

61. Knocked Down, Never Knocked Out, Rebuilding Body & Mind - Chris Leben
Jul 23, 2025
Chris Leben, a former UFC middleweight contender and now a gym owner in San Diego, shares his inspiring journey from addiction to recovery. He recounts his tumultuous childhood and the pivotal moments that led him to combat sports. Leben discusses utilizing Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy for improved recovery and sleep during his fight career. He also tackles the pros and cons of traditional versus infrared saunas and emphasizes the importance of listening to your body in recovery, all while helping others overcome similar challenges.
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From Chaos to Fighting
- Chris Leben grew up in a chaotic environment with addiction and bullying but turned to fighting for respect and purpose.
- Wrestling and boxing gave him a path out, culminating in training with world champions Randy Couture and Matt Lindland.
Fighting as Salvation
- Fighting saved Chris Leben's life by forcing sobriety and giving him purpose.
- He sought respect to prove he wasn't destined to fail like his family background.
Raw Reality of Ultimate Fighter
- Chris was unprepared for The Ultimate Fighter reality show's intensity, making it raw and relatable.
- His youthful drinking habits reflected his environment, which fans connected with.