Today, I sit down with Tito Ortiz — and this is a conversation I’ve wanted to have for a long time.
Six-time UFC defending champion.
UFC Hall of Famer.
One of the most polarizing and influential fighters in MMA history.
As a lifelong MMA fan who grew up hosting UFC watch parties, from UFC 1 all the way through the iconic Tito Ortiz vs Chuck Liddell era, sitting across from Tito was an honor. But this podcast isn’t about hype, highlight reels, or trash talk.
It’s about what happens when the cameras turn off.
In this episode, we go far beyond the Octagon. We talk about the preparation, the pressure, and the mindset required to compete at the highest level. We unpack the personal battles no one sees, the toll of unhealthy relationships, the weight of public scrutiny, and what it really feels like to win — and to lose — on the biggest stage in the world.
Tito opens up about fatherhood, raising competitive kids, and guiding his children through wrestling with the lessons he learned the hard way. We talk candidly about his relationship with Jenna Jameson, custody battles, and navigating life while being judged by the public eye.
We also dive into behind-the-scenes UFC stories, relationships with other fighters, the emotional moment of having his hand raised after fighting Ken Shamrock, how The Ultimate Fighter helped save the UFC, and how he looks back on his legacy and life today.
This is a real conversation.
No filters.
No scripts.
No surface-level answers.
Just two people talking about life, discipline, pain, growth, and what it takes to keep moving forward when the world is watching.
If you’re a fan of UFC, MMA, elite performance, mindset, or honest conversations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
🎧 Listen on Spotify
🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts
📺 Watch on YouTube
https://youtube.com/@joepavichjr
