Kai Kara-France "HUNGRY" for KO vs. Alexandre Pantoja, cruise ship fight

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd

Episode Title: Daniel Cormier TV - Kai Kara-France "HUNGRY" for KO vs. Alexandre Pantoja, Cruise Ship Fight
Release Date: June 28, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

---

Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, the spotlight shines on UFC's rising star, Kai Kara-France. The discussion delves deep into Kara-France's upcoming fight against the reigning champion, Alexandre Pantoja, exploring his journey, cultural heritage, and the motivations driving his pursuit of the flyweight title.

---

Kai Kara-France’s Unique Fight Experience on a Cruise Ship

Timestamp [02:25] – [05:10]

The episode kicks off with an intriguing anecdote from Kai Kara-France about fighting on a cruise ship in Phuket. Kara-France recounts the surreal experience of battling a Filipino fighter amidst the cruise ship’s festive atmosphere.

• Interviewer: “It was funny because all the workers on the cruise ship were Filipino. When we were fighting, it felt like I was fighting Manny Pacquiao in the Philippines. But I ended up winning.”

Kara-France describes the unconventional setup:

• Kara-France: “It was on the top deck on the 10th story, no roof, nothing. People were just hanging out by the pool watching the fight.”

The fight was swift, ending in less than 30 seconds, allowing Kai and his team to enjoy two days of celebration post-victory.

---

Cultural Heritage and Personal Identity

Timestamp [05:11] – [10:56]

A significant portion of the conversation centers on Kai Kara-France’s deep connection to his Māori heritage and how it shapes his identity both inside and outside the Octagon.

• Kara-France: “In my culture and multiculturalism, showing emotion is a sign of strength. It’s something that I draw on for strength and protection.”

He reflects on the generational trauma faced by his ancestors, who were forced to anglicize their Māori names and suppress their native language due to racism and segregation.

• Kara-France: “Our grandparents had to change their names and couldn’t speak their native language... But now, my kids have Mori names and are growing up speaking fluent te reo Māori before English.”

This embrace of his heritage not only strengthens Kai personally but also serves as an inspiration to his community, symbolizing resilience and pride.

• Kara-France: “When [the interviewer] asked me about my name and my culture, it means so much to me. It embodies everything. I’m bringing culture with me, and that’s why it means so much.”

---

Preparation and Mindset for UFC 317

Timestamp [17:40] – [24:14]

As Kai prepares to face Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 317, he discusses his strategic approach and mental fortitude.

• Kara-France: “I have the highest takedown defense in the division. I’m too fast, too quick, but when Pantoja becomes stubborn, that’s when I’ll have opportunities to put him out.”

He acknowledges the challenges of prolonged fight camps and the toll they take on fighters but emphasizes his commitment and preparation during his year-long hiatus.

• Kara-France: “I’ve been in the gym just grinding. I’m bringing in my career best, giving myself the best chance by going all in.”

Kai’s focus is not just on the fight but also on representing his culture and providing hope and inspiration to his people.

• Kara-France: “This fight is bigger than me because of who I’m representing and where I come from. That’s what I’m feeding off.”

---

Reflection on Past Fights and Future Aspirations

Timestamp [19:23] – [24:14]

Reflecting on his previous encounter with Pantoja during The Ultimate Fighter, Kai demonstrates growth and readiness to seize this second opportunity.

• Kara-France: “If you just watch that fight and think it will be the same this weekend, you’re wrong. I was a boy then; now I’m a man. I know my skill set and have confidence.”

He acknowledges the lessons learned from his past loss and how they shape his current strategy.

• Kara-France: “I learned a lot from that experience. Coming out the other side and picking myself back up. Now, it’s Kai time.”

Kai envisions the championship not just as a personal achievement but as a cultural milestone.

• Kara-France: “Winning the belt brings mana. It demands respect and gives my people hope and something to celebrate.”

He shares a heartfelt visualization of victory, highlighting the emotional and cultural significance it holds.

• Kara-France: “I visualize Dana putting the belt on me 100%. It makes me tear up because I want this so bad.”

---

Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

As the episode wraps up, Kai Kara-France reiterates his unwavering determination to secure the UFC Flyweight Championship. He emphasizes that his journey is a blend of personal ambition and cultural pride, aiming to inspire others through his achievements.

• Kara-France: “I’m ready to do whatever it takes. This fight is over 15 years of my life, and I’ve never been good at anything else but fighting. That’s what’s kept me in the gym.”

---

Notable Quotes

• Kai Kara-France: “In my culture and multiculturalism, showing emotion is a sign of strength.” ([07:12])

• Kara-France: “Our grandparents had to change their names and couldn’t speak their native language… But now, my kids have Mori names and are growing up speaking fluent te reo Māori before English.” ([09:30])

• Kara-France: “If you just watch that fight and think it will be the same this weekend, you’re wrong. I was a boy then; now I’m a man.” ([19:34])

• Kara-France: “Winning the belt brings mana. It demands respect and gives my people hope and something to celebrate.” ([20:40])

• Kara-France: “This fight is bigger than me because of who I’m representing and where I come from.” ([17:49])

---

Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers an in-depth look into Kai Kara-France’s multifaceted persona as both a fighter and a cultural ambassador. From his unique fight experiences to his profound connection with his Māori heritage, Kai embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. As UFC 317 approaches, listeners gain valuable insights into what makes Kai not just a formidable athlete but also a source of inspiration for his community.

For fans and newcomers alike, this episode provides a comprehensive understanding of Kai Kara-France’s journey, motivations, and aspirations, making it a must-listen for those interested in the intersections of sports, culture, and personal growth.

Transcript

[Host]

This is an iHeart podcast. This podcast is sponsored by Total Wireless, the official wireless partner of ufc. When you're streaming the fight or sharing those takedown highlights, you need a wireless provider that keeps you close to the action. With Total Wireless, you're covered by the Verizon 5G network, so you don't have to worry about your connection being knocked.

[Interviewer]

Out at the biggest moments.

[Host]

It's not something you can usually say about a wireless provider, but Total Wireless really does have your back. They're in your corner every second of the day, so you never miss a thing. Visit totalwireless.com or visit your local Total Wireless Store to learn more about how Total Wireless can be in your corner. 5G access requires a 5G capable device and a 5G service area. Additional terms apply. See website for details.

[Advertiser]

Are you still quoting 30 year old movies? Have you said cool beans in the past 90 days? Do you think Discover isn't widely accepted? If this sounds like you, you're stuck in the past. Discover is accepted at 99% of places that take credit cards nationwide, and every time you make a purchase with your card, you automatically earn cash back. Welcome to the now it pays to Discover. Learn [e-mail] credit card based on the February 2024 Nielsen report okay, have you heard about this?

Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant. The fans rebelled and wanted the old scent back and Degree listened and that doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and are bringing the original Cool Rush scent back. And it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason why it's the number one man's antiperspirant. And it's back in Walmart to Target and other stores now for under $4. So try it and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart Target and try the OG Cool Rush for yourself.

Some matches are temporary, but your privacy shouldn't be. With line two, you get a second phone line just for dating. No need to share your personal number until you're ready. You can chat, text and even block numbers, all while keeping things fun and private. It's perfect for online dating, blind dates, or just keeping things light when you're ready to move on. Line two lets you cut ties without any drama. Dating should be fun and carefree. Line two keeps it that way. Ready to date on your terms? Visit line2.com audio or download line2 in the App Store today.

[Kai Kara France]

The volume.

[Interviewer]

What'S up guys? I'm here With Kai Karl France, who fights for the UFC flyweight championship of the world this weekend. I always get that confused. Bantamweight, flyweight, straw weight. Like, why can't we say 125?

[Kai Kara France]

I don't even know pounds. I know it's kg.

[Interviewer]

So, yeah, you see, that's why they got to give it those nicknames.

[Host]

So before we get into that, before we get into this. So I read this, I put this.

[Interviewer]

Down in the notes. It wasn't moving.

[Host]

So you don't have to worry about.

[Interviewer]

Getting boat sick or falling off. The fights were in Phuket. My teammates had to come on the cruise ship and watch the fight.

[Host]

I was fighting the Filipino fighter and.

[Interviewer]

It was funny because all the workers on the cruise ship were Filipino.

[Host]

They all came out of the kitchen and came out.

[Interviewer]

When we were fighting, it felt like I was fighting Manny Pacquiao in the Philippines. But I ended up winning. It was less than 30 seconds to fight, and then we got to party on the boat for two days.

[Host]

What in the world is that, Doug? You were fighting on a boat?

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah. A cruise ship. Yeah, yeah. First of its of kind, it was like a movie, really. I could see my opponent when I first saw him, he looked like he was on holiday. And I was like, bro, we're gonna fight first. Don't bell going on this cruise ship and having a holiday. We're gonna throw down.

[Interviewer]

What was he doing? Partying.

[Kai Kara France]

Oh, I could just see it on his face. He was kind of dancing and like, just. Just overwhelmed. Like, he. He was like, where am I? Sure I'm actually here to work. Not.

[Interviewer]

That is the craziest thing.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, so overnight we. We flew to Malaysia and yeah, overnight from Malaysia to Phuket, we came on the boat. So it took about, I don't know, five hours to get back to Phuket. And then we docked at the port, so I wasn't moving. And then on the top deck on the 10th story, no roof, nothing. It was on the open next to the pool. Like, people are like, wait, were this.

[Interviewer]

Just like normal people on the cruise and they got to watch a fight?

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah.

[Host]

So they were port and they didn't leave yet.

[Interviewer]

And they watch y' all fight?

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, all just in the pool, hanging out. And the fights, they were like, if it rains, it's probably going to be cancelled, so hopefully it doesn't rain. And then, yeah, we're warming up next to the cocktail bar.

[Interviewer]

Oh, my God.

[Kai Kara France]

And then they said, we're walking. And then I think the theme of the. The cruise Ship was like a pirate thing. So like the. The announcer was dressed as a pirate and all of this. But yeah, when I walked out, I was like, well, I've got business first and then I can party after.

[Interviewer]

You must had a great time. It was like a vacation. A fight and a vacation.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, it was I think 20 seconds the whole fight. Dropped him straight away for a hand of first punch and then from there uppercuts until the ref pulled me off. And then, yeah, I had two days to just party and hang out with my friends.

[Interviewer]

That's amazing.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, it was pretty cool. Bucket list.

[Interviewer]

So the last fight, right, you fought on that cruise ship. You probably fought all over the place to get to where you are today. We're in Australia. You're fighting Steve Irceg, who's a tremendous boxer. You hit him bang, put him out clean. You had been gone for a while, right. Taking some time off to recover, get right to have that performance there. What did it feel like?

[Kai Kara France]

Like this was his hometown. Like New Zealand and Australia, we're seen as one. But when we're fighting each other, it's. It's a rivalry.

[Interviewer]

Yeah.

[Kai Kara France]

And it's the shots you don't see coming that hurt you.

[Advertiser]

And.

[Kai Kara France]

And he didn't see it coming. He didn't adjust for the extra step I took. And he's a great counter fighter. But we game plan for that, that he would try pull and he didn't pull far enough. And then that's when that, you know, people know him as a. For my right hand, but the left hand is the one that landed. So yeah, just from there it's instinct. You know, I've done this so many times now. I know when someone's hurt and that's a skill. And you know, when I saw he was wobbling and I knew, okay, I just need to rush this guy now he wants a way out. And then the ref had saw seen enough when I landed that right hand and he just showed up and yeah, it was just perfect. Kind of welcome, welcome back party and welcome, welcome back fight for myself. And just cemented me right where I wanted to be. And that's at the top.

[Interviewer]

You were in the Octagon after and I'm interviewing you. And I said, boy, what a left hand. Because very few 125 pounders can put you out like that. And you said, I'm Mori, bro. And the place went absolutely crazy.

[Kai Kara France]

I didn't realize how big that was until I went back home saying, yeah, that went super viral. And really in Aotearoa New Zealand. And everywhere I went, you know, it was such a simple sentence but so powerful at the same time. And just going like, I was speaking my truth. I didn't rehearse any of that. When you told me, when you asked me that question, none. None of that was rehearsed. I was just going off of how I felt.

[Interviewer]

Emotion.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, just emotion. You know who I am? I don't know. I don't shy away from being emotional. And in my culture and multiculture, showing emotion is a sign of strength. Yeah. And, yeah, I was just being open and honest. So when I said that and I went back home and so many people coming up to me, they didn't even watch the fight. They just saw that.

[Interviewer]

And I said, really?

[Kai Kara France]

You don't know how much you've done. Done for your people. And just knowing that you. You're able to change someone's, I guess, mood or reaction just from one. One sentence, it just. I just knew that, like, the next big fight that I'm doing, I'm emboddling all of this. I'm bringing all my culture with me. It's my superpower. It's something that I draw on for strength. It's something that I draw on for particular protection. But you don't know until you see it like a haka or our culture, how beautiful it is. So, yeah, that's why I get emotional, talking about my culture and everything, because it means so much to me. It is me.

[Interviewer]

You said it from your chest. But earlier we were talking in the fighter meeting, and that hasn't always been, like, the thing, right? Your name, your full name. You were telling me a beautiful story about your name. And Kamaru Usman had a very similar story. Everybody used to call him Marty in wrestling because to call him by his real name was a little bit different. And you were speaking about your name and how much now you, like, embrace everything about your culture. But when you were younger and your kids gave you that traditional name, your parents gave you that traditional name, you were like, just call me Kai. Because kids were making fun of you for your. Your name.

[Kai Kara France]

And my first name was. Was James. And, you know, taking it really. This was generational trauma. So my. Our grandparents, they had to change their names. They had Maori names, but they had to change to English names because they were dealing with racism, they were dealing with segregation because of just their name. And then in schools, they couldn't speak their native language. They used to get beaten, and it was stripped of them. So now full circle, you know, that was still around when I was growing up, not getting beat.

[Interviewer]

Because we asked you why did they ever call you by your name James?

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah.

[Interviewer]

And you said no.

[Kai Kara France]

No, my family have never called me James. They call me Kai Fade. That's the only name I know. But when I was in primary school, everyone kept messing up my name. They didn't know how to pronounce it properly. And it, you know, you're still trying to figure out.

[Interviewer]

I was young.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, I was young and I didn't know how powerful your name can be to help you. And just navigating all of that, I just had enough people mispronouncing my name. I just want to be James. James France.

[Interviewer]

James. Sorry.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, yeah, James France, which is, you know, the widest name and the most name you can get. But that, that's because that's been passed on generational, generation trauma from, you know, our grandparents and their grandparents, because that was seen as looked down upon, you know, and I wanted to just. Yeah, full circle now, you know, my kids, they have Mori names and I'm proud to know that they're going to be growing up speaking fluent te reo mori before English, and that's how far we've come. You know, when our grandparents were growing up, they couldn't speak their language. So that's why it was lost. That was lost through for our generation. But now that it's such a unique thing and it's such a advantage to be able to speak te reo mori and now there's such a high demand that there's like a year long wait list to get into schools.

[Interviewer]

Wow.

[Kai Kara France]

So full circle. That's why I'm very emotional about my name because I've had to go through a lot of stuff, just be proud of it and be full circle now with my kids, you know, walking that path with them, reconnecting with culture, but knowing where they come from to know where they're heading. So I'm heading to the top. I'm bringing culture with me and, you know, that's, that's why it means so much to me.

[Interviewer]

That's beautiful.

[Host]

All right, guys.

[Interviewer]

UFC 317 is this weekend live from the T Mobile arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

[Host]

And we got two UFC title fights. So once again, I'm partnering up with the DraftKings split sportsbook to give all new customers a fantastic offer. Bet only $5 or more on UFC 317 and get $150 in bonus bets instantly when you use my promo code, dctv. Hey, we got Oliveira versus Topuria and we have Kara France taking on the champion Alexandre Pantoja. Two massive fights headline the card so you should get in on the action at the DraftKings sportsbook where bet only $5 or more and and get $150.

[Interviewer]

In bonus bets instantly when you use.

[Host]

My promo code, DCTV. Get to the DraftKingsports book right now for UFC317, where the crown is yours.

[Advertiser]

Gambling problem. Call 1-800-GAMBLER in New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY at 467-369 in Connecticut. Help is available for problem gambling, call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly on behalf of Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Kansas, 21 and over. Age and eligibility varies by jurisdiction. Void in Ontario. Bet reward minimum minus 500 odds required bonus bets expire 168 hours after issuance. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources, see DKNG Co Audio.

[Host]

This podcast is sponsored by Total Wireless, the official wireless partner of ufc, so when you're streaming the fight or sharing those takedown highlights, you need a wireless provider that keeps you close to the action. With Total Wireless, you're covered by the Verizon 5G network, so you don't have to worry about your connection being knocked out at the biggest moments. It's not something you can usually say about a wireless provider, but Total Wireless really has your back. They're in your corner every second of the day, so you never miss a thing. They keep you covered for just $25 a month with four lines without sacrificing the essentials like speed. With Total, you get unlimited 5G data so you can stay ahead of the action and keep up with every knockout. Total Wireless understands you can't afford surprise blows any more than your favorite fighter can. That's why the price is guaranteed for five years, taxes and fees included. The best fighters don't make it to the Octagon alone. They have all in support along the way, and it shouldn't be any different from for you. So visit totalwireless.com or visit your local Total Wireless store to learn more about how Total Wireless can be in your corner. 5G access requires a 5G capable device and a 5G service area. Monthly rate on the Total Base 5G Unlimited plan for new subscribers applies only to the monthly rate for your plan. Additional terms apply. See website for details.

[Advertiser]

Some matches are temporary, but your privacy shouldn't be. With line two, you get a second phone line just for dating. No need to share your personal number until you're ready. You can chat, text and even block numbers, all while keeping things fun and private. It's perfect for online dating, blind dates or just keeping things light. When you're ready to move on, Line two lets you cut ties without any drama. Dating should be fun and carefree life and line two keeps it that way. Ready to date on Your terms? Visit lineto.comaudio or download line 2 in the app Store Today the American west.

[Dan Flores]

With Dan Flores is the latest show from the Meat Eater Podcast Network. Hosted by me, writer and historian Dan Flores and brought to you by Velvet Buck, this podcast looks at a West available nowhere else. Each episode I'll be diving into some of the lesser known histories of the West. I'll then be joined in conversation by guests such as Western historian Dr. Randall Williams and best selling author and meat eater founder Stephen Rinella.

[Advertiser]

I'll correct my kids now and then.

[Host]

Where they'll say when cave people were here.

[Advertiser]

And I'll say it seems like the.

[Kai Kara France]

Ice Age people that were here didn't.

[Host]

Have a real affinity for caves.

[Dan Flores]

So join me starting Tuesday, May 6th where we'll delve into stories of the west and come to understand how how it helps inform the ways in which we experience the region today.

[Advertiser]

Listen to the American west with Dan Flores on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

I know a lot of cops and they get asked all the time, have you ever had to shoot your gun? Sometimes the answer is yes. But there's a company dedicated to a future where the answer will always be no.

Across the country, cops called this Taser the Revolution.

But not everyone was convinced it was that simple.

[Dan Flores]

Cops believed everything that Taser told them.

[Advertiser]

From Lava for Good and the team that brought you Bone Valley comes a story about what happened when a multi billion dollar company dedicated itself to one visionary mission. This is Absolute Season 1 Taser Incorporated.

[Kai Kara France]

I get right back there and it's bad. It's really, really really bad.

[Advertiser]

Listen to new episodes of Absolute Season 1 Taser incorporated on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Binge episodes 1, 2 and 3 on May 21 and episodes 4, 5 and 6 on June 4 ad free at Lava for Good plus on Apple Podcasts.

[Interviewer]

Speaking of the top, this weekend you fight the champ Pantoja. You said about him that he's stubborn. If he tries to wrestle you and take you down, it'll be difficult. You have the highest takedown defense in the division. You're too fast, you're too quick, but then he'll become stubborn. And when he becomes stubborn and starts marching forward, you will have opportunities to put him out. When you break down Pantoja and you see that, what level of confidence does that give you going into this fight? Because we have seen a guy now who's defended the belt three times on his fourth title defense against you. And what we see is this great champion. But you see a lot of opportunity, 100%.

[Kai Kara France]

And you know this from experience, fighting regularly back to back, five rounders. It takes a toll. And it's not just the fight, it's the camps.

[Interviewer]

Yeah, the camps are what's hard.

[Kai Kara France]

Yeah, 100%. That's what will retire you. So knowing that, you know, he's gone through a lot of these five round camps and his coaches are trying to get the best out of him, it's hard to stay at the top. And I know that from my teammates that have been fighting the best guys as a champion, you know, Izzy and Volk. So I just know it takes. It takes a toll on you. And I'm coming to this after nearly a year off. But I've been in the gym just grinding, and I've had to be pulled back a few times because I was overtraining. I was going too hard where I thought I was fighting in Miami. And they're like, no, no, you're not till, you know, June on International Fight Week. So, like, I'm bringing in my career best, and that's just me giving myself the best chance, preparing the only way I know how. And that's just to go all in. Like, I've been all in since the start of this year. My family have known it. They know. My wife knows. Okay, cool. I need to pick up the slack with the kids and make sure they're sorted because got a job to do and I'm that focused. And this fight's bigger than me because of who I'm representing and where I come from. And, yeah, that's what I'm feeding off. So whatever Pantoja is bringing to the table, you know, I'll have an answer for it. And like I said, I want to be the first guy that knocks this guy out. I know he's tough, I know he's durable, but everyone's got an off button. You just need to hit them hard enough and hit them on the right spot. So I feel like everything's aligning perfectly. My maturity as a person, as A man and as a fighter, it's all coming together and having that strength and that power, because I'm Mori is going to be all the difference.

[Interviewer]

You and Pantoja fought way back in the day on the Ultimate Fighter. Can you take anything from that or is that just completely water under the bridge because you guys are so young in your careers?

[Kai Kara France]

I knew Pantoja was going to be one of the best fighters in. He was the number one seed back then and he was, you know, people were afraid of him because he just had that look. And I never backed down from a challenge. You know, it was only a two round fight. He did what he needed to and he got the win. But it doesn't tell the full story. If you just watch that fight and you, and you think, okay, it's going to be the same this weekend. I was a boy back then, yeah. Now I'm a man now. I know what I'm fighting for. I know that I know my skill set and I have that confidence. So going through the highs and lows of this fight game, you figure out I've had to figure this career on the job. I first had my first fight when I was 17, so I took a few losses earlier in my career, but I always knew how to come back for them. Coming back from this loss, I get to run this back and make history, Making history.

[Interviewer]

And earlier you said what you represent. If you win this belt this weekend, you'll be only the second New Zealand UFC World champion. What would that mean to Kai Kara France?

[Kai Kara France]

It's not the title and you know the belt, that is what I'm chasing, is what it brings. That's what I'm chasing and that brings mana. So when you walk into a room, you have a prison that demands from respect. And in my culture it's the highest honor. So that's what I'm chasing and what it means for my people. It gives us hope, inspiration and something to celebrate. And you know, like we talked about in our talking about full circle of being proud of who you are and where you come from, it just embodies everything. So that's why this, this fight's bigger than me. And that's what I've tapped into this fight camp, just having that connection. And when I'm in dark times and I'm gonna go through, go through the fire, I've got a strong enough wire to push me through and get me through whatever happens in this fight. So I don't take it lightly when I say I'm not leaving without this bout, because I'm willing to do whatever. And took that 15 year bucket list to be a world champion, I get to go do that Saturday, and took that off.

[Interviewer]

You have fought for the belt once before. It didn't go your way. You take those lessons, apply it to the second time. How much did you learn in that opportunity from the build from all this that comes with fighting for a UFC championship that, you know, now that you can apply to this Saturday, the fight might not have went you away in Dallas, but, boy, that was a nice after party.

[Host]

Hey, the boy was in there. The boy was in that after party. It was nice, guy. That's the last time I've been out. It was a nice. That was the last.

[Interviewer]

That was a nice after party.

[Kai Kara France]

It was a while ago and I know, like a week before that, they were like, I'm surprised that the after party's here. There was a shootout here. I was like, okay, what. What are we still doing here?

[Interviewer]

Let's go shoot out at the placement. Boy, any club that has a shootout very prior is a good place to hang out and party. Yeah, it's just fun.

[Kai Kara France]

But no, you know, I learned a lot from that experience. Just going through it, coming out the other side and picking myself back up. I knew that I had moments in that fight, and Brandon Moreno did really well to capitalise on his moments, and that's the difference at the top, it's those game adventures, and that's the difference between walking out of that belt. So it wasn't my time. You know, hats off to Brandon Moreno and what he's done in his career. But now, you know, full circle. I've climbed my way back to a title fight for UFC317 against Pantoja. And now it's Kai time.

[Interviewer]

It's Kai time.

[Kai Kara France]

And you know what Kai time means.

[Interviewer]

What's that?

[Kai Kara France]

It's food time.

[Interviewer]

Food time. Hey, we hungry. Have you allowed yourself to see that moment when they put that belt around you? Have you allowed yourself to just close your eyes and envision Dana putting that.

[Kai Kara France]

Belt on you 100%? It makes me tear up because, you know, I want. I want this so bad.

[Interviewer]

So sweet.

[Kai Kara France]

I want this so bad. I know you've. You've felt it time and time again, and there's no better feeling. But I know I've got a tough ask in front of me, and once I earn it by taking this guy out, man, the satisfaction that I'm gonna get just to know that how far I've come and through all the doubt, all the, you know, head noise and all the, you know, what I've had to come through, it was all for something. So that's what I'm looking forward to. And I visualize this for 15 years, you know, since I started the sport, that's all I've ever wanted to do. I never been good at anything else than fighting. And yeah, that's what's kept me in the gym because I haven't took that off. So I can't wait.

[Interviewer]

And yeah, and you fight very good guys. Kai Karl France fights for the UFC Flyweight Championship Saturday UFC 317, 317Co Main event against the champ Alessandre Pantoja. Tap into everything this young man is doing for From Instagram to TikTok to everything else. Make sure you tap in to Kai Kara France. Until next time. Like subscribe and tell your friends about my YouTube channel because I'm checking out with my Maori friend Kai Kara France. Until next time. Peace.

[Host]

This podcast is sponsored by Total Wireless, the official wireless partner of ufc. When you're streaming the fight or sharing those takedown highlights, you need a wireless provider that keeps you close to the action. With Total Wireless, you're covered by the Verizon 5G network, so you don't have to worry about your connection being knocked.

[Interviewer]

Out at the biggest moments.

[Host]

It's not something you can usually say about a wireless provider, but Total Wireless really does have your back. They're in your corner every second of the day, so you never miss a thing. Visit totalwireless.com or visit your local Total Wireless store to learn more about how Total Wireless can be in your corner. 5G access requires a 5G capable device and a 5G service area. Additional terms apply. See website for details.

[Advertiser]

Okay, have you heard about this? Last year, Degree changed the formula for their Cool Rush deodorant. The fans rebelled and wanted the old scent back and Degree listened and that doesn't happen often. They admitted they effed up and are bringing the original Cool Rush scent back and it's exactly how you remember it. Cool, crisp and fresh. There's a reason why it's the number one man's antiperspirant. And it's back in Walmart, Target and other stores now for under $4. So try it and see what the fuss is about. Head to your local Walmart, Target and try to OG Cool Rush for yourself.

[Dan Flores]

Why is a soap opera Western like Yellowstone so wildly successful? The American west with Dan Flores is the latest show from the Meat Eater Podcast Network. So join me starting Tuesday, May 6, where we'll delve into stories of the west and come to understand how it helps inform the ways in which we experience the region today.

[Advertiser]

Listen to the American west with Dan Flores on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

I know a lot of cops. They get asked all the time, have you ever had to shoot your gun? Sometimes the answer is yes. But there's a company dedicated to a future where the answer will always be no. This is Absolute Season one, Taser Incorporated.

[Kai Kara France]

I get right back there and it's bad.

[Advertiser]

Listen to Absolute Season 1, Taser Incorporated on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Host]

This is an iHeart podcast.