Endorsements Changing Lives Outside the Octagon
“Knowing very little about the sport of Mixed Martial Arts before, this book provided me with an insider’s view of the politics and challenges of a brutal profession, and provided a window into the lives of those who have found discipline, structure, and honor in it. It gave me a glimpse into the gentler side of these fighting giants. I was especially impressed with the varied ways each of these warriors have found to be generous contributors in their community.”
“The journey for Suzette as a mom and her son who became a world champion UFC fighter is amazing. The “chance” meeting Dominick had with Coach Edwards was life changing. His unique talent was developed through his wrestling career—God works through these providential meetings! I felt the most impactful chapter of the book was about Jansen. He grew in his skills in the Philippines and later became a U.S. citizen. After becoming a committed Christian, he launched Higher Ground which gives at risk youth a chance to change course and succeed in life. So now the gift he was given keeps on giving.”
“This book gives such an in-depth look and understanding of a very demanding sport and stories of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the sport. It’s really more of a book on human interests, perseverance and love. My favorite chapter is about Thom because he has used his platform for kids and family. Under really hard circumstances, he is dedicated to giving back thru MMA and his excellence. The most impactful aspect of the book is that these men and women all have a quality world-view. Hard work, faith and giving back, loyalty and honor resound thru the pages of your book.”
“I love that Broken Before Battle shows fighters outside of the cage, when their story is not being told in an effort to promote and sell a fight. It’s refreshing to learn about the different paths the different fighters took to MMA. I enjoyed Phil’s story most because due to his fame, I had formed an impression of him that was not correct. However, reading that he considers himself an introvert and shy while working to overcome academic disadvantages was surprising. All of them take part in giving back and helping others less fortunate, but you won’t hear about that on “countdown” shows. More importantly, this shows their passion about martial arts and helping their fellow person.”
“This book was a refreshing look at competitive MMA. I really enjoyed discovering how much we all have in common with these fighters. Each fighter had their own life struggles and through fighting, they discovered themselves, their path, and purpose in life. I was touched by the fact that all of them, in spite of the typically short career, gave back so much to others. My favorite chapter was about Jansen; because like all of us, he had his problems that one might even refer to as his demons. Through martial arts, he learned to master them and while others teach you to downplay or ignore those things that challenge you, he teaches young people how to turn those challenges into something positive.”
“Suzette worked hard and dug deep to get to the “heart” of these men and their stories. We get to the meat of these fighters experiences and why they do what they do…..some so flawed as people, some come from very flawed situations, and yet, they prevail….stories of bad decisions, wicked hard upbringings, and redemption. Our justice system and school systems would do well to see that some kids can be saved given the right solutions to redirect their wayward ways. I absolutely love the quote, “We are all broken, yet we don’t need to be fixed, but we need to grow instead…all seeds need to break in order to grow,” by Jansen. I greatly admire the fact that Higher Ground uses their knowledge through experience to use MMA as a PE elective, brilliant!”