Big Hype Podcast with Jonathan Millard
The Big Hype Podcast, hosted by Jonathan Millard, is a weekly show launched in 2024 that explores the world of combat sports, including boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Each episode features interviews with athletes and figures from these sports, offering listeners insight into their journeys, challenges, and future aspirations. Jonathan Millard, a licensed Master of Ceremonies and former radio presenter, brings his expertise in engaging with athletes and providing in-depth conversations on topics like weight management, career transitions, and overcoming obstacles. Notable guests have included rising stars like Sasha Booker and seasoned professionals discussing their personal and professional growth.
You can listen to episodes on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
Big Hype Podcast with Jonathan Millard
Jason Jenkins: Living Two Lives: Pro MMA Fighter & Rock Drummer
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In this episode of the Big Hype Podcast, host Jonathan Millard sits down with Jason Jenkins—a unique talent balancing two demanding worlds: professional MMA and music.
Jason shares how his journey began with Taekwondo at a local gym and evolved into a pro career with 10 professional fights, including the step up in production and pressure that comes with bigger promotions like Cage Warriors. We also talk about what makes MMA so addictive, why it stands out from other combat sports, and what it’s really like travelling abroad to fight (including experiences in Greece and Cyprus).
On the music side, Jason opens up about playing in a band, the grind of promoting original music, and how injuries have shaped (but not stopped) his next chapter—both inside and outside the cage.
Key takeaways
- From Taekwondo beginnings to professional MMA
- The jump from amateur shows to pro promotions (including Cage Warriors)
- Why “MMA just excites me” (and what makes it different)
- Fighting abroad: travel, preparation, and pressure
- Balancing training camps with a music career
- Injury setbacks—and the mindset to come back stronger
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jason Jenkins
02:16 Transitioning from Amateur to Professional
03:05 Experiences in Cage Warriors
04:36 The Impact of Local Legends in MMA
05:19 Boxing Background and Experiences
06:48 Fighting on Various Platforms
07:57 Preference for MMA Over Other Disciplines
08:47 Understanding MMA for New Viewers
11:23 Fighting Abroad: Experiences in Greece and Cyprus
13:23 Training and Preparing for Fights Abroad
14:41 Balancing Music and Fighting Career
15:12 The Music Scene and Upcoming Projects
17:26 Unique Stage Presence and Performance Style
18:57 Signature Acts and Social Media Presence
19:18 The Evolution of Music and Content Creation
20:44 Journey into Drumming: Influences and Inspirations
22:17 Dream Collaborations: Bands and Future Aspirations
24:15 Overcoming Challenges: Injuries and Future Goals
27:42 Engaging with Fans: Social Media and Community
30:13 Closing Thoughts and Future Events
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