Episodes

  • Seye Adelekan: From Gorillaz to Growth — Navigating Music, Sobriety & Personal Discovery
    Jun 24 2025

    Unfiltered Conversations with Gorillaz Bassist Seye Adelekan | Champ and Contender Podcast.

    In this episode of The Champ and Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with Seye Adelekan, the talented bassist and singer-songwriter known for his work with Gorillaz and Damon Albarn. Seye shares his incredible journey from his multicultural upbringing to becoming a renowned session musician. The conversation delves into the pressures and challenges of staying sober, the evolving music industry, and the importance of creative versatility. With a fun segment on iconic bass players and a special live performance of his current single 'Fire Escape,' this episode offers a deep dive into the life and insights of a multifaceted artist.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:32 Introducing Seye Adelekan

    01:05 The Journey of a Creative

    01:50 Identity and Creativity

    05:02 Growing Up with Music

    20:21 Joining Gorillaz and Working with Damon Albarn

    35:41 Inspiration and Creativity

    43:40 Exploring Creativity and Sobriety

    44:44 Navigating Social Situations Sober

    45:44 The Emotional Journey of Sobriety

    49:56 Personal Approaches to Sobriety

    52:04 The Role of Music in Recovery

    53:12 Bass Player Showdown

    01:08:51 The Evolution of the Music Industry

    01:20:29 Advice for Aspiring Musicians

    01:23:19 Live Performance: 'Fire Escape'

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 28 mins
  • EP24: "Pineapple Pullen" to Olympic Hopeful – Freddie Pullen on Setbacks, Sacrifice & Big Dreams.
    Jun 17 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on this episode of the Champ and Contender podcast as they interview rising boxing talent, Freddie Pullen. At just 21 years old, Freddie shares his journey from starting boxing at the age of seven to winning the prestigious ABA Elite Championships. Freddie discusses his inspirations, including Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor, his experience boxing across the globe, and the mental and physical challenges of the sport. Discover what motivates Freddie to keep pushing forward, the value of amateur careers in boxing, and his future aspirations, including a potential Olympic run. Featuring engaging segments like 'Shots Stopper' and 'Last Orders,' this episode dives deep into the world of a boxer with immense potential and determination.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:23 Introducing Freddie Pullen: Rising Boxing Star

    01:14 Freddie's Boxing Journey: From Childhood to Championships

    02:07 Influences and Inspirations in Boxing

    04:55 Winning the Senior Elite Title

    10:59 The Importance of Amateur Boxing

    13:11 Facing International Competition

    17:23 The Dream of the Olympics

    21:42 The Role of Kevin Mitchell in Freddie's Career

    27:08 Reflecting on Drinking Habits

    29:02 The Impact of Alcohol on Performance

    32:08 Training and Sparring Experiences

    33:14 Amateur vs. Professional Boxing

    41:27 Sponsorships and Financial Realities in Boxing

    42:49 Shot Stopper Game: Comparing Fighters

    52:33 Kevin Mitchell vs. Joe Cordina Debate

    53:18 Analyzing Tank Davis's Boxing Skills

    54:14 The Challenges of Staying Committed in Boxing

    56:42 Freddie's Coaching Journey

    01:02:17 The Importance of West Ham Boxing Club

    01:05:32 Dream Venues and Future Fights

    01:09:08 Freddie's Personal Reflections and Advice

    01:17:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Fathers Day Special : Nick Gibbons: The Fighter, The Father
    Jun 15 2025

    The Champ and Contender Podcast: An Unexpected Guest Shares Boxing Tales and Life Lessons.

    In this episode of The Champ and Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore welcome a surprise guest — Joseph's father, an ABA boxer with a wealth of stories. The discussion covers his early boxing years, the importance of starting young, training regimens, iconic fights, and personal anecdotes from his colourful life, including his time as an 18-30s holiday rep. The episode offers a nostalgic look at boxing's golden era and delves into the mindset and challenges faced by both amateur and professional boxers. Tune in for an engaging blend of humour, history, and heartfelt moments.

    00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Guest

    01:10 Early Boxing Days

    03:38 Training and Techniques

    05:27 Memorable Fights and Challenges

    08:55 The Role of Confidence in Boxing

    14:40 Balancing Boxing and Life

    23:40 Reflections on Modern Boxing

    25:06 Tyson Fury's Comeback Journey

    26:58 Comparing Tyson Fury to Muhammad Ali

    28:21 From Boxing to Entertainment: A Personal Story

    31:40 The Game: Shot Stopper

    34:21 Debating the Greatest Heavyweights

    44:04 The Golden Era of Heavyweight Boxing

    46:41 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • PPQQ Special Guest Bobby Webster
    Jun 3 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on the latest episode of the Champ and Contender Podcast as they welcome special guest Bobby Webster. Watch as they dive into the fun and unpredictable game 'Double P Double Q' (Public Pub Quiz Questions), tackling a series of hilarious and thought-provoking questions submitted by the public. From 'Smash, Marry, Kill' to discussing historical figures they'd like to meet, and even pondering the most embarrassing moments of their lives, this episode is packed with laughter, surprise, and candid moments. Plus, Bobby reveals his all-time Premier League starting eleven. Tune in for a mix of humour, nostalgia, and genuine conversation.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:07 Introducing the Special Guest: Bobby Webster

    00:51 The Game Begins: Double P Double Q

    01:43 Hilarious Public Pub Quiz Questions

    03:11 Historical Figures and Personal Memories

    07:25 Embarrassing Moments and Childhood Memories

    12:03 Future Aspirations and Personal Goals

    25:02 Musical Tastes and Iconic Performances

    31:18 Debating Unusual Scenarios

    33:11 Death Row Last Meal

    34:34 Dream House in Barbados

    36:23 Favourite Video Games

    43:01 Regrets and Reflections

    54:40 All-Time Premier League XI

    01:02:58 Closing Remarks

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • EP21: The Art of Balance Just Geen’s Fitness and Life Tips
    May 27 2025

    In this episode of The Champ & Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with none other than Just Geen (@just_geen) — fitness coach, online trainer, and creator of the viral “Beats and Bands” program. 🏋🏾‍♀️🎶 Geen keeps it all the way real about her journey — from leaving a bad relationship and a 9–5 job to becoming a full-time fitness entrepreneur, building a loyal community, and collaborating with brands like Gymshark. 💼➡️💪🏾 💥 What’s inside: How a breakup sparked her glow-up ❤️‍🔥 Building her meal prep business from scratch 🍱 Creating Beats and Bands — dance + resistance training 🔥 Life in Ghana 🇬🇭 and growing a global fitness brand 🌍 Talking cycles, Pilates, inclusivity, and staying authentic as a fitness leader 👯‍♀️📲 And of course — we wrap it up with a powerful edition of our signature game Shot Stopper, where Geen gives her takes on iconic Black women leaders and legends. 👑🎯 If you’re into fitness, real talk, business moves, and boss energy — this one’s for you. 🎧 Hit play. Subscribe. Let’s get it.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 – Welcome

    00:17 – Meet Just Geen

    02:25 – How her fitness journey started

    04:27 – Her meal prep hustle

    07:12 – Creating Beats & Bands

    13:11 – Partnering with Gymshark

    20:02 – Her vision for a global fitness festival

    32:50 – Understanding female fitness cycles

    36:53 – How social media affects fitness goals

    45:50 – Shot Stopper: Powerful Black Women

    01:09:03 – Geen’s tips for beginners

    01:12:55 – Wrap up + socials

    🔗 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS:

    📍 YouTube: @TheChampAndContenderPodcast

    📍 Instagram: @champandcontender

    📍 TikTok: @champandcontender

    📍 Twitter / X: @ChampContender

    📍 Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The Champ & Contender Podcast

    📍 Guest: @just_geen

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 32 mins
  • EP20 Unleashing ‘The Instigator’ — Interview with Boxer Sonny Hardy
    May 20 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on the Champion Contender Podcast as they sit down with rising British boxing talent, Sonny “The Instigator” Hardy 🔥 From his roots at Charlton Boxing Club to training with former world title challenger Kevin Mitchell, Sonny shares his journey from amateur standout to professional fighter. He opens up about sparring elite champions like Joe Cordina, his grueling training sessions, and the family dynamics that shaped his fighting spirit 🧬 We also explore: His dreams of title fights in the lightweight division The West Ham connection 🏟️⚒️ The reality of selling tickets as a rising pro Insights into fighting style, rivals, and respect in the sport * A fun round of "Shot Stopper" where Sonny picks who he’d fight, duck, or stop 🧠🎯 Whether you're a fan of UK boxing, looking for under-the-radar prospects, or just love a great story — this episode’s a knockout 👊

    ⏱️ Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome to the Champion Contender Podcast

    00:47 – Introducing Sonny 'The Instigator' Hardy

    02:40 – Training Under Kevin Mitchell

    04:30 – Transition from Amateur to Professional

    06:01 – Father-Son Dynamics in Boxing

    09:24 – Influences and Fighting Style

    14:45 – Sparring with Joe Cordina

    18:54 – Toughest Fights and Future Aspirations

    23:23 – The Challenges of Selling Tickets

    27:42 – Selling Out the Stadium: A West Ham Dream

    28:14 – Loyalty and Rivalries in the West Ham Fanbase

    29:36 – The Amateur to Pro Journey

    30:31 – Training & Mentorship with Charlie Blake

    31:19 – Turning Pro: The Leap of Faith

    32:20 – Standing Out in the Lightweight Division

    33:58 – Dream Fights & Mutual Respect

    35:32 – “Shot Stopper” Game: Who Gets Stopped?

    45:22 – Future Plans: Titles and Moving Weight

    48:06 – Advice for Young Boxers 💬

    50:17 – West Ham x Boxing: The Local Bond

    52:05 – Wrap-Up with Sonny Hardy

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • EP19 Coaching Legends: In Conversation with Mark Tibbs
    May 13 2025

    In this powerful episode, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with the one and only Mark Tibbs — legendary boxing coach and son of the great Jimmy Tibbs. Mark takes us through his incredible journey, from his roots as an amateur boxer to becoming one of the most respected trainers in the game. He opens up about working with elite fighters like Dillian Whyte, Billy Joe Saunders, Johnny Fisher, and Richard Riakporhe, and breaks down what it truly takes to develop a champion. Expect wisdom, behind-the-scenes stories, and an honest look at the challenges of modern boxing. Plus, Mark plays a fun segment evaluating some of the greatest boxing coaches of all time 🧠🔥 💼 This episode is proudly sponsored by Blackburn & Co.

    🕰️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Champion Contender Podcast 00:30 – Introducing Boxing Coach Mark Tibbs

    00:53 – Mark’s Early Boxing Journey

    02:51 – Transition to Professional Boxing

    08:24 – Coaching Career & Working with Billy Joe Saunders

    10:01 – Lessons from Father Jimmy Tibbs

    16:40 – Training Philosophy & Fighter Development

    19:38 – Challenges and Rewards of Coaching

    22:42 – Training Heavyweights vs. Lightweights

    23:33 – Hardest Workers in the Gym

    25:30 – Upcoming Talents & Future Prospects

    31:08 – Sponsored by Blackburn & Co. 💼

    32:32 – Training Techniques & Injury Management

    40:09 – Introduction to Tommy Fletcher

    40:44 – Training with Billy Joe Saunders

    41:20 – Discovering Tommy Fletcher

    42:33 – Tommy Fletcher’s Sparring Sessions

    45:48 – Richard Riakporhe's Journey

    47:49 – Preparing Riakporhe for Big Fights

    01:02:07 – Women’s Boxing & Training Ebony Bridges

    01:06:19 – Coaching Elle Brooke

    01:12:41 – Memorable Fights & Key Insights

    01:13:30 – Public Workout & Faith Ordway Fight

    01:15:28 – Misfits Boxing & Coaching Challenges

    01:21:59 – Coaching King Kenny & Training Camps

    01:24:56 – Evaluating Boxing Legends & Coach Rankings

    01:38:16 – Faith and Coaching Philosophy

    01:40:31 – Final Thoughts and Farewell

    📲 Follow Champion Contender Podcast:

    🎙️ YouTube: @TheChampAndContenderPodcast

    📸 Instagram: @champandcontenderpodcast

    📱 TikTok: @champandcontenderpodcast

    🐦 Twitter/X: @champcontender

    📩 Business Enquiries: champandcontenderpodcast@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 42 mins
  • EP18: It's not just you doing the sentence, it's your family too.
    May 6 2025

    Nicky Forcer Talks Athletics 🏃‍♂️, Grime 🎤, Prison ⛓️, and Redemption ✨ | The Champ & Contender Podcast

    Welcome to The Champ & Contender Podcast 🎙️ — your go-to spot for raw, real conversations with inspiring figures from all walks of life. In this episode, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with the multifaceted Nicky Forcer (aka Nicholas Thomas), who shares his powerful story of athletics, grime music, prison time, bodybuilding transformation, and spiritual redemption. From growing up in East London to representing both Great Britain 🇬🇧 and Jamaica 🇯🇲 in triple jump, Nicky opens up about the ups and downs of his journey. He reflects on his time in UK athletics, his rise in the grime scene, the harsh realities of prison life, and how he rebuilt himself through fitness, mental health work, and a strong relationship with God. He’s now using his experiences to mentor young people, offering personal training and guidance rooted in faith and discipline. Whether you're into British athletics, UK rap culture, bodybuilding motivation, or faith-based redemption stories, this episode delivers it all. 💡 Expect laughter, honest truths, and unfiltered gems that will move and motivate you.

    📌 Timestamps:

    ⏱️ 00:00 – Intro to the Champ & Contender Podcast | UK Motivational Podcast 👶

    00:50 – Nicky Forcer’s Early Life in East London | Childhood & Community 01:40 – Breaking into UK Athletics | Competing for GB & Jamaica ⚡

    03:08 – Mental Toughness in Elite Sport | Overcoming Injury & Setbacks 🎵 13:21 – Grime Music Beginnings | East London’s Underground Scene 🔥 14:27 – Producing Grime Tracks | Cultural Impact & Creative Process 💭 15:33 – Reflections on Grime’s Evolution & Urban Music Culture 🚔

    27:52 – Life in Prison | Prison Reform & Criminal Justice in the UK 🧠

    30:26 – Mental Health in Prison | Surviving Solitary & Staying Sane 🏋️

    30:54 – Working Out Behind Bars | Prison Fitness & Motivation 💪

    32:42 – Post-Prison Bodybuilding Transformation | Rebuilding Physically 🥗 33:09 – Diet and Fitness Tips | Nutrition for Muscle Gain 🏋️‍♂️

    36:53 – The Truth About Bodybuilding | Steroids, Dedication & Balance 🙏 43:34 – Finding Faith | Christianity, Purpose & Forgiveness ⛪

    50:24 – Faith in Daily Life | Discipline, Prayer & Spiritual Growth 🗣️

    52:47 – Advice for the Youth | Staying Focused & Avoiding Traps 🎯

    54:48 – Future Goals | Mentorship, Coaching & Community Uplift 👋

    58:15 – Outro & Where to Follow Nicky Forcer

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min