BJJ & MMA Podcast
Breaking the Guard
A no-nonsense Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA talk show with black belts David Avellan and Robert Drysdale — breaking down the fight game, the mental side of competition, and what it really takes to win. New episodes every week.
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Latest episodes
All episodes →BTG 201 - Heart
September 28, 2026 · 32:21
After a long hiatus, I comment on the past UFC Fight Night main event with Raul Rosas vs Raoni Barcelos, a brutal fight which resulted in one of the men leaving on a stretcher. I then talk about my absence from training, my upcoming trips, and the power of a simple diet.
BTG 200 - I'm getting too old for this
July 20, 2026 · 23:05
Two old veterans of the fight game tasted defeat this weekend. One of them walked away from the game, while the other one is still holding out. I'll revisit this topic of the purpose of continuing to compete in sport as an older athlete.
BTG 199 - A Flying Disaster
July 13, 2026 · 20:44
After 5 years waiting for his return from a terrible leg break, Conor does the unthinkable and blows out his knee doing a flying kick. I'll remark on this incident and reflect on the coaching and strategy behind this as well.
BTG 198 - Walking and chewing gum at the same time
July 6, 2026 · 25:23
I'm turning 45 tomorrow, so I reflect back on some important ideas I have come to realize this year. First, the importance of systems in being an effective multi-tasker. Second, measuring everything is not always necessary, and trusting your TRAINED intuition can be more valuable.
Your hosts
David Avellan — creator of the Kimura Trap System and 2009 ADCC bronze medalist — and Robert Drysdale — 2005 IBJJF World Champion, 2007 ADCC Absolute Champion, and co-founder of Zenith BJJ. Two black belts with deep backgrounds as competitors, coaches, and school owners.
More about the show →Want to train with David? Find his instructionals and articles at DavidMMA.com.