Digital Social Hour: From UFC Fights to Building A Cannabis Empire | Tai Tuivasa | Episode #1355

Release Date: April 27, 2025

Hosted by Sean Kelly, Digital Social Hour delves into the unfiltered lives of some of the most intriguing figures across various industries. In Episode #1355, Sean sits down with Tai Tuivasa, a renowned UFC fighter from Australia, to explore his tumultuous career, personal challenges, and his venture into the cannabis industry. This episode offers a candid look into Tai's journey, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his plans for the future.

1. Early Career and First Setback

Tai begins by recounting his rapid rise in the fighting world and his first significant loss. Reflecting on his early days, he shares:

"I kind of shot out real fast, and that was against JDS. And I just went out guns blazing and ended up getting clipped."
[06:25] Tai Tuivasa

This fight marked a pivotal moment in Tai's career, teaching him valuable lessons about humility and strategy in the ring.

2. UFC Experience and Injury

Transitioning to his UFC journey, Tai discusses the challenges he faced, including a severe knee injury that almost derailed his career:

"And then I had to figure out what I wanted to do, and I found out I was having a kid and I had to make the choice."
[03:21] Tai Tuivasa

He recounts the painful experience post-surgery:

"I kind of lost feeling to my whole right arm for about six months."
[04:26] Tai Tuivasa

Despite these setbacks, Tai's determination saw him through:

"So I just kind of put my head down and said, I gotta do this."
[05:53] Tai Tuivasa

This resilience enabled him to secure several wins post-injury, solidifying his reputation in the UFC.

3. Personal Life and Family

Tai opens up about his large family background, growing up with numerous siblings, which shaped his interpersonal skills and fighting spirit:

"I grew up in a big household... 11 siblings."
[01:16] Tai Tuivasa

He contrasts this with the host's experience as an only child, highlighting the differing dynamics of their upbringings.

4. Lifestyle Abroad and Cultural Insights

The conversation shifts to Tai's experiences living abroad, particularly in Dubai, and his observations about different cultures:

"I moved over there and stayed there while COVID hit in Australia just because the rules were a lot lenient there."
[14:23] Tai Tuivasa

He shares his appreciation for Australian produce and contrasts it with his experiences in the US, emphasizing his preference for authentic food over processed options.

5. The "Shoe" Celebration and Social Media Presence

One of Tai's signature celebrations, the "Shoe," becomes a talking point. He explains its origins and its role in his branding:

"It's been around for a long time. I think for me, it was more like a bit of a marketing stint, plus the fastest way to get some alcohol into me."
[27:56] Tai Tuivasa

His collaboration with the Nelk Boys and the viral success of the "Happy Dad" shoe video underscores the power of social media in modern sports.

6. Current Challenges and Future Aspirations

Tai candidly discusses his recent losing streak and the mental toll it has taken:

"Losing's always... I think it's how you dust ourselves off and go back at it again."
[11:21] Tai Tuivasa

Looking ahead, he reveals his plans to return to training and book fights for the upcoming year, emphasizing his commitment to reclaiming his standing in the UFC.

7. Venturing into the Cannabis Industry

Transitioning from fighting, Tai introduces his entrepreneurial side with the launch of his cannabis company:

"Dropped my company. Bam Buds cannabis company here in America."
[11:02] Tai Tuivasa

He highlights the challenges and learning curves involved in building a business empire outside the fighting realm, showcasing his versatility and drive.

8. Personal Reflections and Lifestyle Choices

Throughout the episode, Tai reflects on his lifestyle choices, including his weight fluctuations and their impact on his career:

"Always a win or lose. Sometimes win, sometimes lose."
[11:42] Tai Tuivasa

He also touches on societal issues, such as declining birth rates in America, drawing comparisons with Australia's demographic landscape.

Conclusion and Takeaways

Tai Tuivasa's narrative is one of resilience, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of success both inside and outside the UFC octagon. From overcoming severe injuries to venturing into the cannabis industry, Tai exemplifies how athletes can reinvent themselves amidst challenges. His candid discussions about personal life, cultural experiences, and business endeavors offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the man behind the fighter.

Notable Quotes:

• "I snapped my knee. So when I signed the first fight, I couldn't use my arm fully."
  [05:58] Tai Tuivasa

• "Aussies are different. We're weirdos to me."
  [28:29] Tai Tuivasa

• "I'm too fat."
  [24:32] Tai Tuivasa

For more insights and updates on Tai Tuivasa's journey, visit his cannabis company's website at bam.bambuds.com and use the promo code Bam tour for a 20% discount.

Stay Connected:

• Follow Tai Tuivasa:

  • Instagram: @taituvivasa
  • Twitter: @taituvivasa
  • Website: bam.bambuds.com

• Subscribe to Digital Social Hour:

  • Available on all major podcast platforms.

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