Conversations with a Backfist!
Social Gelo with Angelo Podcast
280-The Most Hated Man in Kenpo? Manny Reyes Jr Speaks Out
Manny Reyes Jr. is one of the most controversial figures in the Kenpo community. Some call him a troll, a clown, or even a fraud—but is there more to the story? Manny sat down with me and answered the hard questions about modern Kenpo, his MMA experience, the people he's called out, his past trolling, and the bridges he's burned along the way. I openly disagreed with him on several issues—and unlike other interviews that reportedly never happened, Manny didn't back out. He stayed, answered the questions, and even admitted to some regrets. Love him or hate him, hear what Manny Reyes Jr. has to say and decide for yourself.
279-Did Michael Jai White Really Disrespect Bruce Lee?
Did Michael Jai White really disrespect Bruce Lee? In this episode, we break down Michael Jai White's comments, Bruce Lee's legacy, and the difference between being a great martial artist, a great fighter, and a great coach. Was Bruce Lee one of the most influential martial artists of all time? Absolutely. But does influence automatically mean someone was the greatest fighter? We explore the evidence, the myths, and why this debate continues to divide the martial arts community.
278-What BJJ Gets Right That Other Martial Arts Don't | Rigan Machado
In this episode of Social Gelo, I sit down with BJJ legend Rigan Machado to discuss why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has experienced incredible growth while many other martial arts have struggled to keep pace. We explore the importance of community, leadership, culture, student retention, and what academy owners and instructors from every martial art can learn from BJJ's success. We also discuss the future of martial arts, building strong schools, and the philosophy behind the Mach5 Network. Whether you're a martial artist, instructor, school owner, or simply interested in the evolution of combat sports, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
277-I Don't Think Ninjutsu is Real. Convince Me!
I don't think modern ninjutsu is real. Convince me. After living in Japan for over 13 years and training in multiple martial arts, I've got some serious questions about modern ninjutsu. So instead of ranting, I invited a practitioner to defend it. No cheap shots. No echo chamber. Just an honest conversation. Did they change my mind? Watch and decide for yourself.
276-Does Martial Arts Really Need Another Hall of Fame?
For years, the martial arts world has seen Hall of Fame after Hall of Fame. Some have earned respect. Others have been criticized for expensive induction fees, $1,000 dinner tickets, and awards that many feel have lost their meaning. So, does martial arts really need another Hall of Fame? In this episode of Social Gelo with Angelo, we sit down with the organizers behind the new Kajukenbo Hall of Fame to discuss why they believe this project is different. We talk about preserving Kajukenbo's competitive history, honoring those who helped shape the art through competition, and the challenges of deciding who truly deserves recognition. The conversation also touches on legendary names connected to the project, including Chuck Liddell, Benny "The Jet" Urquidez, Cecil Peoples, and John Hackleman, and why their involvement brings credibility to the Hall of Fame. Is this the Hall of Fame martial arts needs—or just another one? Watch and decide for yourself.
275-Why are people so obsessed with exposing fake black belts?
Why are people so obsessed with exposing "fake black belts"? Is the black belt still meaningful, or are medals and competition results all that matter? After more than 25 years in the martial arts, I've trained in traditional belt systems, non-belt systems, and submission wrestling in Japan—their version of catch wrestling. In this episode, I break down why this debate never seems to go away. I share my own journey, conversations with martial artists from every background, and the psychology behind why exposing "fake black belts" has become such an obsession. Whether you're a white belt, black belt, coach, competitor, or simply a martial arts fan, this episode might change the way you think about rank, experience, and what it really means to earn a black belt.
274-Kudo Isn't as Popular in Japan as You Think
Is Kudo really as popular in Japan as many martial artists think? After living in Japan for over 13 years and running a martial arts gym, my experience has been very different from what I often hear online. In this episode, I share my firsthand observations, a brief history of Kudo, and why perception doesn't always match reality. I'd love to hear your thoughts—especially if you've trained Kudo. Let me know in the comments!
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