcast. Listen in, we love you.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 179) on the UFC Sale

Kevin's Description: Raf got cut on his face. Then the guys talk: Inside BJJ, UFC For Sale, GSP vs. BJ Penn, CM Punk UFC 203 probably, and Anderson Silva calls out Michael Bisping. Listen in, the debate is amazing.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 178) on LeBron, Ohio

Kevin's Description: We talk about Lebron James, The Cavs winning, the Orange County Rescue Mission open mat, Budo Videos, Fight to Win Pro 6, World Series of Fighting, Bellator, UFC Comedy, UFC News, Canada, GSP, Dana White, and the UFC being for sale.

VERBAL TAP (Episode 177) with Dan Miller

Kevin's Description: Dan Miller is amazing, he's fought everyone Sonnen, Bisping, Maia, and his bother. Tune in as he talks about his upcoming fight against Jeff Monson on July 23rd with Pro-Jitsu (www.pro-jitsu.com). This podcast is an absolute UFC / Grappling Nerd's dream.