Episode 45 - Justin Gaethje Talks Fame, Family, and Fighting – Troll Co.

In Episode 45 of the Ol' Boy Podcast, host Chad Ward takes listeners on an intriguing journey through the life and career of Justin Gaethje. This episode not only highlights Gaethje's renowned fighting career but also delves into his personal life, business ventures, and commitment to his community. Here’s a comprehensive look at the many facets of Justin Gaethje, the man who’s equally at home in the octagon, on the golf course, or fostering hope in his community.

The Negotiation Game: Choosing UFC Over Bellator

During the podcast, Gaethje recounted his past negotiations between the UFC and Bellator promotions. Despite tempting offers from both sides, Gaethje ultimately chose the UFC. His decision was influenced not just by fighter pay but also by the far-reaching opportunities the UFC platform provides, including significant social media endorsements. The UFC’s reach has indeed expanded his public recognition, bringing fame that transcends the sport and opening countless doors.

Gratitude and Groundedness: Fame Through Humility

Despite his skyrocketing career, Gaethje remains incredibly humble. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for the fame and opportunities that have come his way due to the UFC. However, he emphasized the importance of staying true to himself, a sentiment echoed by his close friends, Archie and Trevor. Gaethje’s integrity and loyalty shine through in his personal stories, such as keeping a promise to support his friend Archie by attending a fight in Paris right after his own match.

Fighting with Intensity and Calm: Lessons from the Octagon

One of the central themes of Gaethje’s discussion with Ward was learning from his past fights, particularly his memorable bout against Tony Ferguson. Gaethje highlighted the balance between intensity and calmness required in the ring. He spoke candidly about how the presence or absence of a crowd can influence performance, and how he has learned to maintain composure while unleashing his inner fury. This balance, he believes, is crucial for optimal performance and long-term success in his fighting career.

Golfing Adventures: Mixing Business with Pleasure

Outside the octagon, Gaethje has found another arena where his competitive spirit thrives – the golf course. He’s active in various golf leagues, including the "Celebrity Sweat" setup, where he rubs shoulders with the likes of John Smoltz and Ken Griffey Jr. Gaethje’s passion for golf isn’t just for fun; it's a part of his strategy to diversify his career and invest in long-term ventures. His charity golf tournament, benefiting St. Jude’s Hospital this year, exemplifies his commitment to giving back to the community.

Business Ventures: Eyes on the Future

Diversifying income sources is a priority for Gaethje, who understands the transient nature of an MMA career. Among his pursuits is the purchase of Beaver Park Sports shop in Winter Park, Colorado, in partnership. He also invested in a custom house in Arizona, which has not yet been appraised but holds potential due to the area’s growth. For Gaethje, creating passive income streams is crucial, ensuring financial stability beyond the temporary revenue from Instagram endorsements.

Family and Community: Core Values

Family is at the heart of Gaethje’s life. He recounted the sacrifices his parents made, from supporting his wrestling tournaments to instilling discipline and resilience. Their unwavering support is a cornerstone of his success and character. Gaethje’s commitment to family extends beyond his immediate kin; he views his fighting career as a platform to inspire others globally, promoting the values of hard work and dedication.

Reflecting on His Path: From Amateur to Pro

Gaethje’s journey from a collegiate wrestler to a professional fighter wasn’t without its pitfalls. He fought amateur bouts during college, juggling various jobs to sustain himself. Meeting coach Trevor Wittman was a turning point, offering him the professional guidance he needed. Signing with the World Series of Fighting, facilitated by his manager Ali Abdelaziz, marked the start of Gaethje’s ascent in the MMA world. His candid reflections on early financial struggles and the support from his mother add a personal touch to his narrative.

The Essence of Justin Gaethje

Episode 45 of the Ol' Boy Podcast paints a vivid picture of Justin Gaethje as more than just a fierce competitor in the octagon. He’s a humble, loyal individual committed to his family, friends, and community. Whether it’s fighting, golf, or business, Gaethje’s relentless spirit and dedication continue to drive him forward. His story is not just about victories in the ring but about the value of integrity, hard work, and staying true to oneself.

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"If you don't believe it's danger, your body doesn't give you what it needs to. It doesn't put the glycogen in your liver, it doesn't produce the adrenaline. And if that doesn't happen, then now it's a whole different environment." -Justin Gaethje

3 Fun Facts About Justin

1. Gaethje shared a humorous story about betting his friend $1,000 to apply wasabi, which led to comedic aftermath and skepticism about the authenticity of the act despite video evidence.

2. Gaethje drove a UTV aggressively, similar to his fighting style, resulting in $38,000 worth of damage shortly after purchasing it, showcasing his need for a more stable personal life.

3. Since April 13th, Gaethje has played golf almost daily, resulting in golfer's elbow, and he aims to win more fights to keep participating in celebrity golf tournaments.