Jason Jenkins: Living Two Lives: Pro MMA Fighter & Rock Drummer

Send us Fan Mail 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 Support the show  Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.