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The backbreakers and Bites Podcast
EPISODE Seven – Grant And Elle Dawson
In this Episode Of The Podcast:
Contents
Show Notes and Highlights
About the Guest
About the Restaurant
Episode Extras
Featured Links
Show Notes and Highlights
Grant on Football and Transition to MMA (3:16)
Grant shared his journey from football to MMA, realizing football wasn’t for him after struggling in high school. He transitioned to MMA, starting with backyard fights before training at a small gym. Eventually, he moved to Missouri to train under James Krause, enduring tough conditions like sleeping under a pool table.
Elle’s Roots (5:39)
Elle shared her journey into fitness and MMA, starting with her attendance at the Mr. Olympia as a fan. She trained at a boxing gym in Las Vegas before discovering a passion for jiu-jitsu. After three months of training, Elle quickly transitioned into competing in amateur fights.
How Grant and Elle Met (11:07)
The couple discussed their long-distance relationship, which involved a two and a half hour drive for regular visits. They met at an Invicta event when Elle attended to support a friend, and Grant was there with his then-girlfriend. Their connection grew through social media, with Grant reaching out to Elle about her next fight.
Johnny Eblen’s Hospitality and Move to American Top Team (28:06)
The discussion highlights the exclusivity of gyms that focus on professional fighters to enhance skill development. Johnny Eblen’s visit to Krause’s while visiting his parents was significant for Grant, encouraging him to consider better training environments. Grant and Elle stayed at Johnny Eblen’s house when they moved to Florida, helping them transition to American Top Team (ATT). ATT is praised for its welcoming, high-level training environment despite some negative perceptions. The conversation also addresses the challenges fighters face, including moving gyms and balancing personal life with training.
Elle on Setbacks and Return to Competition (44:30)
Elle is aiming to return to competition after knee surgery in March, with hopes of securing a fight by the end of the year. After nearly a year without fighting, she is eager to compete again. The conversation emphasizes her dedication to the sport and her readiness to get back in the cage.
Grant on Adapting Striking to His Wrestling (47:45)
Grant emphasized the importance of focusing on wrestling setups to improve his fighting strategy, rather than just developing striking skills. He believes his chances of winning increase when he can get on his opponent’s back. Grant discussed how many fighters waste time on skills that don’t align with their strengths. He now develops his striking techniques to complement his wrestling, rather than focusing solely on becoming a better striker.
About Grant Dawson
Grant Dawson, born on February 20, 1994, in Stromsburg, Nebraska, fights in the UFC’s lightweight division. He started in football but shifted to MMA after discovering his passion for combat sports. Dawson began with backyard fights before formally training. He moved to Missouri to train under James Krause, facing tough living conditions.
Dawson has a record of 23 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, with 11 UFC victories. He is known for his strong grappling and wrestling-based style. Dawson excels at controlling opponents on the ground and searching for submissions. He has finished 11 of his wins with rear-naked chokes.
His fighting style is built around pressure, ground control, and submissions. Dawson’s striking continues to improve, but he relies on grappling. He secured a significant win over Diego Ferreira at UFC 311. Despite setbacks, Dawson remains a rising star in the lightweight division. His grappling expertise and work ethic make him a dangerous competitor.
About Elle Dawson
Elle Dawson, formerly Elle Wagman, is a professional MMA fighter in the strawweight division. She was born on May 24, 1994, in Springfield, Missouri. Elle started with boxing before transitioning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She earned her blue belt in BJJ before moving to MMA.
Her professional MMA debut occurred on October 9, 2020, at Fighting Alliance Championship 10. She won by unanimous decision. Elle followed up with four consecutive victories, all by submission, demonstrating her grappling skills. Her first loss came on October 7, 2022, against Celine Haga.
Elle’s fighting style revolves around Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with four of her five wins coming via submission. She trains at American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Florida. Elle is married to UFC lightweight Grant Dawson. The couple shares a deep passion for MMA and supports each other’s careers.
About La Picana Grill
La Picaña Grill in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a well-regarded destination for authentic Venezuelan cuisine. Known for its “Carne Asada,” the restaurant serves a variety of traditional Venezuelan dishes. The menu includes arepas, empanadas, and various grilled meats, offering rich and flavorful meals. The “Picaña” (grilled steak) is a standout dish, often praised for its tenderness and seasoning.
Patrons enjoy a wide selection of sides such as fried plantains, rice, and black beans, common in Venezuelan cooking. The grill also serves delicious chicken, pork, and fish options. For dessert, customers can indulge in Venezuelan treats like tres leches cake or churros.
The restaurant is celebrated for its ability to bring authentic Venezuelan flavors to the community. Many visitors also appreciate the ability to enjoy outdoor dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Overall, La Picaña Grill is known for its generous portions and high-quality meals, making it a go-to spot for Venezuelan cuisine in the area.