The MMA Mad Podcast

Hope you all had a great 2017. Look forward to seeing you all in 2018. Enjoy this celebratory PartyCast w/three of my dearest friends.

Direct download: Episode_137.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:47pm EDT

This week, we're joined by Andre Soukhamthath and Marc Diakiese right before the holidays. One is coming off a huge win, one is looking for a huge win and both are great recurring guests. Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_136.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:46pm EDT

Apologies for the late release, but this one was a great one!

James Lynch is one of my closest friends in this business and truly one of the best people I know. We always have great conversations, but this was a true marathon of topics. Podcasting, comedy, MMA (obviously)... we riff on it all. 

Seriously, I stand by the quality of all my episodes (at least recently haha) but this one stands out.

Rate, review, subscribe and most importantly...

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_135.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 12:01pm EDT

I discuss the announcement of Stipe Miocic vs. Francis Ngannou and the launch of our new YouTube series "MMA Mad Unfiltered"

It may be December, but it's never too late for a little Halloween special. Nate joins me to break down his top Halloween movies and TV Shows.

In the After Show, I recommend five of my favorite podcasts for your listening pleasure. Listen to the shows that I listen to.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_134.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 2:09am EDT

This was a good one guys. Worth the wait.

I drove up to Worcester, Massachusetts to do a little podcasting with my good friend Matteo Urella. We got into UFC 218, trash talking in MMA, my work with TheDisorderly.com and more.

Plus, a little bonus guest appearance from Matteo's daughter; our first baby guest.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_133.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:43pm EDT

New episode for your listening pleasure!!

Jimmie Rivera just received some unfortunate news with the Dominick Cruz cancellation. We got into that, UFC 217 and more.

Louis Smolka is always a great guest. Unfiltered doesn't begin to describe it. 

And shoutout to KFC Radio on hitting the big 300 episode milestone. One of my favorite podcasts, check it out!!

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_132.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:58pm EDT

Really fun episode this week!!

First, Robbie Fox (Barstool Sports) stops by to talk UFC 217 and Barstool HQ goings-on. He's quickly become one of the site's rising stars and it's always good to catch up with him. 

Then, Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson joins us to discuss his win over Jorge Masvidal, the drama with Darren Till and a whole bunch of comic book stuff.

Plus, Monica talks Rose Namajunas, favorite holiday traditions and more on a brand new Outside The Bubble. She hops on the intro and outro, as well. Stick around to the very end for a little bonus OTB.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_131.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 1:10am EDT

This is your officially unofficial UFC 217 preview show. Cortney Casey is sandwiched between an intro/outro Coast-To-Coast combo. We start by discussion some big headlines outside of MMA, then finish with a bunch of UFC topics.

Cortney Casey looks forward to her UFC 218 bout against Felice Herrig and helps me break down every fight on the UFC 217 main card.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_130.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:54pm EDT

Rate, review subscribe!!

Mount Rushmore podcast guest David St. Martin joins me for an epic conversation about his new website TheDisorderly.com. Basically, he scours the internet for any and all intriguing stories from the world of sports and entertainment, then compiles it into one easy-to-read daily post. 

In this episode, we got into his plans for the site and the vulnerability that comes with putting yourself out there, creatively. We also discussed the rise of Barstool Sports, power-hungry redditors, nerdy Halloween parties and more.

One of the best DSM appearances to date and that's saying something.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_129.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:50am EDT

Friend of the show James Lynch is now a full-time freelance MMA journalist and I couldn't be happier for him. One of the nicest guys in the business and a GREAT podcast guest.

Oh and Wonderboy was supposed to be on. We recorded. It was a fantastic interview. But it didn't record. Sorry guys. Wonderboy is doing great by the way... in case you were wondering.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_128.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:59pm EDT

I took a trip down to Underdog MMA in Hartford to interview podcast favorite Matt Bessette and his head coach Russell Leak. We got into anything and everything both inside MMA and far outside the cage. Truly one of my favorite episodes of all time.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_127.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:41pm EDT

Ken Rodriguez has been in the podcasting game for a long time. Like... a REALLY long time. Starting back in 2008, he's gone through the ups and downs of this wild and crazy medium, ultimately arriving at MMA Dude Bro, his ironically named intellectual take on MMA podcasting.

Ken and I have crossed paths on social media for years now and it was great to finally have him on the show. If you like the MMA Mad Podcast, you'll like MMA Dude Bro and vice versa. 

Today, we talked podcasting, got into some MMA headlines/discussion of upcoming fights, and more.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_126.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 9:22pm EDT

Another week, another technical difficulty. After recording a fantastic interview with the streaking Anthony Smith, I discovered that one half of said recording was lost. In other words, you could basically only hear me talking to the wind for 45 minutes. Devastating to say the least. My apologies to Anthony Smith (who was a great guest!!) but we hope to have him on again.

Lucky for you guys, podcast favorite Bryan Lacey stepped in to save the day, joining me on the intro and the after show, totaling over an hour of unfiltered, unadulterated fun. Seriously guys, this was a really great appearance. 

As if that wasn't enough, we threw an interview with Scott Askham in the middle. Scott is one half of this weekend's ACB main event vs. bitter rival Luke Barnatt. Should be a great fight so don't miss it! 

I'm particularly proud of my topical outro song so please stick around to listen.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_125.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:33am EDT

This was a fun return back to America. My dad and I took a little trip to Fighting Arts Academy in West Haven, CT to catch up with the newly un-retired Nick Newell and one of the most accomplished members of his fight team, Justin Sumter. Justin fights for CES in October and Nick is planning a 2018 return to action. Make sure you catch them both.

I had a lot of fun doing this episode. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Brought to you by Paul's Pizza in Vernon.

Direct download: Episode_124.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:09pm EDT

I'm currently uploading this from an AirBnB in Valencia, about halfway through my Spanish expedition. We've tackled Madrid y Avila and Ibiza is awaiting our arrival. But if you think that's going to stop me from uploading a podcast this week, you are sadly mistaken.

First, a little Outside The Bubble w/Monica to discuss Mighty Mouse, Matt Hughes and more. Then, I'm joined by my friend Ben, and later Nico, Guillermo and Alyssa to discuss La Tomatina, Real Madrid vs. Valencia, and the differences between Spanish and American culture.

Really cool episode, check it out!!

Direct download: Episode_123.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 6:27am EDT

We took the podcast setup on a little road trip to Providence. Well... part of the podcast setup anyway. Your faithful host forgot to bring the cables that connected the microphones to the recorder, so we were forced to record on my iPhone.

*Sorry for the lesser audio quality*

The conversation was great though!! Perfect PartyCast, bouncing from topic to topic with two of my best friends and top bantamweight prospect Dinis Paiva - better known as "Sweetbread" to fans. We talked a little McGregor Mayweather but the rest was all over the place in the best possible way.

Enjoy!! 

Direct download: Episode_122.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 7:02pm EDT

We're coming back strong after a little break and you won't be disappointed in the results.

First, I take a trip down to Jimmie Rivera's gym in NYC to discuss everything from UFC Long Island to a possible title shot in the near-future. It was a really cool space, you guys should check it out!

Then, my friend Matteo Urella returns for a conversation about all things MMA and podcasting. He's been one of my biggest creative influences for years and the first guest to ever tackle the long-form conversational style on this show. For those unfamiliar, you will love him. Everyone else already knows what's up.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_121.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:38am EDT

This was not a good episode... It was a GREAT episode. Two of our favorite and most frequent guests join me for truly amazing conversations. And I don't say that lightly.

First, Cortney Casey joined me to talk about the whole Texas Athletic Commision fiasco. We also got deep into the importance of exciting fights and the effects of a concussion, recap the events of UFC 214, and much more. With a hot dog and slice of pizza in tow, Cortney delivered an awesome podcast appearance from the parking lot of a Costco.

Then, my absolute favorite interview with Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson. His podcast appearances are well into the double digits now and none come close to the depth of this one. Nearly an hour of exploring the mentality of a truly elite mixed martial artist. Seriously guys, this one is a MUST LISTEN.

Finally, shout out to Kevin (Coast To Coast) for giving me three hours of his time, only to have the recording malfunction after the fact. It was a great appearance. Next one will be better.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_120.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:44am EDT

The always inspirational Justin Wren returned to the podcast to talk Fight for the Forgotten and the new Dig Deeper campaign. For the month of July, if you donate $75 dollars, you will receive a limited edition Dig Deeper t-shirt, though any and all donations are welcome. Head over to water4.org/digdeeper for more details.

Then, I had the rare opportunity to meet up with Jimmie Rivera in the lobby of his hotel and interview him on the morning of his fight with Thomas Almeida. Extremely grateful for the time and a big congratulations to Jimmie on his impressive victory.

R.I.P. to Chester Bennington. Hybrid Theory was the first CD I ever owned and serves as a milestone on my journey as a music fan. This one really hit me on a personal level.

Enjoy the show!!

Direct download: Episode_119.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:02pm EDT

This week, Andre Soukhamthath talks twitter beef with Charlamagne Tha God, catching bad headlines, and his upcoming fight with Alejandro Perez in Mexico City.

Then, 2-0 prospect Fabian Edwards makes his podcast debut to discuss his fighting future. Finally, old friend of the show Andreas Georgiou returns to share his experience at the London stop of the Mayweather vs. McGregor press tour. Plus a whole bunch more.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_118.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 12:24am EDT

Steve Rizner - my dad - joins in on this week's intro to preview Matt Bessette's debut for Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender series, followed by a brief recap by yours truly in the After Show.

Then, James Lynch calls into the show to discuss the most recent drama between Ariel Helwani and the UFC and recap his experience at international fight week in Vegas. Always a great conversation when James is on.

Enjoy the show!!

Direct download: Episode_117.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:41am EDT

Great episode this week!! Matt Bessette came by the studio just one week prior to his fight for Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender series. We got into Mayweather vs. McGregor, the power of obsession, and much more. Kevin (Coast To Coast) and Monica (Outside The Bubble) were also in-studio, helping to round out our first ever PartyCast.

Need more of these. I know you'll enjoy. 

Direct download: Episode_116.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 12:50am EDT

Jeff Haddad joins me in studio to talk podcasting, Matt Bessette, and much much more. One of my favorite podcasts I've ever done, I know you'll enjoy this one. Give it a listen!!

Direct download: Episode_115.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 9:52pm EDT

Two great conversations with a pair of podcast favorites.

First, Bryan Lacey drops by to discuss his brand new boxing/MMA crossover show with fellow comedian Christian O'Connell, called "Ultimate Couch Fans". Bryan's always a ton of fun to talk to and lots of laughs were had along the way.

Then, Tony Martin joins us ahead of his June 24th fight against rival Johnny Case. These two are not the biggest fan of one another, and that could mean fireworks on Saturday night. We also split off into some discussion about fighter pay the possibility of a fighter's union.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_114.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:58pm EDT

Well it looks like Matt Bessette is finally getting his opportunity to compete in front of Dana White. Long overdue and a bit confusing, I break down the full situation in the intro.

Then, we take another trip into the magical world of DSM land. David Saint Martin is and always will be a Mount Rushmore podcast guests and this week's stories live up to the hype. He's got stories about fighting mobbed up Russians in coffee shops to getting busted by the police for stealing your own car.

Oh and we dove into McGregor vs. Mayweather and the drama between Mighty Mouse and the UFC, as well. 

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_113.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 9:09am EDT

Special Saturday edition for you guys, but it was definitely worth the wait!! OTB, TV Talk, and an exclusive interview with Jack Shore.

Nate sits in on an Outside The Bubble w/Monica. We get into Gus's proposal and a a subway hoola hoop dance off. Then, Monica gives her super official prediction for Aldo vs. Holloway.

Jack Shore comes by the show to discuss his fighting future and a number of other story lines from the UFC and more. Solid interview, we'll happily have him back in the future.

Finally, Nate joins me for some TV Talk on the eve of The Leftovers series finale. We bounce around, as always, but it was a fun conversation all around.

Enjoy!! 

Direct download: Episode_112.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 1:12pm EDT

Welcome back to another episode of your favorite MMA podcast. RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE!! This week, we have the return of Wonderboy and the debut of Lewis Long.

Wonderboy is impatiently recovering from knee surgery while examining the welterweight division from a outside perspective. We got into a bunch of different topics and caught up on all the interesting goings-on from around the UFC.

Lewis "The Foot" Long is - as you can probably tell from the nickname - an amusing individual. He's also a streaking welterweight and natural finisher who is looking to transfer from Cage Warriors to the UFC. We welcomed him to the show for the first time to discuss that and more.

In this week's after show, I lay out my theory for the end of The Leftovers (only two episodes left!!). Don't worry, I give plenty of warning before I start into it, so there's really no chance of accidental spoilers.

Enjoy!!

** Apologies for the poor sound quality throughout this episode. I need to figure out what's up with my recorder lately. Nothing too bad, it's all audible.

Direct download: Episode_111.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:04am EDT

Solid episode with some of our favorite recurring guests. Big things on the horizon for all.

Cortney Casey picked up a big win at UFC 211 and was nice enough to return to the show just days after the victory. We dove into her relationship with MMA media and got her take on Joanna's most recent defense. Is this her first appearance since UFC 211?! I don't know, I didn't check. But she's a podcast favorite and this was another solid appearance.

Jimmie Rivera just lined up his next big fight. Following his decisive win over Urijah Faber (and nineteen other fighters before him), Rivera has drawn fellow top-prospect Thomas Almeida for a July 22nd date in Long Island, NY. Better yet, it's on "Big FOX" and that means more exposure for one of the best bantamweights on the planet.

My friend Nate returned to the show to discuss some of the latest TV talk. The focus is The Leftovers, but we touch on Fargo, Seinfeld and much, much more.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_110.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:43am EDT

This week's episode starts with the return of Robbie Fox (or the debut of Octagon Bob). Jason Knight comes by the show ahead of his UFC 211 fight with Chas Skelly and Jose "Shorty" Torres drops in to discuss self-promotion and waiting for a UFC call-up.

Plus, a little bonus Outside The Bubble where Monica gives her picks for this weekend's title fights.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_109.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:53pm EDT

Now that I've upgraded my setup, I've really wanted to take the podcast on the road for some in-person interviews. Well this week's show was the first crack at it.

Matt Bessette and Jeff Haddad are two of my best friends in this industry. Staples of the Connecticut MMA scene, they opened up their own gym, called "Ascension Athletics," and have been steadily building up their clientele and reputation ever since. On January 1st, they moved to a brand new location and it was here that we recorded the podcast you're about to listen to.

This was an extremely eclectic conversation ranging from lack of women in the STEM fields to the viewing of horrific videos and what they can teach us about humanity and life. Of course, there was some MMA talk as well, but this one felt a lot more like a Rogan podcast and I couldn't be happier about that.

*Note: Matt's original opponent for CES 44 (Jeremy Spoon) pulled out of the fight just hours before we recorded this podcast. As a result, I avoided the topic of CES 44 all together. He has now found a replacement opponent in Rey Trujillo, so all is well. But in case you were wondering, that's why we didn't talk about his fight.

Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/?ref=br_rs

Direct download: Episode_108.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 7:55am EDT

A couple of podcast favorites join us for a fantastic new episode. Stick around until the end for a very special announcement about next week's episode.

First up: Cortney Casey. Set to fight in the Fight Pass headliner slot at UFC 211, Cortney caught up with us to discuss a variety of topics around the world of MMA. She's always a great guest, and this time was no different.

Then, my friend Kevin joins me for a brand new Coast To Coast. We hit on some news and notes from around the world of sports, talked a little MMA, and plenty of inside conversations that may or may not translate with the average listener. But hey, thanks for listening anyway.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_107.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 3:08pm EDT

Super dense content episode with a pair of great guests. This one has something for the MMA fan and the TV enthusiast alike. I am both.

First, Shaun Al-Shatti talks all things MMA - UFC on FOX, upcoming cards, MMA media and headlines galore. Fun and informative. Hooray!!

Then, Nate helps me break down the Season 3 Premier of TV's bets drama, The Leftovers. If you haven't caught up... you may want to skip this interview. Also... catch up. Like now...

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_106.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 12:03am EDT

Nick Rizner breaks down the top three fights for UFC on FOX 24, providing some background and giving predictions for the following fights:

Demetrious Johnson (c) vs. Wilson Reis
Rose Namajunas vs. Michelle Waterson
Jacare Souza vs. Robert Whittaker

Get all your event coverage over at http://www.mmamad.com/ and follow us on twitter @mmamadofficial & @nickriznermma.

Enjoy the fights!!

Direct download: NicksPicksFinal.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 9:05am EDT

Short episode this week but a good one nonetheless!!

Monica returns with another fantastic OTB. We get into some Danish & O'Neill and George Dillman. We discuss DC towel gate, as well as a preview of this weekend's UFC on FOX. Finally, Monica gives her official pick for Rose Namajunas vs. Michelle Waterson and pitches a Rickie Fowler podcast appearance. Lots of fun!

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_105.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 9:14pm EDT

Great pair of interviews for you this week. Two of our favorites return to the show for some great, albeit scattered conversation on a variety of topics.

David Saint Martin is disgruntled as ever and we love him for it. This interview has it all: rants about pro wrestling and Colorado hipsters, a wild story about a Thai gangster, absolutely no MMA. It's a must-listen for sure.

Then, Luis Felix comes on to reflect on his dominant win at CES 42 as well as some of the bigger story lines from the UFC. We also touch on his work with autism and the story of Dorian Murray. A few laughs, a few emotional parts, this was a good one.

In the After Show, Nick gives his take on the retirement of Tony Romo and gets into some TV talk, including his early review of "13 Reasons Why" on Netflix.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_104.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:28pm EDT

This was a good one.

James Lynch is an MMA journalist for Sportsnet, MMA Oddsbreaker and FloCombat. He hosts the Parting Shot Podcast and holds the (unofficial) record for most interviews ever conducted in a single week. I did very little research to verify that record, but he does a lot of interviews, so I'm running with it. He's also one of my favorite people in this business. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a fantastic conversation that ranges from Stanley Cup Playoffs and click-bait media to Big Little Lies and The Sopranos.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_103.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:19pm EDT

Solid pair of interviews featuring some talk about the GGG fight and UFC 210.

Matteo Urella shares an epic story of his relationship with writing and GGG. Everything came full circle this weekend at Madison Square Garden and it was as poetic as you'd expect from one of the best writers in combat sports.

At long last, Desmond Green is finally making his UFC debut. And the Rochester native is doing it just one hour from his hometown in Buffalo, NY. UFC 210 is set for April 8th and Desmond vs. Josh Everette could very well steal the show.

In this week's after show, we get into March Madness, the return of Dave Chappelle, and the official re-launch of our Instagram (@mmamadofficial) and our Snapchat (mma_mad).

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_102.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:00pm EDT

UFC London is coming your way this weekend and we've got a full breakdown of the action.

First, we sat down with Andreas Georgiou of MMA Plus. He's an old friend of the show and one of the foremost experts on UK MMA. We spoke about his upcoming video project, the stand out fights at UFC London and more.

Then, one half of the main event, #4 ranked Jimi Manuwa makes his podcast debut. He's set to take on Corey Anderson this weekend, with hopes of moving one step closer to a shot at the light heavyweight championship.

Finally, my friend Nate Zielinski joins us for a little podcasting 101. After launching his own podcast for Ticket Liquidator, he's looking for advice on how to best move forward and improve the quality of his show. I'm certainly no expert, but I did my best to help out.

Plus we've even got a little Monica action on the transition. This was a fun one!!

Enjoy.

Direct download: Episode_101.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 5:26pm EDT

Wow. 100 episodes. Over 140 hours of content over the past three years. This thing has come a long way since its humble beginnings and the guests in this episode are the people to thank.

(00:04:46) Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson made his podcast debut back in episode 28. This appearance was his tenth, officially making him the first to hit double digits. If there was an MMA Mad MVP, it'd be hard to argue against Wonderboy. The guy is a legend.

(00:18:33) If it wasn't for David St. Martin's inclusion of the MMA Mad Podcast on the MMA Fighting Morning Report, we may not be doing this right now. That was the single biggest boost we received both in traffic and notoriety. Who would've thought that DSM would make for such a great guest as well. The lovable grouch.

(00:51:47) Cortney Casey was the first female fighter we ever had on the podcast, but she's become way more than a crucial milestone. One of the most entertaining and frequently requested guest in our arsenal, Cortney is always honest and always entertaining, as a result. Truly one of the best guests we have.

(01:05:02) Barstool Sports finally has an designated MMA contributor and the guy is brilliant. Insightful blogs, hilarious videos, a well-rounded set of technical production skills, Robbie Fox is going to be a star at Barstool and Barstool has long been my biggest inspiration to chase my dreams. Thrilled to have him as a part of this episode.

(01:22:10) Nick Newell is one of my favorite people on the planet. There's the amazing career and the inspirational backstory, sure. But above all, he's one of the most kind and genuine people you'll ever come across in this business. He was my first ever one-on-one interview, as well. He'll always have a place in the history of this show.

(01:34:01) Matt Bessette and Jeff Haddad are my best friends in MMA. Far beyond a simple interviewer - interviewee relationship, these guys are always a ton of fun to be around. Jeff is one of the most driven and motivational people I know and Matt is the embodiment of martial arts culture. Respect, honor and discipline. GET MATT TO THE UFC!!! Shout out to Ashley and Michelle.

(1:47:32) Chuck Mindenhall is, for my money, the best writer in sports media. His ability to captivate with his storytelling while pouring his own personality and voice into his work is unparalleled. I've looked up to him on so many different levels, so to have him as a contact and guide through this crazy buiness has been an honor. Truly.

(02:03:25) Outside The Bubble was the first recurring segment we ever featured on this podcast and with it, a star was born. In all seriousness, Monica has meant a great deal to this show both on the mic and behind the scenes. She's been unbelievably supportive through an endless stream of skype conversations and marathon editing sessions. And she's electric content every time you put a mic in her hand. Can't thank her enough.

And I can't thank all of you enough either. This show has been one of the greatest accomplishments of my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Many more to come.

- Nick

Direct download: Episode_100.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:08pm EDT

Only one show left before our celebratory 100th episode, but we're not taking any weeks off! We're coming in hot with three great interviews that you're sure to enjoy.

First, comedian, ACB commentator, and one half of the One Punch Podcast alongside Brad Pickett, Bryan Lacey returns to the show. We talk podcasting, some UFC 209 and plenty more. Good interview!

Then, Brendan Loughnane joins us to disucss his upcoming fight at ACB: Super Sonic in Manchester. One of the most slept on prospects outside the UFC, keep your eye on Loughnane. Great interview. Great fighter. This kid is a star.

Finally, Luke Barnatt makes his podcast debut before headlining ACB: Super Sonic. You may know him from his exciting fights inside the Octagon, his tremendous run on The Ultimate Fighter, or his recent four fight finish streak. Luke is a great analyst as well as a great fighter. Honored to have him on.

Again, episode 100 is coming next week! Mark your calendars! It's gonna be a good one...

Direct download: Episode_99.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 7:50pm EDT

This week, we were joined by recurring guests Jimmie Rivera and Andre Soukhamthath. Plus, top prospect Jack McGann makes his podcast debut.

Since we last spoke, Jimmie Rivera has climbed to #5 on the UFC Bantamweight rankings, thanks to his impressive win over top contender Urijah Faber. Now he's looking for his next opponent, with a focus on earning his shot at that 135 pound title.

Andre Soukhamthath is preparing for another defense of his CES Bantamweight Championship, all while chasing his goal of a UFC call-up. One of our favorite guests, Andre never shies away from bold opinions. This was a good one.

Top prospect Jack McGann discusses growing up in the Wolfslair gym, fighting in Russia, and his ultimate plans for UFC glory.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_98.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 6:34pm EDT

I traveled to LA for a special edition of Coast To Coast w/my friend Kevin.

Alright so maybe that's not why I traveled to LA... but we recorded a live podcast anyway. We got into everything from the Super Bowl to UFC 208 and everything in between. I recap my trip to LA featuring a trip to Disney Land, my first experience at the world famous Comedy Store, and much much more.

Plus, we've got a quick After Show for you guys as well. A little talk about McGregor vs. Mayweather and the return of GSP.

Enjoy!!

Direct download: Episode_97.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 8:35pm EDT

This week, a conversation with Matt Bessette, a remastered/rereleased interview with Justin Wren, and a little Monica action on the introduction.

I sat down with Matt Bessette to discuss everything from the Super Bowl to UFC 208 and beyond. This was a fun one with one of my favorite people. GET MATT TO THE UFC!! But seriously... Do it...

Finally, I remastered my April 2016 interview with Justin Wren. I barely even talk in this one, but the content was so good that it had to be rereleased. Justin Wren's work with Fight for the Forgotten needs way more attention. Listen, research, and donate. This is a tremendously worthy cause.

Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/?fref=ts

Direct download: Episode_96.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 1:54am EDT

So this was a long one. But it was also pretty light on the MMA, so the variety should hold your interest.

Danish & O'Neill talk MMA headlines, the launch of their brand new podcast "The Pork Report," and a whole bunch of other stuff. Always a good conversation. Always funny. You'll enjoy this one.

Monica returns for a brand new edition of Outside The Bubble. This time, we get into the Wonderboy Woodley rematch set for UFC 209. We also talk about the Bachelor, Barstool Sports, and a little bit of football.

Kevin calls in (w/a little cameo from his brother) to break down and preview the big game. He's a Falcons fan. Monica is a Pats fan. The idea was to have them on at the same time but the timing didn't work out. Instead, this turned into a psuedo Coast To Coast, the full version of which will be coming your way in a couple weeks.

Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/?fref=ts

Direct download: Episode_95.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 11:25am EDT

It's been a little while since we did a multi-guest episode like this, but we're coming out of the gate with a powerful lineup.

Stephen Thompson makes his highly anticipated return to the show and there was plenty to get into. Wonderboy responds to the recent disparaging comments by Tyron Woodley, reveals his answer to the question "Apocalypse or Thanos," and discusses some of the fights from Bellator 170 and UFC on FOX 23.

Ian McCall joins us to talk podcasting, the green rush in California and his food poisoning in Ireland. He also looks ahead to his UFC 208 fight against Neil Seery in Brooklyn, NY.

Adam Milstead returns to the show ahead of his February 4th clash in Houston. He talks about the difference in training for your second Octagon appearances vs. your UFC debut. We also got into fighter pay and the crazy range of body types that make up the heavyweight division.

Short After Show this week. I give some more thoughts on Woodley's comments about racial prejudice in the world of MMA. I also throw a couple TV show recommendations out there. 

Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/?fref=ts

Direct download: Episode_94.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 2:11pm EDT

After nearly a decade of regularly reading Barstool Sports and religiously following MMA, my two worlds are finally coming together.

Robbie Fox aka Intern Robbie is an 18 year old MMA writer for barstoolsports.com. Barstool has undergone a number of changes over the past year, including a big move to a centralized office in New York City. With this came an influx of new hires and most notably - at least as it relates to this podcast - was the hire of the site's first dedicated MMA contributor. Long overdue.

I sat down with Robbie for an in-depth conversation about his writing background, how he came to be at Barstool Sports, and his future in the medium. Oh, and we got into some MMA storylines as well.

Plus, in the After Show, I reflect on the Cowboy's season, give you guys a movie and TV show recommendation, and rant about how much I hate Ford vehicles right now.

Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/?fref=ts

Direct download: Episode_93.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 10:20am EDT

This week, we sat down for a nice chat with UFC Strawweight Cortney Casey.

Cortney Casey has been one of our favorite recurring guests since her first appearance on the show. She's never one to shy away from candidly speaking her mind or giving her take on a news story, and the result is usually a very entertaining podcast. This week was no exception, as we spoke for about an hour, discussing headlines and news stories both within MMA and beyond.

Plus, in this week's After Show, I break down the Cowboys' upcoming playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, talk about some recent fight announcements, give you guys a brand new podcast recommendation, and wrap things up with a little TV Talk, specifically Always Sunny In Philadelphia, Taboo and Man Seeking Woman.

Thanks for listening!! Follow us by checking out the social media links below. Enjoy!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOfficial/

Direct download: Episode_92.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 7:44pm EDT

It's a new year and we're back with a brand new episode of The MMA Mad Podcast. Kicking things off with a brief State of the Union, I discuss some of my podcast plans for 2017.

Then, friend of the show Matteo Urella joins me to reflect on UFC 207 and discuss my 2016 End of the Year awards. Great conversation with a great guy.

Finally, Monica joins me to discuss the first episode of The Bachelor. Think of it as a reverse Outside The Bubble. This was just a preview of sorts, but in the future this should be a fun recap segment in which I'm the one answering questions for a change.

Thanks for listening and here's to a fantastic year of shows!!

Website: http://www.mmamad.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMAMadOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NickRiznerMMA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MMAMadOffici...

Direct download: Episode_91.mp3
Category:Sports -- posted at: 6:12pm EDT

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