INTERVIEW SERIES: Chad Wesley Smith

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THROWBACK: Today we throwback to an interview I conducted back at the end of August with the host of The Jugg Life podcast, Chad Wesley Smith.

We talk a little bit about his powerlifting background and then spend a great deal of the podcast discussing how the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu found its way into his life.

But one of my favorite parts about this podcast was the fact that shortly after we recorded this, we both made our way to Master’s Worlds, where Chad earned himself fancy new gold medal.

Fun times here at the International Novice Open in Las Vegas. Finished 3-0 for the championship in the Ultra Heavy White Belt division. Two wins by 🔑lock and the third by Kimura. Thanks to @brentlittellbjj @philipefurao and all my great teammates at @graciebarra_hq #JuggLife #GracieBarra @flograppling @verbaltapcast @jiujitsutimes @graciebarra @gbwear

7,157 Likes, 193 Comments - Chad Wesley Smith (@chadwesleysmith) on Instagram: "Fun times here at the International Novice Open in Las Vegas. Finished 3-0 for the championship in..."

The fact is: Chad was dominant out there. Here’s a few highlights from that weekend.

Final today at the International Novice Open. Got nervous when I was caught underneath from the missed single but @brentlittellbjj has helped me feel much more comfortable in bad situations. Finish via Kimura (see I don't just do key locks) at :59 for the 🥇 #JuggLife @graciebarra_hq @philipefurao @flograppling @verbaltapcast @jiujitsutimes @graciebarra #GracieBarra

5,338 Likes, 166 Comments - Chad Wesley Smith (@chadwesleysmith) on Instagram: "Final today at the International Novice Open. Got nervous when I was caught underneath from the..."

And Chad also got tested, early on, learning how to conserve his energy and remain calm when in danger, finding the precise moment to go for the kill.

Here was my first match of the day. Toughest and longest match. He tried to triangle me, which as any of my training partners besides @limb_eater45 can attest, is a bold strategy, let's see how it works out for him. . Got up 7-0 here then finished via key lock. #JuggLife @graciebarra_hq @brentlittellbjj @philipefurao @graciebarra @flograppling @verbaltapcast @jiujitsutimes #GracieBarra #JiuJitsu

2,869 Likes, 99 Comments - Chad Wesley Smith (@chadwesleysmith) on Instagram: "Here was my first match of the day. Toughest and longest match. He tried to triangle me, which as..."

I’m truly glad that our paths crossed that weekend. I got a quick moment to express how proud I was of his amazing Master’s Worlds run and tell him exactly how great it is to have a new ambassador for the sport who helps bring that message to an even wider audience through his podcast and hosting ventures.

I honestly wouldn’t be too surprised if you see Chad back on the show sometime real soon.

Until then, cheers to our new pal.

Follow us EVERYWHERE fam!

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