EP004 - Rory O'Keeffe & Jason Vorster

In our fourth episode Kyle catches up with MMA fighter Rory O’Keeffe and Shuriken Head Coach + SFS Promoter Jason Vorster. We discuss Rory's recent transition to the pro league and his debut fight on UFC Fight Pass on the 20th of April. Jason shares his insights into organising New Zealand’s top MMA event, and the importance of matchmaking.  We also delve into their personal lives, revealing the supportive community and future aspirations in the sport.

MMA is the fastest growing sport in the world with New Zealand taking a leading position.

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With your host Kyle O'Reilly

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Transcript

00:00:00:02 - 00:00:16:20
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"Welcome to the Here We Are show. Today, we're thrilled to have MMA stars Jason Vo and Rory O'Keefe with us."

00:00:30:12 - 00:00:42:04
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"Let's dive into Jason's notable appearance on UFC Fight Pass and discuss Rory's exciting pro debut."

00:00:54:11 - 00:01:20:02
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"On today's show, we're talking UFC Fight Pass highlights, Rory's debut, and debating whether sharks can fly out of water."

00:03:00:18 - 00:03:17:16
Speaker 3
"We've worked hard for three years to bring the promotion here, expanding into New Zealand and covering all bases in this region."

00:03:21:07 - 00:03:42:01
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"Let’s discuss the undercard and main card for the upcoming Shuriken Flight series—what are the highlights for you?"

00:04:02:14 - 00:04:20:18
Speaker 3
"We have promising fighters like Jaden Brown and Daniel Bull, who represent the next generation of Kiwi fighters."

00:04:20:22 - 00:04:43:04
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"The Ethan Brockett fight is intriguing. He's a character and started doing commentary post-fight. What kind of show do you expect?"

00:05:20:13 - 00:05:44:16
Speaker 4
"Shuriken is home for me. I’ve fought here before, and now making a pro debut on UFC Fight Pass is a big step up."

00:06:01:01 - 00:06:25:12
Speaker 1: Kyle O'Reilly
"You're giving Rory this big opportunity. How important is it to boost not just established fighters but newcomers too?"

00:06:56:05 - 00:07:15:09
Speaker 3
"It's about building the sport's longevity, working with gyms and coaches, and providing fighters with opportunities."

00:07:34:21 - 00:07:55:17
Speaker 3
"Matchmaking is crucial. We avoid mismatches, ensuring exciting and fair fights that both the audience and fighters deserve."

00:08:47:02 - 00:09:10:11
Speaker 3
"Logan is back after focusing on his family. He's been managing our boxing programs and preparing for his return to professional fighting."

00:12:44:12 - 00:13:16:05
Speaker 3
"Our goal is to build fighters' careers, ensuring they can make a living from the sport and improve their skills through our events."

00:14:09:18 - 00:14:32:02
Speaker 3
"We plan to maintain the quality of our four annual shows, focusing on quality rather than quantity to ensure the best for fighters and fans."

00:18:15:07 - 00:18:51:13
Speaker 3
"Our gym culture is welcoming to all, fostering a supportive community that's integral to our success."

00:20:19:12 - 00:20:46:17
Speaker 3
"I moved from South Africa to New Zealand in 2006 for better opportunities and safety, inspired by the community and environment here."

00:23:09:20 - 00:23:24:16
Speaker 4
"I want to be remembered as a showman. My fights are not just about the sport but also about entertaining the crowd."

00:23:58:23 - 00:24:09:12
Speaker 3
"My aim is to be a good father and a good leader, ensuring passion and respect in all my endeavors."