🔥 What does it really take to build one of the best MMA gyms in the world and shape world champions from the ground up?
In this inspiring episode of Coffee Time with Carlos Machado, Master Carlos welcomes Sayif Saud, founder and head coach of Fortis MMA in Dallas, Texas. Together they explore how a young martial artist from Indiana became one of the most respected coaches in the UFC.
Sayif began training judo at age three, winning his first state title before kindergarten. He went on to study karate, bodybuilding, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu before competing in MMA and retiring undefeated. His true calling came when he began coaching.
That passion led to the birth of Fortis MMA, a gym that quickly rose to international prominence. Today, Fortis MMA is home to elite fighters including Brandon Moreno, Jeff Neal, Macy Chiasson, and Ryan Spann. Under Sayif’s leadership, the team has earned more Contender Series wins than any other gym and continues to produce world-class athletes.
In this conversation, Sayif and Carlos talk about hard lessons, loyalty, the mental game of fighting, and the deeper meaning behind martial arts. Sayif shares his philosophy of truth, consistency, and love as the foundation of real coaching.
This episode goes far beyond fighting. It is about leadership, vision, and the courage to build something that endures.
🥋 About Sayif Saud
Sayif Saud (@sayifsaud) is one of the most respected MMA coaches in the world and the founder of @fortis_mma
A lifelong martial artist, Sayif competed in judo, karate, and professional MMA before focusing on coaching. His fighters are known for discipline, toughness, and unity. His philosophy combines truth, accountability, and genuine care.
🎙️ About Coffee Time with Carlos Machado
Hosted by Master Carlos Machado, pioneer of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the United States, Coffee Time is a podcast where deep stories unfold through real conversations. Each episode explores discipline, humor, mentorship, and the journey toward mastery.
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Carlos welcomes Sayif Saud
05:30 Early martial arts beginnings
10:40 The transition to MMA
18:00 Founding Fortis MMA
25:10 Coaching world champions
39:00 The truth about durability
50:45 Balancing faith, family, and business
1:05:00 Loyalty and warrior culture
1:17:30 The future of Fortis MMA
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📸 Sayif Saud: https://www.instagram.com/sayifsaud/
📸 Fortis MMA: https://www.instagram.com/fortis_mma/
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Sayif Saud interview, Fortis MMA, Fortis MMA Dallas, Coffee Time with Carlos Machado, Brandon Moreno coach, UFC coaches 2025, MMA mindset, martial arts discipline, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu podcast, leadership through martial arts, UFC team building, Fortis MMA fighters, Sayif Saud Fortis MMA, UFC champions, mindset training, warrior culture, Carlos Machado podcast
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