FP #25: From Prison Guard to Coach: True Stories from the Mat

Show notes

In this episode of the Fight Podcast, Sharir visits Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal, to sit down with his good friend and ICCS Portugal director, Armando. Together, they explore Armando’s journey from decades of martial arts experience—including karate, kickboxing, and especially Muay Thai—to becoming a respected coach and prison guard with real-life fighting experience. The two share stories about the old-school atmosphere in Armando’s gym, training beneath a soccer stadium, and the deep family spirit that defines their community.

They dig into the importance of real, hard sparring for effective self-defense, calling out the dangers of martial arts instructors who never test their skills under pressure. Armando explains how his background—both on the streets and as a prison guard—shaped his philosophy: fighting is not for everyone, and real preparation comes from realistic, sometimes brutal, training. The conversation covers the challenges of coaching competitors, the politics of fight events, mental preparation, and the life lessons learned through losing and coming back stronger. The episode is filled with stories about humility, dedication, and the power of a true martial arts family.