Podcast Summary: Digital Social Hour - Episode #1445

Title: Pono & Anthony Blackburn: PowerSlap: The Next Big Thing in Combat Sports?

Release Date: July 13, 2025

Host: Sean Kelly

Introduction

In Episode #1445 of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly welcomes Pono and Anthony Blackburn, both prominent PowerSlap fighters and champions, to discuss the burgeoning sport of PowerSlap. The conversation delves into their training regimes, the rapid growth of PowerSlap, strategic elements of the sport, and insights garnered from influential figures like Dana White.

Preparing for Upcoming Fights

Training Intensity and Readiness

Sean initiates the discussion by inquiring about the fighters' preparation for their upcoming matches. Pono confidently asserts, "I've trained all the time. Yeah, that's it. We always ready" (00:36), emphasizing the importance of constant readiness to avoid last-minute preparations.

Unique Walkout Element

Pono shares an exciting development: the introduction of the first-ever striker walkout, facilitated by his mentor Mike Barron. "He's been very influential in my life... he's gonna be coming out with me and doing the striker walkout" (00:47). This addition aims to elevate the spectacle of PowerSlap events, similar to the UFC's walkout traditions.

The Growth of PowerSlap

Rapid Expansion and Global Reach

Anthony highlights the explosive growth of PowerSlap, noting its transition from casual competitions to professional events attracting large audiences. "It's one of the fastest growing sports out there right now" (03:14). Pono echoes this sentiment, discussing increased ticket sales and international events, including upcoming matches in Saudi Arabia and New Orleans.

Audience Engagement and Viral Moments

Sean observes the unprecedented exposure PowerSlap fighters receive, mentioning, "Power Slap fighters and then podcasters, you guys get like hundreds of millions of views" (07:36). Pono adds, "my last few videos I've got 340, 350, 380 and just continue to grow" (07:58), underscoring the sport's viral potential through impactful moments and social media presence.

Training and Technique

Beyond the Slap: Technical Nuances

Contrary to popular belief, PowerSlap is not merely about delivering powerful slaps. Pono elaborates on the technical aspects, likening it to a chess match: "There's technique to it, there's angles to it, there's drives to it" (09:43). He discusses the importance of chin strength, defense as a form of offense, and strategic movements to outmaneuver opponents.

Diverse Training Approaches

Anthony shares his unique entry into the sport, transitioning from extreme sports to PowerSlap after responding to a Facebook ad while hungover. "I'm undefeated. Never been knocked out, never been knocked down" (02:05). His dedication, coupled with coaching under Brandon Bordeaux, has honed his technique and mental fortitude.

The Mental Game

Psychological Preparedness

The fighters emphasize the critical role of mental strength in PowerSlap. Pono describes the psychological toll, saying, "You're surrendering over to what it is" (14:57), highlighting the necessity of mental resilience to withstand the intense physical and psychological demands of the sport.

Eye Contact and Intimidation

Sean and the guests discuss non-verbal cues during matches. Pono notes, "You can tell if someone's in fear" through subtle signs like shifting eyes or breaking gaze (14:07). Anthony appreciates face-offs as a way to gauge an opponent's intent: "You get your first gauge. Really? Of all right, tomorrow I'm gonna see what he's about" (14:20).

Interaction with Other Fighters

Community and Camaraderie

Despite the competitive nature of PowerSlap, Pono and Anthony emphasize a sense of brotherhood among fighters. Pono shares, "It's a family thing... we have our family get-togethers" (23:47), illustrating that mutual respect and camaraderie prevail outside the ring.

Strategic Conversations and Respect

The fighters maintain professionalism, often engaging in conversations and maintaining respect even before facing opponents. Anthony remarks, "I can still go and, you know, I'll talk and chat with Isaiah. We're hanging out at the pool" (25:18), demonstrating the balanced relationship between competition and friendship.

Business and Promotion

Influence of Dana White

A significant portion of the conversation centers around Dana White's impact on PowerSlap. Pono praises White as "the master promoter" and credits him for his methodical and authentic approach: "He trusts his team... He is the one that's paving the way for every single person" (28:02). The fighters admire White's hands-on involvement and strategic promotion tactics.

Strategic Use of Influencers

Anthony highlights the strategy of incorporating influencers into PowerSlap events to amplify reach: "They were invited and, you know, we're paying for tickets. But that's what's going to blow the sport because they're the ones getting way more eyes" (30:07). This tactic has resulted in substantial live viewership and increased global recognition.

Insights and Life Lessons

Resilience and Adaptability

Pono shares personal experiences that underline the importance of resilience. Reflecting on his match against James Siegman, he states, "you don't have to think. I put my hand up... I'm done" (35:37). Anthony echoes this by emphasizing the need to stay mentally prepared and adaptable: "If you know what's coming, just keep it coherent out there" (17:55).

Strategic Adjustments During Matches

The fighters discuss the necessity of mid-match strategic changes to surprise opponents. Pono explains, "You just gotta make sure that you... whatever you say, that you deliver" (17:52), while Anthony prefers a straightforward approach: "I've got to go on one... let it rip" (18:11).

Upcoming Matches and Anticipation

Key Fights on the Horizon

The episode builds excitement around upcoming matches. Anthony anticipates his bout, mentioning, "His losses are kind of... he lost twice" (33:05), and Pono discusses his fight against James Siegman, a highly ranked competitor: "He's ready for the pain. I'm ready for the pain" (35:59).

Adjustments Due to Opponent Challenges

They discuss a recent change where a fight was altered from a title match to a regular bout due to weight discrepancies. Pono notes, "so it's a shorter match... you got less opportunity to pull ahead" (31:52), highlighting how fighters must swiftly adapt to changing circumstances.

Conclusion

Sean concludes the episode by expressing gratitude to Pono and Anthony for their insights and participation. The discussion encapsulates the dynamic and evolving nature of PowerSlap, underscored by the fighters' strategic minds, relentless training, and the sport’s explosive growth. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of PowerSlap’s intricacies, its rise in combat sports, and the dedication of its athletes.

Notable Quotes:

• Pono: "Stay ready, so that way you don't have to get ready" (00:40).
• Anthony: "It's really fun too. You know, it's a new sport, but everyone's training in their own way" (10:18).
• Sean: "You never know" (20:32).

Timestamp Guide:

• [00:00] - [00:44]: Introduction and readiness for upcoming fights.
• [02:05] - [03:14]: Anthony's journey into PowerSlap and the sport's growth.
• [07:05] - [09:43]: Increased visibility and strategic expansion.
• [10:18] - [14:20]: Training techniques and the mental game.
• [15:01] - [18:38]: In-ring strategies and fighter interactions.
• [20:07] - [30:22]: Business insights, promotion strategies, and Dana White's influence.
• [35:58] - [36:09]: Wrap-up and anticipation for future matches.

This episode offers an in-depth look into PowerSlap through the experiences of Pono and Anthony Blackburn, providing valuable insights for both fans and newcomers to the sport. Their discussions reveal the intricate balance of physical prowess, mental strength, and strategic planning that defines PowerSlap as a formidable addition to the realm of combat sports.