In this episode, Lee sits down with Robbie Lavoie, a true legend in the world of sport karate and kickboxing — a World Champion who’s competed across the globe, evolving from traditional tatami competition to the cutting edge of Total Kombat.

Robbie shares the mindset, discipline, and philosophy that shaped his career — from his early days on the mats in Canada to representing his country on the world stage. With decades of experience, Robbie breaks down the psychology of competition, the importance of mental preparation, and what separates good fighters from great ones.

You’ll also hear stories about:

The evolution of sport karate and WAKO competition 🥋

How the Total Kombat format brings out new levels of creativity and danger

Training routines, visualization, and lifelong discipline

What it means to stay humble, hungry, and motivated after world titles

His advice to the next generation of fighters entering combat sports

This is an episode packed with insight, experience, and inspiration from one of the most respected figures in the game.

00:00 Intro & welcome
00:32 Early beginnings in martial arts
02:20 Discovering sport karate and his first world championships
05:05 The mindset behind becoming a world champion
07:45 Training discipline and consistency over the years
10:18 Competing on the global stage with Team Canada
12:54 How sport karate evolved into modern formats
15:30 Transitioning into Total Kombat and adapting to new rules
18:20 The psychological edge – staying composed under pressure
20:05 What separates top athletes from the rest
23:40 How visualization and mental rehearsal changed his approach
26:15 Lessons from loss and long-term motivation
29:00 Advice for young fighters entering the sport
32:05 Staying connected to the martial arts community
35:10 Legacy, purpose, and the next chapter
37:55 Closing thoughts & thank yous

The Elite Podcast is a brand-new show where host Lee Matthews speaks to individuals who are at the top of their industry and profession. The guests will be from different backgrounds including combat sports, military, and business to coaching. Lee will be finding out along with you why they have become the best in their fields and enjoyed acclaimed success and what they all share – their determination to become ELITE in their field.

Lee Matthews is a former paratrooper, kickboxing world champion and now entrepreneur. He is the owner of the UK's biggest chain of martial arts centres.

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▶︎ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lee.matthewsbmma
▶︎ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leematthewsofficial/
▶︎ Lee’s Book - https://shorturl.at/fyGI7

Recorded and Produced by Liverpool Podcast Studios
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