
Big Hype Podcast with Jonathan Millard
The Big Hype Podcast, hosted by Jonathan Millard, is a weekly show launched in 2024 that explores the world of combat sports, including boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Each episode features interviews with athletes and figures from these sports, offering listeners insight into their journeys, challenges, and future aspirations. Jonathan Millard, a licensed Master of Ceremonies and former radio presenter, brings his expertise in engaging with athletes and providing in-depth conversations on topics like weight management, career transitions, and overcoming obstacles. Notable guests have included rising stars like Sasha Booker and seasoned professionals discussing their personal and professional growth.​
You can listen to episodes on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
Big Hype Podcast with Jonathan Millard
Mace Ruegg: The Fire Within 🔥 Unconventional Boxing Path & Future Vision ✨
This episode of the Big Hype Podcast features Jonathan Millard interviewing professional boxer Mace Ruegg from Bournemouth. Mace discusses his journey into boxing, influenced by his professional boxer father and a need to find a positive outlet as a "troubled kid." He shares early memories of being in the gym from a very young age and recounts his non-traditional path into professional boxing, which included dabbling in K-1, Thai boxing, MMA, and Jiu-Jitsu before focusing on boxing.
Mace reflects on his time fighting on the Queensbury promotion, acknowledging it as a crucial platform for his development and a stepping stone to his professional career. He touches upon the challenges of being a professional boxer, including the financial strain and the necessity of having a supportive manager like his own, Tom.
The conversation highlights Mace's unique fighting style, described as fluid and awkward, making him a difficult opponent to read. He discusses his experience fighting during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming one of Britain's busiest fighters at the time.
A significant part of the interview focuses on Mace's recent fight on a Frank Warren Queensbury card, his first 10-round bout. Despite a close loss, Mace expresses immense pride in his performance, viewing it as a valuable learning experience that has fueled his hunger for future success. He mentions a change in trainers to Ian Weaver and hints at exciting upcoming opportunities.
When asked about his aspirations in boxing, Mace reveals his primary goal is to secure his family's financial future, emphasizing this over the desire for championship titles. He also shares his vision for life after boxing, which includes opening his own gym to guide troubled youth.
Mace discusses how boxing has positively impacted his mental and general health, acknowledging the inherent ups and downs of the sport. He underscores the financial realities of being a professional boxer, balancing training with work to support his family.
The episode concludes with a rapid-fire "either or" question segment, revealing Mace's preferences on various boxing-related topics. He encourages listeners to follow his journey on his Instagram page, @maceroeg.
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