Big Hype Podcast with Jonathan Millard

Jonathan Millard
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The Big Hype Podcast, hosted by Jonathan Millard, is a weekly show launched in 2024 that explores the world of combat sports, including boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Each episode features interviews with athletes and figures from these sports, offering listeners insight into their journeys, challenges, and future aspirations. Jonathan Millard, a licensed Master of Ceremonies and former radio presenter, brings his expertise in engaging with athletes and providing in-depth conversations on topics like weight management, career transitions, and overcoming obstacles. Notable guests have included rising stars like Sasha Booker and seasoned professionals discussing their personal and professional growth.​ You can listen to episodes on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

  1. Nicola Hopewell: From Fitness Enthusiast to Flyweight Champion

    8H AGO

    Nicola Hopewell: From Fitness Enthusiast to Flyweight Champion

    Send us a text In this episode of the Big Hype Podcast, host Jonathan Millard sits down with the reigning Flyweight Champion, Nicola Hopewell. Nicola's story is one of incredible transformation—starting as a fitness enthusiast who just wanted to get in shape, she evolved into a dominant force in professional women's boxing. We dive deep into her transition from the amateur ranks to the professional scene, the mental grit required to bounce back from losses, and the emotional journey of capturing the Commonwealth and IBO titles. Whether you are an aspiring athlete or a fan of the sweet science, Nicola's insights on training, investment in self, and championship mindset are a must-watch. ✨ Key Takeaways: The Accidental Boxer: How Nicola went from a fitness class to a stoppage victory in her first amateur fight.The Pro Transition: The reality of media, promotion, and the step up in competition when turning professional.Championship Mindset: Why Nicola believes losses are valuable lessons and how she prepared mentally to win the IBO title.The Future: Nicola's goals for collecting more belts and her passion for mentoring the next generation of fighters.🕒 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Nicola Hopewell  01:09 Journey into Boxing: From Fitness to Competition  04:13 The Transition from Amateur to Professional Boxing  08:47 First Professional Fight: Expectations and Reality  12:04 Challenges of Professional Boxing: Media and Promotion  14:42 Facing Adversity: The Commonwealth Title Fight  17:21 Bouncing Back: Learning from Losses  19:47 Defending the Title: Pressure and Preparation  21:35 Training Camp: A Day in the Life of a Boxer  23:50 Building a Supportive Team  24:18 Preparing for the Championship Fight  25:50 Mental Preparation and Visualization Techniques  27:44 Learning from Past Experiences  28:24 Training Challenges and Sparring Dynamics  30:06 The Emotional Victory of Winning the Title  31:32 Transitioning to a New Management Team  34:04 Future Aspirations and Goals  36:29 Acknowledging Supporters and Sponsors  38:29 Life After Boxing and Future Plans  38:43 The Final Round: Quickfire Questions 🔗 Connect with the Show: Subscribe to Big Hype Podcast: [Link]Follow Nicola Hopewell: [Link]Follow Jonathan Millard: [Link]🏷️ Keywords: #Boxing #NicolaHopewell #WomensBoxing #ProBoxing #CommonwealthChampion #IBOTitle #BoxingTraining #SportsMotivation #BigHypePodcast #BoxingJourney #AthleteMindset HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    45 min
  2. Billy Pickle: Balancing Bricks and Belts...

    JAN 21

    Billy Pickle: Balancing Bricks and Belts...

    Send us a text In this episode of the Big Hype podcast, host Jonathan Millard interviews professional boxer Billy Pickles, who shares his journey from amateur boxing to the professional scene. Billy discusses his early involvement in boxing, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned from tough fights. He reflects on his recent achievements, including a championship win, and outlines his aspirations for the future. The conversation also touches on life outside the ring and the dedication required to succeed in boxing. HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    27 min
  3. Joey Knight: The Unconventional Path from Football to Boxing

    11/06/2025

    Joey Knight: The Unconventional Path from Football to Boxing

    Send us a text In this episode of the Big Hype podcast, host Jonathan Millard speaks with Misfit's Boxer Joey Knight, a professional boxer and pundit, about his unconventional journey into boxing, his experiences in the sport, and his involvement with influencer Boxing. Joey shares insights into his early life, the challenges he faced, and how personal experiences shaped his boxing career. The conversation also touches on his football background, notable fights, and the future of his boxing career, concluding with rapid-fire questions that reveal his preferences and thoughts on the sport. HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    41 min
  4. Cory Sagar: The Rise of Sagar: A Boxing Journey

    10/07/2025

    Cory Sagar: The Rise of Sagar: A Boxing Journey

    Send us a text In this episode, Jonathan Millard interviews Cory Sagar, a young professional boxer, about his journey in the sport. Cory shares insights into his family legacy in boxing, his transition from amateur to professional, and the rigorous training regimen he follows. He discusses the financial support he receives, his experiences in the ring, and his aspirations for the future, including his desire to give back to the community. The conversation also touches on the challenges and learning experiences he has faced in his early fights, as well as his goals for becoming a successful boxer. HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    25 min
  5. James 'The Dragon' Turner: From Martial Arts Movies to Kickboxing Champion

    09/23/2025

    James 'The Dragon' Turner: From Martial Arts Movies to Kickboxing Champion

    Send us a text In this engaging conversation, James Turner shares his journey through the world of combat sports, detailing his early influences from martial arts movies, his transition to kickboxing, and the challenges he faced in securing fights. He emphasises the importance of mental resilience, structured training, and the significance of his recent Hall of Fame induction. James reflects on his experiences leading up to a world title fight and his aspirations for the future, showcasing his dedication to the sport and his commitment to being a positive example for others. In this engaging conversation, James Turner shares his journey from kickboxing champion to aspiring actor in martial arts films. He discusses the importance of moderation in lifestyle choices, the influence of Bruce Lee on his career, and the challenges of transitioning from a fighter to an actor. Turner emphasises the significance of respect in the martial arts community and the dedication required to succeed in kickboxing and filmmaking. He also reflects on his future aspirations and the importance of passion and integrity in pursuing one's career. 00:00 Introduction to James Turner and His Journey 02:40 The Roots of Martial Arts Passion 05:30 Transitioning to Kickboxing 08:09 Early Competitive Experiences 10:53 The Path to Professional Kickboxing 13:51 Navigating Challenges in the Sport 16:32 Recent Developments and Future Aspirations 20:50 The Turning Point: Embracing New Opportunities 23:51 Navigating the Wilderness Years: Challenges and Resilience 26:38 The Road to the World Title: Preparation and Strategy 36:43 The World Championship Fight: Overcoming Adversity 39:00 Recognition and Legacy: Hall of Fame Induction 43:07 Navigating Social Norms and Personal Choices 45:02 Moderation and Balance in Lifestyle Choices 46:59 The Challenges of Maintaining Nutrition on the Go 48:46 The Journey into Authorship and Film 52:59 Transitioning from Fighter to Actor 57:30 The Art of Choreography in Film vs. Real Fighting 01:03:02 Respecting the Legacy of Martial Arts Icons 01:06:49 Defining Success in Film and Combat Sports 01:10:39 Foundations of Film and Martial Arts 01:13:01 Pursuing Passion in Film and Martial Arts 01:14:33 Future Aspirations and Legacy 01:17:27 Rapid Fire: Insights from a Champion 01:30:19 The Fight of the Titans: AJ vs. Fury HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    1h 36m
  6. Jack 'the Punk Kid' Hughes: How Boxing Changed My Life - From Disdain to Passion Overcoming Anxiety

    09/16/2025

    Jack 'the Punk Kid' Hughes: How Boxing Changed My Life - From Disdain to Passion Overcoming Anxiety

    Send us a text In this episode, Jonathan Millard interviews professional boxer Jack Hughes, who shares his unique journey into boxing, overcoming personal challenges, and navigating the complexities of a boxing career. Jack discusses his late start in the sport, the impact of boxing on his mental health, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. He reflects on his experiences in the ring, the importance of good management, and his aspirations for the future, including a desire to fight internationally. The conversation also touches on the realities of being a professional boxer and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Hating Boxing to Loving It 02:46 Overcoming Anxiety: How Boxing Changed My Life 05:33 Transitioning from Amateur to Professional Boxing 08:30 The Learning Curve: Early Professional Fights 11:19 Finding My Rhythm: A Run of Wins 13:55 The Fight for Titles: Challenges and Triumphs 16:48 The Ups and Downs: Managing a Boxing Career 19:44 Reflections on the Journey: Lessons Learned 23:19 The Fight Management Dilemma 26:06 Weight Class Confusion and Its Consequences 29:58 Navigating Career Challenges and Future Aspirations HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    46 min
  7. Cillian Mills: From Kickboxing to Pro Boxing

    09/09/2025

    Cillian Mills: From Kickboxing to Pro Boxing

    Send us a text In this episode, Jonathan Millard interviews professional boxer Cillian Mills, who shares his journey from kickboxing to boxing, his experiences in amateur and professional boxing, and his upcoming pro debut. Cillian discusses the importance of training, the atmosphere of boxing events, and his aspirations for the future, including potential opportunities beyond the ring. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of boxing and the significance of building a personal brand in the sport. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cillian Mills 02:56 Cillian's Journey into Boxing 05:37 Transitioning from Amateur to Professional Boxing 08:24 Preparing for the Pro Debut 11:15 The Importance of Atmosphere in Boxing 14:04 Training Camp Insights 17:04 Future Aspirations in Boxing 19:49 Exploring Opportunities Beyond Boxing 22:33 Rapid Fire Questions with Cillian Mills HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    32 min
  8. Sam Whitehead: The Turning Point - How Injury Inspired The Journey From Troubled Youth to a Boxing Comeback to Professional Boxer

    09/02/2025

    Sam Whitehead: The Turning Point - How Injury Inspired The Journey From Troubled Youth to a Boxing Comeback to Professional Boxer

    Send us a text In this episode, Sam Whitehead shares his journey from a troubled youth to a dedicated professional boxer. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him back to the sport after a serious injury, his experiences in amateur boxing, and the transition to professional fights. Sam reflects on the challenges he faced in his early professional career, the lessons learned from each fight, and his aspirations for the future, including the desire to compete for titles. He emphasises the importance of hard work, dedication, and the support of his family and trainers in achieving his goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Boxing Journey 02:42 Transition from Amateur to Professional Boxing 05:30 Life-Altering Accident and Its Impact 08:05 First Steps Back into Boxing 10:45 Debut Fight Experience 13:25 Reflections on Early Professional Fights 16:20 Learning from Defeat 17:17 Weight Class Dynamics 18:13 Analyzing Past Fights 19:56 Preparing for Upcoming Challenges 21:50 Aiming for Titles 23:28 Opportunities and Future Aspirations 25:17 Reflections on Career and Future Plans 27:04 Quickfire Round: Preferences in Boxing HYPE Energy Drinks UK Support the show Thanks for tuning in to the Big Hype Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favourite podcast platform. And remember, Believe the hype, it's time to fight. Follow us on @bighypepodcast.

    33 min
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About

The Big Hype Podcast, hosted by Jonathan Millard, is a weekly show launched in 2024 that explores the world of combat sports, including boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and wrestling. Each episode features interviews with athletes and figures from these sports, offering listeners insight into their journeys, challenges, and future aspirations. Jonathan Millard, a licensed Master of Ceremonies and former radio presenter, brings his expertise in engaging with athletes and providing in-depth conversations on topics like weight management, career transitions, and overcoming obstacles. Notable guests have included rising stars like Sasha Booker and seasoned professionals discussing their personal and professional growth.​ You can listen to episodes on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

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