Episode #84
Richie Miranda Had 10 Days to Become a UFC Fighter
UFC lightweight Richie “El Machete” Miranda talks about finally getting his UFC debut on just ten days’ notice—and why a close loss leaves him feeling he still has something to prove. The Santa Ana fighter breaks down that first fight, the years of waiting for his chance, and what he’s learned training with Cub Swanson. He also shares the story behind his Danny Trejo-inspired nickname, his bond with teammate Danny Silva, and the life he keeps outside the cage with his family and his dad’s auto shop.Chapters00:00 Meet UFC fighter Richie Miranda01:23 Why reaching the UFC doesn’t feel complete yet02:44 The ten-day call for his UFC debut05:50 Breaking down his fight with Manoel Sousa07:37 Waiting years for the right opportunity09:58 The loss, his family and what comes next13:04 Training with Cub Swanson16:16 Bloodline rallies around Danny Silva17:49 Representing Santa Ana20:06 The Danny Trejo story behind “El Machete”23:55 Feeling most alive inside the cage26:08 Richie’s rare bulldog-choke finish28:12 The cost of leaving fights to the judges30:47 The fighters Richie looks up to32:52 Dealing with MMA fans and social media36:25 The pressure on regional fighters39:25 The mental toughness behind his UFC journey41:32 When the UFC call almost comes—but doesn’t45:15 Motorcycles and his dad’s auto shop47:20 Where Richie wants to fight next
