Away Days Podcast: The Criminal Connection

Host: Jake Hanrahan
Podcast Series: Away Days Podcast: Reporting from the Underbelly
Release Date: June 9, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Criminal Connection," Jake Hanrahan ventures into the shadowy realm of underground fight clubs nestled in Germany, near the border with Strasbourg. Through his immersive journalism, Hanrahan uncovers the intricate web of criminal activities, organized motorcycle gangs, and the raw brutality that defines no-rules fighting. This episode offers listeners a firsthand account of a world rarely seen, shedding light on the motivations, dangers, and dynamics that sustain such illicit operations.

Journey to Frontier

Arrival in a Run-Down Town

Jake begins his journey driving through a desolate town bordering Strasbourg, contrasting the picturesque green hills and traditional villages with the grim reality of "everything’s grey concrete and dying retail perks." He reflects on the stark difference between this area and the vibrant, hipster atmosphere of Berlin, highlighting the isolation and decay that set the stage for Frontier (05:00).

Setting the Scene

Upon reaching the outskirts, Jake describes the destination as a "tip," emphasizing the area's potential for cross-country smuggling, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities due to its porous border with France. The location is perfect for an underground fight club, far removed from the prying eyes of authorities (08:15).

Meet Lavi: The Architect of Frontier

First Impressions

Jake meets Lavi, the enigmatic leader of Frontier, who sports a prominent "ACAB" (All Cops Are Bastards) tattoo on the back of his head, coupled with a butterfly knife. Lavi's straightforward and no-nonsense demeanor immediately earns Jake's respect (07:10).

Origins of Frontier

Lavi explains that Frontier was born out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional illicit businesses like strip clubs and brothels were shut down. Many of the individuals involved were left unemployed and seeking an outlet, leading to the formation of the fight club as a means to channel their aggression and maintain street respect (15:36).

Inside the Arena: The Heart of Frontier

Description of the Venue

Jake provides a vivid description of the venue—a drab, inconspicuous building resembling a British working man's club or an old function hall. Inside, heavy-duty Harris fencing forms a makeshift ring on a concrete floor, surrounded by permanent booths and a small bar. The atmosphere is electric, filled with individuals from various criminal backgrounds, including motorcycle gangs like the Hell's Angels (07:15).

Security Measures

The entrance is guarded by men in balaclavas wielding baseball bats, ensuring that only those affiliated with Frontier gain access. This rigorous security underscores the volatile and high-stakes nature of the fights (19:26).

The Fights: Reality or Spectacle?

Bash vs. Underdog

The first major fight features Bash, a seasoned no-rules fighter from the UK, against a local contender named Underdog. Jake observes the fight unfold rapidly, with Underdog securing a swift knockout. However, Jake harbors suspicions about the authenticity of the outcome, noting Bash's rapid downfall and Underdog's exaggerated celebration (18:32).

Jake Hanrahan (18:32): "It all feels a bit strange to me, but either way, the crowd is going insane."

Introduction of Female Fighters

A groundbreaking moment occurs as Frontier hosts its first female fights. Agroterra, a skilled and tattooed fighter, faces Hattie, who appears less experienced. Despite Jake's expectations of a brutal showdown, the fight concludes quickly with minimal damage, further fueling his doubts about the legitimacy of the matches.

Hattie (21:10): "Well, those men should shut up."

Observations and Suspicion

Jake notes inconsistencies such as the ease with which certain fighters win and the controlled nature of the outcomes. These observations lead him to question whether some fights are staged to maintain Frontier's reputation and ensure certain fighters remain undefeated (21:42).

The Underlying Criminal Nexus

Connection to Motorcycle Gangs

Jake uncovers that many participants and spectators are members of organized motorcycle gangs, including Hell's Angels, adorned with 1%er tattoos and other gang insignias. This connection highlights the deep-rooted criminal ties that sustain Frontier (10:08).

Economic and Social Drivers

Lavi discusses how economic downturns and social isolation, exacerbated by the pandemic, have driven individuals towards underground fighting as a means of survival and maintaining social status. The fight club serves as both a literal and metaphorical battleground for these marginalized individuals (15:36).

Security and Law Enforcement Concerns

Preparedness for Raids

Despite the tight security, Lavi acknowledges the constant threat of police raids. He emphasizes the need for vigilance and readiness, understanding that law enforcement could descend at any moment. This perpetual state of alertness adds a layer of tension to the operations of Frontier (19:00).

Jake Hanrahan (19:07): "If it's happening, then it happens."

Future Prospects and Teasers

Anticipation of Joey's Involvement

As the night concludes, Jake receives news from Joey, an up-and-coming Welsh fighter from a previous episode, who has been invited to join the elite King of the Streets fight club. This development promises further exploration into the most hardcore and exclusive levels of underground fighting in subsequent episodes (25:49).

Notable Quotes

• Jake Hanrahan (07:10): "All cops are bastards."
• Lavi (15:36): "We make that now three years, and there was nothing big money, you know..."
• Jake Hanrahan (19:07): "If it's happening, then it happens."
• Hattie (21:10): "Well, those men should shut up."

Insights and Themes

1. Intersection of Crime and Sport: Frontier exemplifies how underground fight clubs can serve as hubs for criminal activities, blending illicit operations with unregulated sports.

2. Economic Struggles as Catalysts: The COVID-19 pandemic's impact highlights how economic hardship can drive individuals towards marginalized subcultures seeking purpose and status.

3. Gender Dynamics in Violence: The inclusion of female fighters challenges traditional gender roles within the violent subculture, opening discussions on empowerment and resistance.

4. Authenticity vs. Spectacle: Jake's skepticism about the legitimacy of some fights underscores a tension between genuine violence and orchestrated spectacles aimed at maintaining prestige.

5. Survival and Identity: Fighters like Bash and Agroterra embody the struggle for identity and survival in environments that offer limited legitimate opportunities, turning to underground fighting as a means of asserting power and respect.

Conclusion

"The Criminal Connection" offers a gripping and unfiltered look into the clandestine world of no-rules fight clubs, revealing the complex interplay between crime, community, and survival. Jake Hanrahan's thorough reporting not only exposes the raw brutality of Frontier but also unearths the socio-economic factors that sustain such underground operations. As Frontier continues to navigate the dangers of law enforcement and internal rivalries, listeners are left anticipating the next chapter in this riveting exploration of society's underbelly.