Annabelle Christie’s journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began like many others—with curiosity and uncertainty—but her progression from white belt to IBJJF Pan Champion reveals the discipline behind early success. In this conversation, Annabelle reflects on her first classes, the challenges of balancing school with training, and the moments that shaped her competitive mindset. She discusses how training at Crazy 88 influenced her development, what she learned from competing across divisions, and how she approaches the mental side of preparing for major tournaments.

Annabelle also shares her thoughts on adapting to purple-belt competition, refining her technique, and the lessons she’s learned from testing herself against larger opponents. The episode closes with insight into her future goals in BJJ, her life away from the mats, and the values that continue to guide her as both an athlete and a person.

Host Jake Dante reconnects with his former coach, Danny Ives, the founder of Ivey League MMA in Maryland. In this episode, they explore the evolution of Ives’ martial arts journey—from his early days training in the 1990s to building a thriving academy that shaped hundreds of grapplers across the region.

They discuss the birth of Ivey League MMA, how the local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA community has evolved, and the lasting lessons that martial arts teach beyond competition. Danny also opens up about what it takes to run a successful gym, mentor young athletes, and maintain balance as both a coach and lifelong student of the art.

It’s a full-circle conversation filled with insight, humor, and respect between two people whose paths crossed on the same mats years ago.

Topics Covered:

• The founding and growth of Ivey League MMA

• Danny Ives’ martial arts background and influences

• Coaching philosophies and teaching kids

• Lessons in leadership, discipline, and longevity in BJJ

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream.

In this episode of Off the Mats Podcast, host Jake Dante sits down with Laith Hyali, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt training out of Crazy 88 MMA in Severna Park and the owner of No MoSquitos MD. Laith shares how Jiu-Jitsu shaped his discipline, his approach to business, and his ability to stay grounded through life’s challenges.

From his early days as a white belt to refining his pressure game as a brown belt, Laith opens up about lessons learned on and off the mats — from mindset shifts, competition takeaways, and mentorship at Ivey League MMA and Crazy 88 to balancing family life.

Whether you’re chasing your next belt or trying to find balance between your passions and responsibilities, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and that signature Off the Mats energy that reminds us: BJJ isn’t just a sport — it’s a lifestyle.

We want to give a shout out to @johnsfitmeals

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