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Anthony "The Violence" Pirozzoli doesn't live up to his nickname when he's laying bricks at his day job, but step into the ring with him, and you'll quickly understand how he earned it. Growing up wrestling in middle school before abandoning sports to "go work and make money," Anthony eventually found his calling later in life when his love of watching MMA transformed into an irresistible desire to step into the ring himself.

What makes Anthony's journey fascinating is his rapid evolution as a fighter. Starting with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, he quickly realized where his true passion lay: "I didn't like the option of the takedown. I prefer no escape." This philosophy perfectly captures why he transitioned from mixed martial arts to focus exclusively on kickboxing and striking. While he respects the technical beauty of ground fighting, there's something pure about two combatants standing toe-to-toe that resonates deeply with his fighting spirit and Italian heritage.

Despite working full-time as a bricklayer, Anthony's commitment to his craft is unwavering. He heads straight from construction sites to the gym for conditioning, managing to balance a demanding professional life with the rigorous training required for championship fights. This dedication has paid off with impressive victories, including winning the Impacto 165 title on just three weeks' notice and claiming Cleveland Golden Gloves at the same weight class.

From fighting in everything from hotel banquet rooms to Thailand's dedicated "mini arenas" that host fights seven nights a week, Anthony provides a fascinating glimpse into the regional fighting scene. He also shares personal connections within the fight community, including discovering he's second cousins with a previous podcast guest, and offers practical insights on weight cutting, fight preparation, and the mental aspects of combat sports. Whether you're a dedicated fight fan or simply curious about what it takes to compete at a high level while maintaining a regular career, Anthony's story offers a compelling look at the dedication, sacrifice, and pure love of competition that drives today's fighters.

Anthony "The Violence" Pirozzoli shares his journey from middle school wrestler to kickboxing champion, explaining why he abandoned grappling for striking and how his Italian heritage influences his fighting style.

• Started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu before transitioning to MMA and ultimately focusing on kickboxing and striking
• Works as a bricklayer by trade, training immediately after work despite lingering injuries
• Won the Impacto 165 title on just three weeks' notice and Cleveland Golden Gloves at 165
• Prefers stand-up fighting because "there's no escape" compared to grappling
• Cuts weight relatively easily, often fighting at 160-165 but capable of making 155
• Fought in various venues from hotel banquet rooms to Thailand's "mini arenas"
• Discovered he's second cousins with previous podcast guest Tony at Upgrade Industries gym
• Believes grapplers have the advantage in MMA despite his preference for striking

Check out Upgrade Industries gym for MMA, boxing, kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for kids, adults, fighters, and "common folk," featuring one of the best lifting facilities in the area.

All music brought to you by former guest of the show Speedo

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